Every year, Americans are given the opportunity to buy individual health insurance plans through online state-run exchanges. This limited period of time, often referred to as open enrollment season, is the perfect chance to get dental insurance. Find out why you should take advantage of the opportunity.

Getting Dental Insurance During Open Enrollment

How Open Enrollment Works

You can get dental coverage either as part of a health plan or in the form of a stand-alone dental plan. If you choose the latter option, you’ll pay a separate premium. Note that you can’t buy a marketplace dental plan without also purchasing a health plan at the same time.

There are two types of marketplace dental plans: high and low. High coverage means higher premiums but lower deductibles and copayments. You’ll pay a higher rate each month but less money will be due when you get actual treatments. Low coverage means the opposite: lower premiums but higher copayments and deductibles. 

What Dental Insurance Coverage Can Do for You

Most people only focus on health insurance when open enrollment season comes around. Protecting your oral health is just as important, however. Preventive care, including regular teeth cleanings and checkups, are essential to catching problems early. This is especially important due to the progressive nature of dental issues.

If your dentist diagnoses a small cavity, for instance, a simple filling can fix it. Left untreated, it can progress to tooth decay and require more costly and painful treatments like a root canal. Similarly, if gingivitis—the earliest stage of gum disease—is diagnosed early on, it can often be reversed. Left unchecked, however, it can lead to full-blown periodontal disease and serious consequences, including tooth loss.

Daleville Dental LLC has been serving Alabama residents for over 20 years. They offer a comprehensive array of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services. Thanks to their friendly staff and welcoming environment, they have developed lasting relationships with many of their patients—as their online testimonials show. They accept most dental insurance plans. Call their office to double check that yours can be used: (334) 598-4994.