What's the difference between a savings plan and dental insurance?
The key differences between a dental savings plans and dental insurance in the US are around cost, coverage, and how benefits are paid out.
The trade-off is that insurance covers more basics but limits pay-outs. Savings plans provide steady discounts but do not offer full coverage.
People who need coverage for costly work may choose insurance if they can pay the costly premiums. However, dental insurance is like a discount for most people because it will not cover the full cost of the procedure. Savings plans provide quick access to treatment and an immediate discount.
Key differences - dental discount plans vs insurance
Insurance
Requires monthly or annual premiums, cost depends on plan details
Covers basic preventive care (cleanings, x-rays) and sometimes basic services
Pays an annual maximum amount for covered services
Uses networks of dentists, see in-network providers for maximum coverage
Often includes waiting periods for coverage on major work
As an example, dental insurance typically costs $360 per year with a maximum coverage of $1500 for some procedures
Savings plan
Typically an annual or monthly membership fee
Usually pays discounts on all services, no coverage maximums
Often lets you see any provider, dentists in the plan may offer deeper discounts
No waiting periods, discounts apply immediately
A dental savings plan will cost around $70/year. As an example, Altogether Dental members save an average of 40% on all dental procedures
See pricing and dentists near you
Can you combine a savings plan with insurance?
It's a good idea to combine dental insurance with a savings plan. This helps you get better cost coverage and regular discounts on dental care. Here are a few key points on how they can work together:
Use insurance for basic preventive services
Savings plan can fill in gaps in coverage and lowers costs further
Maximizes overall affordability
Choose dentists that participate in both your insurance network and the savings plan
An example: a patient has dental insurance for 2 cleanings per year but needs 4 total. They also require a tooth extraction not fully covered by insurance. The savings plan applies 20% discounts to the 2 additional non-covered cleanings and then saves 30% on the patient portion of the extraction.
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How it works
Altogether Dental membership is simple. You pay a monthly fee and get 15-50% off all dental procedures. You also earn loyalty rewards and get help with booking appointments.
Join today
Choose your membership and get your digital membership card right away.
Book an appointment
Select one of our trusted Aetna dentists near you and book an appointment.
Attend your appointment
Be sure to present your Altogether Dental membership card to reception.
Get your treatment plan
Get clarity on the cost of treatment. All procedures qualify for a discount.
Pay and claim
The price you pay is discounted automatically.
Validate your receipt
If you have any questions about your bill, our team is here to help.
