DENTAL INSURANCE-PART I If you have dental benefits, do you know what's in the fine print and what type of plan is best for you? Many Americans-77%-have dental benefits, the National Association of Dental Plans says. Most people have private coverage, usually from an employer or group program. Large employers are more likely to offer dental benefits than small employers and high wage workers are more likely to receive them than low wage workers. Medicare doesn't cover dental care, and most state Medicaid programs cover dental care only for children. When you shop for coverage, make sure you understand what the plan covers. If your employer offers dental coverage, that's an easy choice. It tends to be cheaper than getting a policy on your own. If you 're shopping for your own plan and you already have a dentist, your dentist may be able to recommend a plan based on your dental history. As you compare plans, try to find out the following things: Whether your dentist and any specialists you may need are in network Total costs for the plan each year, including premiums, co-pays, and deductibles Annual maximum Out-of-pocket limit, if any Limitations on pre-existing conditions Coverage for braces, if needed or anticipated Emergency treatment coverage, including treatment if you 're away from home With the right research, you'll be able to choose a plan that meets all your dental needs. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CLIB86659 DENTAL INSURANCE-PART I If you have dental benefits, do you know what's in the fine print and what type of plan is best for you? Many Americans-77%-have dental benefits, the National Association of Dental Plans says. Most people have private coverage, usually from an employer or group program. Large employers are more likely to offer dental benefits than small employers and high wage workers are more likely to receive them than low wage workers. Medicare doesn't cover dental care, and most state Medicaid programs cover dental care only for children. When you shop for coverage, make sure you understand what the plan covers. If your employer offers dental coverage, that's an easy choice. It tends to be cheaper than getting a policy on your own. If you 're shopping for your own plan and you already have a dentist, your dentist may be able to recommend a plan based on your dental history. As you compare plans, try to find out the following things: Whether your dentist and any specialists you may need are in network Total costs for the plan each year, including premiums, co-pays, and deductibles Annual maximum Out-of-pocket limit, if any Limitations on pre-existing conditions Coverage for braces, if needed or anticipated Emergency treatment coverage, including treatment if you 're away from home With the right research, you'll be able to choose a plan that meets all your dental needs. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CLIB86659