Dental Savings Plans (Discount Dental Programs)
Looking for ways to save on dental care? A dental savings plan can help lower the cost of many dental services. Learn how these programs work and whether one may be right for you.
What are dental savings plans?
Dental savings plans, also called discount dental programs, are annual membership programs. They are offered by some insurers, including Cigna Healthcare®, as well as other vendors.1
A discount dental program is different from regular dental insurance plans. Instead of getting insurance coverage, you pay a membership fee to receive discounted rates on eligible dental services from participating dentists.
There are a variety of dental savings plans. They can vary by cost and types of covered services. There are also programs that cover an individual vs. a family. Some programs come with added benefits, such as discounts on vision and hearing services.
How does a dental savings plan work?
A discount dental program can help lower the cost of many dental services. Once you buy a plan, here is how it works:
- Schedule dental care anytime, with no waiting period.
- Choose from a network of dentists.
- At your appointment, you’ll pay a discounted rate for each dental service you receive.
- Plans renew each year.
Key Features of Dental Savings Plans
Dental savings plans work differently from traditional dental insurance. Understanding their features, costs, and limitations can help you make an informed decision about your dental care options.
- A discount dental program may offer:
- Discounted rates for dental services.
- No waiting period.
- No paperwork.
- Access to a network of participating dentists.
Costs and Other Considerations
- “Discount” doesn’t mean free.
- You pay an annual membership fee to join the program.
- Each dental service you receive may cost you out-of-pocket, even if it comes with a discount, but programs vary.
- Total annual costs will vary based on the dental services you receive and the terms of the program.
Discount Dental Programs vs. Dental Insurance
Discount dental programs and dental insurance both help manage dental costs, but they work in different ways.
What should you consider?
When comparing a discount dental program and dental insurance, think about:
Your Coverage Needs
- Are you covering just yourself or your family?
- What dental services do you expect to need this year?
- Do you need dental care right away?
How Costs Work
With discount dental programs:
- You pay an annual membership fee.
- You pay discounted rates for dental services.
- There are no waiting periods.
- There are no claims.
With dental insurance:
- You pay a monthly premium.
- Most plans cover preventive dental care, such as cleanings, exams, and routine X-rays.
- Some plans also help cover services like fillings, crowns, and root canals.
- Deductibles, coinsurance, waiting periods, and coverage levels vary by plan.
Which option is right for you?
A discount dental program may be a good fit if you:
- Want discounted rates on dental care.
- Need dental care right away.
- Prefer an annual membership fee.
- Are not eligible for dental insurance.
Dental insurance may be a good fit if you:
- Want help paying for preventive care.
- Need coverage for other covered dental services.
- Prefer insurance coverage throughout the year.
- Desire simplicity.
Before purchasing a discount dental program, compare the membership cost with your expected dental care needs and potential savings.
For more information about Cigna Healthcare dental discount programs, visit www.cignadentalsavings.com, or call 1 (800) 240-2035.
1 Not Available in AK, CA, MT, ND, OK, RI, SD, UT, VT and WA. The discount medical, health and drug benefits (The Dental Savings Program) are NOT insurance, a health insurance policy, a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a qualified health plan under the Affordable Care Act. The Program provides discounts for certain medical services, pharmaceutical supplies, prescription drugs or medical equipment and supplies offered by providers who have agreed to participate in The Program. The range of discounts for medical, pharmacy or ancillary services offered under The Program will vary depending on the type of provider and products or services received. The Program does not make and is prohibited from making members’ payments to providers for products or services received under The Program. The Program member is required and obligated to pay for all discounted prescription drugs, medical and pharmaceutical supplies, services and equipment received under The Program, but will receive a discount on certain identified medical, pharmaceutical supplies, prescription drugs, medical equipment and supplies from providers in The Program. The Discount Medical Plan/Discount Plan Organization is Alliance HealthCard of Florida, Inc., 5005 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1500, Dallas, TX 75244. You may call 1.800.240.2035 or email info-abs@member-questions.com for more information or visit the provider locator on this site for a list of providers. The Program will make available before purchase and upon request, a list of program providers and the providers’ city, state and specialty, located in the member’s service area. The fees for The Program are specified in the membership agreement. The Program includes a 30-day cancellation provision. Note to MA consumers: The Program is not insurance coverage and does not meet the minimum creditable coverage requirements under M.G.L. c. 111M and 956 CMR 5.00.
This content is general health information and not medical advice or services. Always consult with your doctor/dentist for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and health care recommendations.
Product availability may vary by location and plan type and is subject to change. All dental insurance policies contain exclusions and limitations. For costs and details of coverage, review your plan documents or contact your Cigna Healthcare representative.
Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company and Cigna Dental Health, Inc. In Texas, the Dental plan is known as Cigna Dental Choice, and this plan uses the national Cigna DPPO Advantage network. In Utah, all products and services are provided by Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company (Bloomfield, CT).