If you have access to dental insurance, it's a good idea to elect coverage - you never know what your dental needs will be, and coverage can save you thousands of dollars. But if you cannot get dental coverage through work, don't despair - there are other options available to you.
If your employer does not offer dental coverage, you might be able to buy an individual dental insurance policy. However, there is no guarantee that the insurance company will offer you a policy - if you have made a large number of claims in the past, you can be denied. Furthermore, the premiums charged can be expensive.
A number of companies offer dental discount plans. For a monthly or annual fee, you get access to a network of dentists who will work for discounted rates. There are no guarantees that your dentist will provide services for the discounted rate for the entire term of your plan membership. Before joining a dental discount plan, check with your dentist to make sure he or she is a member. In fact, you may want to talk with your dentist about other financing arrangements. Many dentists are willing to work with your financial constraints even if you do not sign up for a discount plan - some offer their own financing arrangements and/or are willing to help you find a way to pay for your treatment.
