Dental and Vision Insurance

Dental and vision, with or without a health plan

Most medical plans don't cover adult dental or vision, so these are separate policies. I can set them up on their own or alongside your health plan, for a household or a small business. My post on why medical plans leave them out has the details.

Dental insurance

What it covers

• Preventive care such as cleanings and X-rays, often covered in full
• Basic work such as fillings and root canals
• Major work like crowns and dentures
• Braces and aligners, on some plans

Plan options

• PPO plans, with the widest choice of dentist
• HMO or DHMO plans, which cost less and keep you in a network
• Discount plans, which lower prices but aren't insurance

Vision insurance

What it covers

• A yearly eye exam
• Frames and lenses, up to the plan's allowance
• Contacts, as an allowance or a yearly supply
• Discounts on LASIK, on some plans

Plan features

• Low monthly premiums
• A choice of eye doctors and stores
• No waiting period for exams
• Options to upgrade your lenses

For individuals and families

You can buy these on their own, or add them when you set up your health plan.

For small businesses

Adding dental and vision to a group plan is one of the simpler ways to round out your benefits.

Why it's worth having

• Cleanings and eye exams are usually covered, so small problems get caught early. Your teeth and eyes affect the rest of your health too.
• A plan turns surprise dental bills into a cost you can plan for