List the dental work you expect this year and enter real plan numbers if you have them. We’ll compare your total yearly cost.
Insurance vs discount plan calculator
Add the dental work you expect this year. We’ll compare your total cost with insurance, a discount plan and cash.
Cheapest option for you
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Insurance$0premiums + your share
Discount plan$0fee + discounted prices
Pay cash$0full price
Uses typical national prices and a 100/80/50 coverage model (preventive/basic/major), cosmetic not covered, orthodontics at 50%. Discount plans are not insurance; discounts vary by dentist and plan. Check real plan documents before you buy.
Rules of thumb
- Only cleanings and checkups? Paying cash or a discount plan is often cheaper than insurance premiums.
- Big work needed soon? Insurance waiting periods (often 12 months for major work) and annual maximums limit its value: a discount plan may win this year.
- Family with kids? Insurance often wins because of sealants, fluoride and orthodontic coverage.
- Employer plan? Usually the best deal, because your employer pays part of the premium.
Read more: dental discount plans vs insurance.