A Stand-Alone Dental Plan is a Dental coverage that Original Medicare or Medigap doesn’t cover. Although most MA carriers have built-in dental coverage, the Stand-Alone Dental Plan is suited more for people with no coverage through Medicare. However, people can still purchase a separate Dental Plan while on MA or MAPD for extra coverage.
Why is it important to have Dental coverage for seniors?
Example:
- Prevent gum disease that can affect heart
- Oral health
- Dentures
- Root canal
- Routine checks up
- Major oral surgeries (if needed)
Dental Plans are sold by major carriers or private companies, and most come with a waiting period. Typically, 6-12 months, depending on which plan a client chooses or carrier base. There are 3 types of Dental Plans such as:
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) A network of dentists who have agreed a set fee for dental service.
- DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization)
- Discount or Referral Plans
What is a Discount or Referral Dental Plans?
Discount/Referral Plan is a Dental Savings Program that is typically for people with no coverage, or their policy won’t pay for the service. Therefore, a patient can negotiate an agreed price for their service and save between 10%-60%.
How does it work?
- Pay an annual fee upfront
- No monthly fee
- Once you pay the annual membership fee, you can go to the dentist the very next day.
- No waiting periods
Who can enroll in a Dental/Discount/Referral Plans?
Everyone! Some carriers have no age limit, while others have a special design plan for seniors.
