- Most adult health plans don't include dental or vision coverage, so it's usually bought separately.
- Dental plans typically cover preventive care first; basic and major work may have waiting periods.
- Check the annual maximum: it's the most a dental plan pays per person per year.
- Vision plans usually cover a yearly exam plus an allowance for glasses or contacts.
How dental insurance works
Most dental plans organize care into three tiers, each covered at a different level:
| Tier | Examples | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Preventive | Cleanings, exams, routine X-rays | Often covered at a high percentage, sometimes from day one |
| Basic | Fillings, simple extractions | Coinsurance and any waiting period |
| Major | Crowns, bridges, root canals, dentures | Longer waiting periods and lower coverage percentages |
Two numbers matter most: the waiting period before basic and major work is covered, and the annual maximum, the most the plan will pay per person in a year.
How vision insurance works
Vision plans typically cover a routine eye exam each year and provide an allowance toward frames and lenses or contact lenses, often with discounts on extras like coatings. We compare allowances, provider networks and how often you can use each benefit.
Children's dental and vision
Pediatric dental and vision are essential health benefits under the ACA, so children's coverage may be included in or offered alongside a marketplace health plan. For adults, dental and vision are usually separate. We check what your health plan already includes before adding anything.
For employers
Group dental and vision are among the most valued, lowest-cost benefits a small business can offer, and they can be offered alongside or without a group health plan. We compare carriers and plan designs for your team.
General information only, not tax, legal or medical advice. Plan availability, benefits, networks and pricing vary by carrier, state, county and eligibility. COBRA information is general; see the U.S. Department of Labor for full rules.