Insurance for dental services and procedures doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. If you understand all of the options out there, you can find a plan that fits into your budget – that also gives you the coverage you need.
So, what kinds of options are out there?

1. A discount dental plan

If you only want to spend money when you need dental work, a discount dental plan is the best way to go. With one, you sign up for a cheap annual membership. In return, you get a discount card that entitles you to discounts on your dental services and procedures. For example, you might get 30% off on your cleanings or 60% off on your x-rays.

The only catch is that you’re completely responsible for paying those discounted rates. Your insurance company won’t help you foot the bill for any of it. However, if you don’t have a bunch of dental issues, and you just want something that can help you afford routine and preventative dental care, a discount dental plan may be the perfect solution!

2. Student dental insurance

If you’re a full-time student, you probably have enough trouble affording your tuition and books. The last thing you probably think you can afford is insurance for dental services! Luckily, though, you don’t have to choose between school costs and dental costs – thanks to student dental insurance.

With it, you can get dental coverage for as little per month as the price you would pay for a few cups of coffee during an all-night study session. And, as an added benefit, you can even find student dental insurance that’s tailored to meet your specific needs – like insurance to pay for your braces or crowns.

3. An individual dental PPO

If you’re a single person who’s just looking for some basic dental coverage that won’t break the bank, you can get it with an individual dental PPO. These plans come with cheap monthly premium payments. In fact, you can usually find one for less than it would cost you to go out to Happy Hour on a Friday night.

An individual dental PPO plan is the most traditional of all these options. With it, you’ll have deductibles and copays to worry about – and that’s it.

The rest of your dental bills will be paid by your insurance company. The only catch is that you’ll have to pick a dentist from an approved list of providers. However, a good individual dental PPO plan will come with a long list, so that you can take your pick!