Why Do Patients Avoid Going to the Dentist?
The No. 1 reason patients avoid going to the dentist is cost. An estimated 76.5 million adults in the United States don’t have dental insurance.
Can I Go to the Dentist If I Don’t Have Dental Insurance?
Absolutely. A lot of people think they need dental insurance to go to the dentist. The truth is that you don’t. When it comes to dentistry, preventive care is extremely affordable…and the best way to catch dental problems early.
To help patients receive the dental care that they deserve, many dental offices are now offering membership plans to patients without dental insurance.
What is a Membership Plan?
A membership plan is not dental insurance, but rather a discount plan allowing you access to discounted dental services. It is unique to the dental office offering it and cannot be transferred between different dental offices. It cannot be combined with dental insurance.
How Does a Membership Plan Work?
While each membership plan is unique to the office that offers it, most plans work the same way. For an annual membership fee, the plan covers the following services each plan year, at no additional charge:
- Two cleanings
- Two exams
- One set of X-rays
- One fluoride treatment
- Oral cancer screening
You receive a discount on other dental treatments, like fillings, crowns, extractions, etc. The discount varies from office to office, but is usually between 10% and 15%.
There are no contracts, and the plan renews on your anniversary date.
Are There Any Limitations to Membership Plans?
No. With membership plans there are no limitations on any services covered. Also, there are no annoying deductibles or restrictive yearly premiums. And, unlike dental insurance, there are no pre-existing conditions or missing tooth clauses either.
Who Are Membership Plans For?
Membership plans are for:
- Anyone without dental coverage
- Individuals and families
- Retirees
- Self-employed individuals
- Small businesses
Membership plans are an extremely cost-effective option for small businesses that cannot afford to provide dental insurance to their employees. They can partner with dental offices, purchasing dental membership plans for their employees as a dental benefit, in lieu of dental insurance.
How Do I Know If My Dentist Offers a Membership Plan?
In the day and age of increasing cost of labor and supplies, lowering insurance reimbursements and restrictions placed by insurance companies on services that can be rendered, more dentists are opting to provide membership plans for their patients, rather than being in contract with insurance companies. Patients are also realizing that the expensive monthly premiums they pay for dental insurance don’t always cover the services they need, so some are opting not to buy dental insurance. If you are wondering whether your dentist offers a membership plan, just ask. Most of the time, the answer will be yes.
If the cost of dental care is holding you back from scheduling a visit, Seva Dental’s in-office membership plan may be the answer. Find out more, at sevadental.com or 937-310-2555.
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