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Best Dental Insurance For Major Dental Work

Written by: Jody Adams
Last updated: January 31, 2024

Dental insurance and dental assistance is important for staying healthy and keeping your mouth in good condition. And when it comes to major dental work, it's important to ensure you have the right coverage. Major dental work like root canals, dental implants, and crowns can burn a hole in your pocket without adequate insurance coverage.

For seniors, many types of policies available can help you pay for expensive dental procedures and keep your smile looking great.  Let's look at the best dental insurance for major dental work.

Questions To Ask When Looking For Dental Insurance

Before settling down with a dental insurance provider, ask the following questions to ensure you get the best coverage that matches your needs and budget. 

Do I Need Special Coverage? 

The answer to this question will depend on your individual needs. If you're looking for coverage that goes beyond basic checkups and cleanings, then yes, you may need special coverage. 

Most standard plans don't cover major procedures such as crowns, bridges, root canals, or implants. If these are necessary for your oral health, then it's best to look for a policy with extra coverage specifically designed for major dental work. 

What Should I Look For? 

When shopping for dental insurance that provides extra coverage for major dental procedures, there are several factors to consider: 

  1. The plan should provide comprehensive coverage so that all of your needs are taken care of, from preventive care to more serious treatments; 
  2. Check if the plan covers specific services such as orthodontics; 
  3. Look into how much of the cost is covered by the policy; and lastly, 
  4. Make sure the deductible is within your budget and compare different plans before deciding.

You should also be aware that some insurers will not cover preexisting conditions or certain services like cosmetic dentistry, so read the fine print.

Best Dental Insurance For Major Dental Work

Here is the top dental insurance that covers major dental works. 

Cigna

As a leading insurance provider, Cigna has some of the most affordable and comprehensive dental insurance for seniors. They have three plans, namely:

  • Cigna Dental Preventive - $19 monthly for routine exams
  • Cigna Dental 1000 - $33 monthly for preventive and some restoration works (max $1000 annual benefit)
  • Cigna Dental 1500 - $39 monthly for preventive care, basic restoration, and orthodontia coverage (max $1500 annual coverage)

Features:

  • Maximum Annual Benefit: $1000 - $1500
  • Deductible: $50 for individuals and $150 for family plans
  • Waiting Period: 6 months (basic coverage) and 12 months (major work)
ProsCons
Accepted by many dentists due to a large provider networkLong waiting period
No deductibles and copay for preventive dental care like cleaning and x-raysLimited maximum annual Benefit
Has 24/7/365 customer supportThe basic plan is only for preventive services

Renaissance Dental

Renaissance has been around since 1957 and has provided insurance coverage for millions of people. They have different plans, like the MAX Choice Plan and MAX Choice Plus, geared toward major dental work.

Features:

  • Maximum Annual Benefit: $1000 - $3000
  • Deductible: $50 for individuals and $150 for family plans
  • Waiting Period: none
ProsCons
Has plans with high maximum annual benefits The monthly cost can be expensive depending on your state
No waiting period for fillings and crownsDoesn't cover orthodontics
Has a loyalty reward that increases yearly$3,000 annual maximum Benefit is only for the top tier plan

United Healthcare

If you're looking for a seasoned insurance provider, look no further than United Healthcare. They've been in the business since 1974 and are available in 47 states. 

Features:

  • Maximum Annual Benefit: $1000 - $2000
  • Deductible: $100 for individuals 
  • Waiting Period: None to 6 months (major work), depending on the state
ProsCons
No waiting period even for major work (in some states)Out-of-network dental coverage is expensive and inconvenient
Includes hearing aid and exams with an option to add a vision riderOnly covers 47 states
Has no maximum age limit

Frequently Asked Questions:

What should I consider when looking for dental insurance that covers major dental work?

When looking for dental insurance that covers major dental work, consider factors such as the extent of coverage, waiting periods, annual maximums, and the provider network. Choose a plan that covers the specific procedures you may need, such as root canals, crowns, or dental implants. Be aware of any waiting periods that may apply to major dental work and make sure the annual maximum is sufficient to cover your anticipated dental expenses.

Are there any dental insurance plans that cover major dental work without a waiting period?

Some dental insurance plans may offer coverage for major dental work without a waiting period, although these plans are less common and may have higher premiums. It's essential to research and compare different dental insurance plans and carefully review the policy details to determine if a waiting period applies to major dental work.

How can I find the best dental insurance plan for major dental work in the U.S.?

To find the best dental insurance plan for major dental work in the U.S., start by researching and comparing plans from different insurance providers. Consider factors such as coverage, waiting periods, annual maximums, and provider networks. You can use online resources, such as insurance comparison websites or consumer reviews, to gather information on various plans. Additionally, consult with a licensed insurance agent or broker for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific dental needs and budget.

Get the Dental Insurance You Need Today

Finding the right dental insurance can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a bit of research and knowledge about what kind of coverage you need, you'll be able to find a policy that works for your particular situation, especially if you're looking specifically for insurance that covers major dental work. 

Whether it's crowns or implants, shopping around and comparing different policies will ensure you get the best value out of your investment. 

Are you looking for an alternative to dental insurance? Check out the available dental grants for individuals who need affordable dental options at Gov-relations.

Jody Adams
Jody Adams is an accomplished editor-in-chief with a deep understanding of social care and government benefits issues. With a background in journalism and a master's degree in Public Policy, Jody has spent her career shaping the narrative around social policies and their impact on society. She has worked with renowned publications, effectively bridging the gap between complex policy analysis and public understanding. Jody's editorial expertise ensures that vital information on social care and government benefits reaches a broad audience, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.
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