Paying for dental care

Three common ways people pay

Most people use one of these, or a mix. Each has its own rules, so the right questions differ.

Dental insurance

Common through work or bought on your own

  • Routine visits are often covered more fully than larger treatment
  • Many plans have a yearly maximum and waiting periods
  • A pre-treatment estimate shows what the plan expects to pay
  • Check whether your dentist is in the plan's network
Read the cost questions

Discount and membership plans

Offered by some practices and companies

  • You pay a fee and receive reduced prices at taking-part practices
  • These are not insurance, and there is usually no claim to file
  • Read which practices accept the plan before you join
  • Ask whether bigger treatment is included
Read the cost questions

Paying the practice

With or without a payment plan

  • Ask for a written estimate for every item
  • Some practices offer payment over time; read the terms
  • Ask whether treatment can be split across visits
  • Dental schools and community clinics may cost less
Read the cost questions

Smilewise does not sell or arrange insurance or payment plans, and this page names no company. Plans differ; read your own plan's documents or ask the plan directly.

Questions to ask about cost

  • What will each item on this plan cost, and what does my coverage pay?
  • Can you send a pre-treatment estimate to my insurer?
  • Which items are urgent, and which could wait until my coverage renews?
  • Is there a less costly option that would still do the job?
  • If I pay over time, what are the terms, and is there interest?

Questions about Smilewise?

Call us Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm EST, or write to us any time.

Call nowWrite to us