It’s an investment that could prove beneficial.

There is a common joke about holding onto a job that offers dental insurance like it’s a lifeline. However, many entry-to-mid level jobs do not come with dental insurance benefits. This leaves individuals to decide if they should invest in dental insurance independently. So, is it worth it to buy dental insurance on your own? Let’s explore some key points.

The cost of individual dental insurance can vary significantly based on whether you are an individual or have a family, as well as the condition of your teeth. If you have naturally strong and well-maintained teeth, paying for occasional cleanings out of pocket at your local dentist might be a more cost-effective choice. Some dental providers offer in-house plans that include a couple of cleanings per year for a fixed fee.

On the other hand, if you frequently experience issues like toothaches and cavities, having dental insurance might be a wiser decision as you may require more frequent dental visits. Despite the lack of job-provided dental insurance options, purchasing dental coverage through a health insurance marketplace might not be as pricey, especially compared to health insurance. If you are buying insurance for yourself and only need occasional fillings and procedures like wisdom tooth removals, you could likely find a decent plan within the range of $15-$30. Similar to health insurance, dental insurance does not cover everything, but if you make regular dental visits, it could be a wise investment, especially since some dentists with advanced equipment may prefer insured patients.

Additionally, having dental insurance is a form of proactive spending. From personal experience, even with good dental hygiene practices, teeth can encounter unexpected issues. Therefore, having insurance can provide a safety net in case you require costly procedures like root canals and crowns and prefer not to bear the entire financial burden out of pocket.