Dental insurance and discount plans are very different products, though both provide discounts on dental services. Dental insurance usually requires the subscriber to pay a monthly premium, often in the range of $25 for an individual. That adds up to $300 annually. Insurance often covers two dental exams per year and two healthy mouth or prophy cleanings. There is generally an annual dollar limit on benefits, often $1500 - $1800. Typically insurance products require deductibles, co-pays, waiting periods and claim forms. Many have exclusions for pre-existing conditions as well. Discount dental plans are usually much less expensive. Patients typically  join by paying a low annual membership fee, often upfront. If you don’t have insurance or a discount dental plan, ask us about SmilePlus.  Each member receives two free annual exams and savings of up to 70% of cleanings, x-rays, crowns, bridges, and other dental services. Learn more about SmilePlus