Dental insurance is worth it for some people, not for others. Here is how to evaluate whether it makes sense in your case.
Basic dental care costs without insurance
To give you an idea of the amounts involved in Quebec:
- Routine cleaning and exam: $150 to $250 (twice a year recommended)
- Full X-rays: $100 to $200 (every 2 to 3 years)
- Filling: $150 to $300 per tooth
- Crown: $1,200 to $2,000 per tooth
- Simple extraction: $150 to $300
If you have two routine visits per year and occasionally need treatment, your annual dental expenses can easily reach $500 to $1,000.
What dental insurance typically reimburses
Plans vary, but here are the general guidelines:
- Preventive care (cleaning, exam): often reimbursed at 80 to 100%, sometimes with no waiting period
- Basic care (fillings, extractions): often 60 to 80% of costs
- Major care (crowns, dentures): often 50%, sometimes after a 12-month waiting period
- Orthodontics: rarely included in basic individual plans; when it is, with a lifetime cap
The premium for an individual dental plan depends on your age, the coverage level chosen, whether the plan is bundled with health coverage, and the insurer. An advisor can give you the real figure for your situation in one call.
When dental insurance is generally worth it
- You have children: Children often need more frequent care (sealants, corrections, wisdom teeth eventually).
- You visit regularly: Two routine visits per year + occasional care often make a reasonable premium worthwhile.
- You have planned major work: Note that most insurers have a waiting period for major care. Purchasing coverage just before expensive treatment generally does not work.
- You are self-employed: Your dental expenses are entirely your responsibility without a group plan.
When it may not be worth it
- You have excellent dental health and few treatments. If your actual annual expenses are lower than the premium, you are paying for nothing.
- You want to cover major treatment immediately. Most plans have a 12-month waiting period for major care.
- You are nearing retirement with few dependents and good dental health.
The right question to ask
Estimate your average dental expenses over the last 3 years. Divide by 3. Compare that amount to the annual premium of a plan that would cover those expenses. If the math works in your favor, or if you anticipate future expenses, dental insurance is worth considering.
To compare your options
Our advisors can help you find the plan suited to your needs: (514) 500-7220.