The Ultimate Guide to Buying Dental Insurance in Canada

Dental care can be costly, but having the right insurance plan can ensure you (and your family!) get the necessary treatments without breaking the bank. 

Whether you're a resident, a newcomer, or planning a long stay, understanding how to buy dental insurance in Canada will help you find a plan that meets your needs and budget. And we are here to do just that! 

Let's explore the steps to secure dental coverage and ensure a healthy smile.

Dental insurance plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and managing dental care costs. 

Even routine dental visits can become expensive without coverage, and unexpected dental issues can lead to significant financial strain. Here are some key reasons why dental insurance is important:

Dental insurance typically covers preventive care such as check-ups, cleanings, and x-rays. These regular visits are essential for maintaining oral health and catching problems early before they become more serious and costly.

With dental insurance, you are protected from high out-of-pocket costs for both routine and unexpected dental treatments. This financial protection ensures that you can afford necessary care without undue stress.

Having dental insurance gives you access to a variety of qualified dentists. This ensures you receive high-quality care and can find a dentist who meets your needs and preferences.

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the costs for major procedures such as fillings, crowns, root canals, and even orthodontics. This helps reduce the financial burden of more extensive dental work.

With insurance, people are more likely to schedule and attend regular dental appointments. Regular visits help maintain oral health, prevent serious issues, and reduce the need for more extensive treatments in the future.

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly and can be very costly. Dental insurance often provides coverage for emergency treatments, ensuring you get the care you need without worrying about the expense.

Knowing that you have dental insurance provides peace of mind. You won't have to worry about how to pay for dental care, allowing you to focus on maintaining your oral health and overall well-being.

It's worth noting that 1 out of 6 people in Canada say they cannot address their dental needs due to financial reasons, highlighting the importance of finding the right plan.

Individual plans are designed for single policyholders and provide coverage for a range of dental services. 

These plans are ideal for those who do not have access to dental insurance through their employer or are self-employed. Coverage typically includes preventive care, basic treatments, and sometimes major procedures.

Family plans cover multiple members of a household under one policy. These plans offer comprehensive coverage for adults and children, including preventive care, basic treatments, and orthodontic care for children. Family plans can be cost-effective to ensure the entire family can access necessary dental care.

Employers usually offer group plans as part of an employee benefits package. These plans provide coverage for employees and often their dependents. 

Due to the larger risk pool, group plans tend to have lower premiums than individual plans. Coverage can vary but generally includes basic preventive care and major treatments.

Student plans are tailored for full-time students and offer affordable dental coverage while they are in school. 

These plans typically include preventive care, basic treatments, and emergency dental services. Some universities and colleges provide dental insurance as part of their student health plans.

Senior plans cater to older adults who may have different dental needs, such as dentures, bridges, and other restorative treatments. 

These plans often cover preventive care and more extensive dental procedures, helping seniors maintain their oral health as they age.

Discount plans are not traditional insurance but offer reduced rates on dental services at participating providers. 

Members pay an annual fee to access these discounts. Discount plans can be a good option for those who want to save on dental care without the higher cost of full insurance coverage.

With costs for dental services increasing by 4.8% in Ontario in 2024, more and more Canadians are now considering getting coverage now before it is too costly. The main problem many people face is figuring out which option is right for them. 

It can feel like there are 100 options that all say they are the best on the market. To truly understand the big differences between types of coverage, let's explore the types of dental insurance options you might come across in your search.

Preventive Care: Preventive care includes routine check-ups, teeth cleanings, and x-rays. Most plans cover these services at 100%, encouraging regular visits to the dentist and maintaining good oral health.

Basic Treatments: Basic treatments cover common procedures such as fillings, extractions, fluoride treatment and basic periodontal care. These are typically covered at a higher percentage, making them more affordable.

Major Treatments: Primary treatments include complex procedures like root canals, crowns, bridges, and oral surgeries. Coverage varies, with many plans covering some costs, leaving the rest to the policyholder.

Orthodontic Services: Orthodontic services, including braces and retainers, are often included in family and comprehensive plans. Coverage can be limited, so check your plan details.

Cosmetic Procedures: Standard plans generally do not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening and veneers. However, some comprehensive plans may offer limited coverage for these treatments.

Emergency Dental Care: Emergency dental care covers urgent treatments for accidents or sudden dental issues. This ensures you can get prompt care without high out-of-pocket costs.

Periodontal Treatments: Periodontal treatments address gum disease and other issues related to the gums. Coverage for these treatments is important for overall oral health.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are a costly solution for missing teeth. Some plans offer coverage for implants, though it may be limited, helping reduce the financial burden.

Premiums for dental insurance can range from affordable monthly payments for basic coverage to higher amounts for comprehensive plans. However, it's essential to balance costs with the benefits provided. Some plans might seem inexpensive but can lead to higher out-of-pocket expenses due to limited coverage. 

On the other hand, more expensive plans might offer extensive benefits, potentially saving you money in the long run by covering more procedures and reducing unexpected costs. To make the most of your investment, compare different plans carefully. Look at what each plan covers, the kinds of dentists available, and any additional benefits.

Finding the perfect dental insurance plan doesn't have to be complicated. Start by evaluating your dental needs. Consider your oral health, required treatments, and potential future dental work. 

• Step 1: Ensure the plan covers preventive care, routine procedures, and any significant treatments you might need. Also, check if the plan includes your preferred dentists or if it provides access to the services and dental providers you like.
• Step 2: Next, compare the costs associated with different plans. Look at the premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and annual maximums. 
• Step 3: Ensure you understand the coverage details, including what is and isn't included. Reading customer reviews and getting recommendations from friends or family can also guide your decision.‍

Most dental insurance policies are pretty easy to purchase. Some people might find they prefer to purchase theirs in-person but others might find that buying dental coverage online gives them the flexibility and comfort of getting coverage from anywhere, at any time.

Getting dental insurance with PolicyMe is straightforward. Answer a few simple questions to get a personalized recommendation tailored to your needs and budget. In just 60 seconds, you'll receive a quote and can compare three different plans. 

This streamlined process removes the guesswork from finding the right coverage. Once you select a plan, securing your coverage takes less than five minutes. You can apply online without needing to answer medical questions, making it fast and hassle-free. 

Get started with PolicyMe today and protect your smile with ease. Get covered and get on with your life.

The cost of dental insurance in Canada varies widely based on factors like coverage level, age, and location but it comes as no surprise that the cost has been rising bit by bit. It makes sense that many Canadians feel they are wasting money on inadequate plans that don't fully meet their needs. A great way to make the most of dental insurance is to use it to your advantage, and we are here to give you some hacks we have acquired!

Here are some fresh tips to make the most of your dental insurance:

• Bundle Appointments: If possible, schedule multiple treatments in one visit. This can help reduce co-pays and maximise your time and coverage levels.
• Leverage Technology: Use apps or online portals provided by your insurance company to track your benefits, and manage appointments easily.
• Opt for Tele-dentistry: Some plans offer virtual dental consultations. These can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get advice and address minor issues without a physical visit.
• Utilise Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): If you have an HSA, use it to pay for dental expenses. Contributions to HSAs are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses, including dental, are tax-free.
• Take Advantage of Wellness Programs: Some insurance plans offer discounts or incentives for participating in wellness programs that promote oral health. Look into these options to save more.
• Coordinate Benefits if You Have Multiple Plans: If you have multiple dental insurance plans, such as through a spouse, coordinate benefits to maximise coverage and minimise out-of-pocket costs.
• Review Your Plan Annually: Insurance needs can change. Review your plan each year during open enrollment to ensure it still meets your needs, and consider switching if a better option is available.
• Educate Yourself on Exclusions: Knowing what isn't covered by your plan can help you avoid unexpected costs. Plan for these exclusions and seek alternative solutions if needed.

Dental insurance plans often have exclusions and limitations that you should be aware of to avoid unexpected costs. Here are some common exclusions in basic plans:

• Cosmetic procedures (e.g., teeth whitening, veneers)
• Pre-existing conditions
• Orthodontic treatment for adults
• Dental implants
• Elective procedures
• Experimental treatments
• Replacement of lost or stolen dental appliances

Enhanced plans might cover these dental procedures.

• Dental insurance often provides coverage for emergency treatments, ensuring you get the necessary care without worrying about high dental costs.
• 1 out of 6 people in Canada cannot address their dental needs due to financial reasons.
• Various types of dental insurance plans are available in Canada, including individual plans, family plans, group plans, student plans, senior plans, and discount plans. 

What if my dentist is not in the insurance network?

If your dentist isn’t in your insurance network, don't panic! You can still see them, but it might cost you more. Dental insurance typically works best with a network of approved dentists who offer services at lower rates. When you go out of network, your insurance might cover less of the bill, leaving you to pay more out of pocket. It’s a good idea to check your policy to see how much extra you might have to pay.

That said, there are options. You can talk to your dentist about the costs and see if they offer any discounts or payment plans. Also, consider the possibility of switching to an in-network dentist to save money in the long run. Insurance companies often have a list of approved providers, and switching might be simpler than you think. Remember, the goal is to get the care you need without breaking the bank.

Is dental insurance worth it if I have healthy teeth?

Absolutely! Even if your teeth are in great shape, dental insurance is still worth it. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential for keeping your teeth healthy, and insurance helps cover these preventive services. Without insurance, these routine visits can add up quickly. Plus, dental insurance can catch problems early before they become costly headaches. It's like having a safety net for your smile.

In Canada, dental procedures can be pricey, especially if unexpected issues arise. Dental insurance gives you peace of mind knowing you’re covered for more than just cleanings. From fillings to root canals, having coverage can save you a lot of money. And let’s face it, accidents happen – you don’t want to be hit with a hefty bill if you suddenly need major dental work. So, even with healthy teeth, dental insurance is a smart move for protecting your wallet and your oral health.