Dental insurance needs vary from person to person; therefore, dental coverage plans also vary, which may make selecting the right plan seem overwhelming.
Be prepared for this year's enrollment period by considering what kind of dental coverage your family needs and what plan fits those needs.
If this is your first year of eligibility, you can select your dental plan through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) during open enrollment. For 2025 coverage, enrollment for federal employees, federal retirees, military retirees and their families opens on Nov. 11, 2024, and ends at midnight EST on Dec. 9, 2024.
When considering your insurance company and specific plan, a few things to remember include coverage rates, the regions the network covers and customer service.
Here are some questions to ask when reviewing policies:
1. Does it have affordable rates for what you need?
Saving money is a plus for dental coverage, but you'll want to ensure you don't choose cost over what the plan includes. Carefully consider the options provided, including the deductible, copays and out-of-pocket cap. Coverage plans vary in the percentage of the cost covered for fillings, orthodontia, root canals and even preventive care services. If applicable, you'll also want to consider annual maximums and the waiting period for services.
2. Can you keep your current provider?
If you like your dental provider, you'll want to make sure you find a dental plan with a large provider network. You have more options when more providers are in the network, making it easier to find a new one if you move.
3. Is it easy to work with?
Insurance companies often have a reputation for not being easy to work with, but that isn't always true. When researching the company, find out what populations it serves. If a company works solely with federal employees and military retirees, you may find that it understands your questions or lifestyle better. How the organization is structured, how long it has been in business and how many people it serves are all good questions to ask.
4. What extras does it offer?
Sometimes, you can bundle your health care policies and save time or money. Check to see if the company you selected offers medical coverage in addition to the dental you chose. You may also want to check if it has vision coverage.
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