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Wisconsin has a high percentage of residents who don't have dental insurance, but it's essential to have a plan in place to avoid costly dental bills.
Dental insurance in Wisconsin can be expensive, with premiums ranging from $20 to $50 per month for an individual plan.
Many Wisconsinites rely on employer-sponsored dental insurance, but others may need to purchase a plan on their own or explore alternative options.
In Wisconsin, dental insurance plans must cover essential services such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions, according to state law.
Types of Plans
Wisconsin residents have several dental insurance options to choose from.
DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) plans are a popular choice, offering a cost-effective option with lower premiums.
You'll need to use dentists within the plan's provider network, which could be convenient if your dentist is already in-network.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans, on the other hand, offer more flexibility and choice, but come with higher premiums.
This type of plan allows you to pick a dentist you prefer and see specialists without needing a referral.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, a DHMO plan might be the way to go.
However, if you value having more control over your dental care, a PPO plan could be the better choice.
Coverage and Costs
Dental insurance plans in Wisconsin cover a range of treatments, including preventative exams, routine teeth cleaning, fillings, and X-rays.
The cost of dental insurance in Wisconsin varies, with premiums ranging from $9 to $52 per month for adults purchasing stand-alone coverage through the exchange. The average cost of dental insurance is $32 per month or about $378 per year.
However, it's essential to note that every dental insurance plan has a limit on what it will pay out each year, and for many people, that amount is low, typically under $1,500.
Coverage Value
Choosing a comprehensive dental plan can save you money in the long run.
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Those without dental coverage are less likely to visit the dentist regularly, resulting in worsening of conditions that could have been prevented.
Out-of-pocket costs for dental treatment can exceed hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
Regular dental visits can prevent costly problems and save you money in the long run.
Dental plans with high coverage, like those offered by Momentum, can provide exceptional value at affordable rates.
Cost
Cost is a significant factor to consider when it comes to dental insurance. In Wisconsin, the average cost of dental insurance is $32 per month or about $378 per year.
You can expect to pay anywhere from $9 to $52 per month for stand-alone dental coverage through the exchange, depending on the plan and your location.
Your final price will be determined by your choice of dental benefits, tobacco usage, the number of people covered on your policy, and location.
Dental discount plans are an alternative option, offering discounted rates at participating dentists, but they are not insurance.
Annual Maximums Limitations
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Every dental insurance plan has a limit on what it will pay out each year, and for many people, that amount is low.
If your plan has a yearly cap of less than $1,500, you're responsible for all costs over $1,500.
It's easy to reach your maximum if you require a crown or root canal surgery.
There may also be waiting periods for specific treatments depending on the plan you choose.
What is Excluded
Dental insurance in Wisconsin doesn't cover aesthetic dentistry, which is the treatment of teeth for cosmetic purposes.
Teeth whitening and veneers are examples of esthetic procedures that improve a person's appearance rather than replacing damaged teeth.
Cosmetic treatments are never covered by insurance because they are not considered "medically required".
What Does Cover?
Wisconsin's dental insurance plans cover preventative exams, routine teeth cleaning, fillings, and X-rays.
Preventative exams are a crucial part of maintaining good oral health, and most dental insurance plans cover them.
Routine teeth cleaning is also covered, which helps remove plaque and tartar that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Fillings are covered, which is great news for anyone who's had a cavity or two.
X-rays are also covered, which help dentists detect any underlying issues with your teeth or jaw.
Dental insurance policies may also include periodontics, endodontics, dentures, bridges, root canals, and other surgical treatments.
These additional treatments can be a lifesaver for people with more complex dental issues.
Make sure to compare the coverage of the plan you’re considering so that you know what to expect in terms of out-of-pocket costs.
Insurance Options
There are several insurance options available for dental coverage in Wisconsin. You can purchase stand-alone individual/family dental coverage through the health insurance marketplace in Wisconsin.
Nine insurers offer these plans, including Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Chorus Community Health Plans, and Delta Dental of Wisconsin, Inc. These plans can be purchased through HealthCare.gov during open enrollment or during a special enrollment period triggered by a qualifying life event.
If you prefer a more cost-effective option, consider a Dental HMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) plan, which requires you to use dentists in the plan's provider network. This can be a more affordable choice, but be sure to check if your dentist is part of the network.
Alternatively, you can opt for a Dental PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plan, which offers more choice and flexibility but is typically the most expensive option.
Alternatives
If you're looking for alternatives to traditional dental insurance, you have a few options to consider. A dental discount plan or prepaid dental plan can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional dental insurance.
Some popular alternatives to dental insurance in Wisconsin include dental discount plans and prepaid dental plans. These plans can offer significant savings on dental care, but they may not provide the same level of coverage as traditional dental insurance.
You can get free individual & family dental insurance quotes from multiple companies online to compare rates and find the best option for your needs. This can help you make an informed decision about which type of dental coverage is right for you.
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If you're looking for a more cost-effective option, consider a dental HMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) plan. These plans typically have lower premiums but require you to use dentists within the plan's provider network.
Here are some popular alternatives to dental insurance in Wisconsin:
Ultimately, the best alternative to traditional dental insurance will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Be sure to research and compare different options to find the one that works best for you.
Group for Businesses
Offering group dental insurance to your employees is a great way to create a healthier and happier workplace. It's also a benefit that attracts talented applicants and retains your current employees.
Providing dental coverage shows you care about your employees' health and well-being, which improves workplace morale and productivity. This can be especially beneficial for businesses in Wisconsin, where Momentum Plans offers customizable group plans for businesses of all sizes.
Employees are often willing to pay the full premiums for dental insurance, and appreciate the convenience of paying their costs through pre-taxed dollars. This can be a win-win for both you and your employees.
Buying Outside of the Exchange
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You can purchase stand-alone dental plans directly from insurers in Wisconsin, and these plans are regulated by the Wisconsin Division of Insurance.
These plans are not subject to the ACA's essential health benefit rules for pediatric dental coverage, which means they may have different requirements and benefits.
If you're interested in a non-ACA qualified dental plan, ask a dentist for recommendations, as they often have experience working with various insurance providers.
You can also search online to find a plan that fits your needs, but be sure to research the provider and plan carefully before making a decision.
Stand-Alone Pediatric Plans ACA-Compliant?
Stand-alone pediatric plans on the exchange are ACA-compliant, meaning they must follow the ACA's pediatric dental coverage rules. This ensures that out-of-pocket costs for pediatric dental care won't exceed $400 per child in 2024, or $800 for all children on a family's plan.
In Wisconsin, the pediatric stand-alone dental plans available through the health insurance Marketplace have to comply with these rules. The out-of-pocket maximums for these plans are $400 per child and $800 for all children on a family's plan in 2024.
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The out-of-pocket maximums for these plans will increase to $425 and $850, respectively, in 2025. This means that families can expect to pay no more than these amounts for pediatric dental care under a stand-alone plan.
There is no cap on medically necessary pediatric dental benefits for stand-alone plans. This means that as long as the care is medically necessary, there is no limit to how much the plan will pay for it.
Stand-alone plans are available through HealthCare.gov in Wisconsin. Families can purchase these plans to get coverage for their children's dental care.
Plan Details
When choosing a dental insurance plan, consider the network of providers. Some plans have a large network of dentists, while others may have a smaller network.
Dental insurance plans typically have a deductible, which is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in. This can range from $25 to $100 per year.
Preventive care is usually covered 100% by most dental insurance plans. This includes regular check-ups, cleanings, and X-rays.
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Some plans may have a waiting period before certain procedures are covered. This can range from 6 to 12 months.
Annual maximums are also common in dental insurance plans. This is the maximum amount the insurance will pay out for dental care in a year, which can range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Maximums for specific procedures can also vary. For example, some plans may have a higher maximum for fillings than for crowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the best dental insurance?
Delta Dental is considered the best overall dental insurance provider, offering comprehensive coverage and affordable plans for various needs, including braces, implants, and older adults. Their Premium PPO plan offers a $2,000 annual maximum benefit and a $50 deductible.
Are dental insurance plans worth it?
Worth it or not? It depends on whether your employer is covering a significant portion of the premiums
Sources
- https://www.momentumplans.com/dental-insurance-plans/
- https://www.healthinsurance.org/dental/wisconsin-dental-insurance-guide/
- https://www.simplyinsurance.com/best-dental-insurance-wisconsin/
- https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/oral-health/find-dental-care.htm
- https://www2.deltadentalcoversme.com/plan-options/wi-plans
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