Teeth.com · Patient education
Dental care. Within reach.
Understand your plan options before you join.
A useful plan starts with the care you need and a dentist you can see. Compare the total cost and the written terms, as well as the monthly price.
Dental insurance
Pays benefits for eligible care under the policy. Your share may include a deductible, copayments or coinsurance. Check service limits, exclusions and the maximum benefit the plan will pay.
Dental savings plans
A discount plan is not insurance. Participating dentists agree to specified fees, and you pay for treatment at those rates. Compare the membership fee and the actual fees for your planned care.
Read more: ADA: types of dental plans.
Start with the dentist
- Use the plan provider’s directory for the exact plan you are considering.
- Call the dental office to confirm participation, availability and whether the needed care is offered.
- Ask for a written estimate for your treatment under that plan. A general map listing does not confirm participation.
The homepage search opens general Google Maps results.
Compare the whole cost
Add the yearly premium or membership fee to your expected out-of-pocket treatment costs. Ask when benefits begin, what is excluded and whether limits apply to the services you need. The lowest monthly price may not give the lowest total cost.
More questions to ask: ADA: choosing a dental plan.
Before you join
Use this checklist with any plan you are considering. Your checks stay on this page and reset when you leave.
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References checked October 5, 2026. About our content.