Dental discount card programs are an alternative to dental insurance that are gaining popularity in the oral health industry. Unlike a dental insurance plan, a dental discount card provides just that—a discount. None of the money spent on the card will be recouped in the form of payouts from the discount program.
So, the most important criteria to use when determining whether to buy a dental discount card is how much it will save you during the period of time that it is active. Some cards require a month to month fee and some cards are good for a year with a one-time payment.
The first step then in finding a dental discount program that is right for you is to call or visit your preferred dentist’s office. The office should be able to tell you what dental discount programs they participate in and what the savings will be per procedure.
Most dental discount programs costs between $50 and $100 per year per person covered. If the discount only applies to routine care, such as cleanings, or if you don’t anticipate having major dental work done in that year, the card may be a waste of your money. Determine how much money is in your budget for dental care in the time period the card is valid.
However, if the discount program applies to major dental work including fillings, root canals, bridges and extractions, the cost of the card may be recouped in just one visit to your family dentist.
