Dental and Vision
What to look for in a dental plan
- Is my preferred dentist in the plan?- Does the plan require a wait period or a first year before full coverage, if you do not currently have dental coverage?- Does it have a cap on how much does it pays out? - How much are your copays for different services that you are anticipating? This matters more than the monthly premium- What does it NOT cover? E.g. limited to only one implant or none at all?
Tip: If you have not had dental insurance in the last 60 days a. Consider Delta Dental's Clear or Ascent plan that has no 1-year wait period for major services right from the start b. Consider Ameritas or Mutual of Omaha which have more economical premiums, however, you must wait 6-12 months for full % coverage for major services (preventive services covered on day 1). You can choose max out of pocket and coverage to raise/lower the plans' premiums
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Tip: Delta Dental has an add-on vision plan that is more economical than buying a stand-alone vision plan. Bundle up!
Special Dental Services and Alternatives to Dental Insurance
Dental Clinics
Dental services priced on a sliding scale according to your income.
Clinics: ICHS, Seamar, Country Doctor, NeighborcareSchools: UW, Lake WashingtonServices For Individuals With Unique Needs
Seattle Special Care Dentistry is wonderful for people with challenges - special needs, dental fear/trauma, wheelchairs.At-Home Care
Enable Dental sends professionals to your home with portable equipment and specialized chairs. They can provide amazing services to homebound individuals: from cleanings to dentures to root canals.Non-Profit Dental Office designed for Seniors
Geriatric Dental Group is a non-profit that offers special care to seniors, as well as about 30% off regular prices. Washington locations: Federal Way and Vancouver.Discount Dental Plans
Careington and Cigna offer not insurance but “dental savings plans”: discounts at in-network dentists. Start anytime in the month. Cancel anytime. $20 sign up fee. Make sure your dentist is in network as networks are more limited.
What to look for in a vision plan
- Two vision networks pretty much divide the U.S. eyewear landscape: VSP® Vision Care and Eyemed. Is your preferred provider in which network?
- If you have a family, a vision plan is a sweetheart deal for unlimited kids. If you have expensive annual eyewear needs, a plan may be the right choice
- Or, skip insurance. You may want to pay out of pocket, and head to Costco or America's Best for reasonably priced eyewear
click logo link below to peruse and enroll