Dental care is essential, but paying for it can feel confusing. Should you stick with traditional dental insurance or consider an in-house membership plan? Each option has benefits, and the best choice depends on your budget, dental needs, and how much flexibility you want.
At Milltown Family Dentistry in Carrboro, NC, Dr. Ben Lambeth and Dr. Megumi Lambeth offer both options and help patients decide which works best for them. Let’s break it down!
How Dental Insurance Works
Dental insurance works a lot like health insurance—you pay a monthly premium, and your plan covers certain services. Generally, most plans follow a coverage breakdown like this:
Preventive Care: Cleanings, exams, and X-rays are usually 100% covered.
Basic Treatments: Fillings and extractions are partially covered, often around 70-80%.
Major Procedures: Crowns and root canals may only be 50% covered and often have waiting periods.
Things to Consider:
Many plans have annual maximums—once you hit that limit, you pay out of pocket.
Deductibles and copays apply, so not everything is fully covered.
Some services, like cosmetic dentistry, are often not covered at all.
What is a Dental Membership Plan?
A membership plan is not insurance—it’s a direct payment option through your dentist. You pay a monthly or yearly fee and receive:
Routine Care: Cleanings, exams, and X-rays are included.
Discounts: Reduced costs on additional treatments.
No Insurance Hassles: No deductibles, waiting periods, or claim forms.
Why Patients Love It:
It’s predictable—just a set monthly or annual fee.
No insurance headaches—no approvals, claim denials, or waiting periods.
It covers what you actually need—often includes gum disease treatments, fluoride, and oral cancer screenings.
Which One is Right for You?
If you already have dental insurance through an employer or private provider, it may cover most of your preventive care. However, if your plan has high out-of-pocket costs, waiting periods, or doesn’t cover what you need, a membership plan could be a better fit.
If you don’t have insurance, a membership plan provides coverage without the stress of maximums, deductibles, or insurance company restrictions. It’s especially helpful for families, retirees, and self-employed individuals.
Affordable Dental Care at Milltown Family Dentistry in Carrboro, NC
At Milltown Family Dentistry, Dr. Ben Lambeth and Dr. Megumi Lambeth offer both insurance-friendly care and a simple in-house membership plan. Whether you have insurance or want a no-hassle alternative, we’ll help you find the best way to keep your smile healthy.
Curious about our membership plan? Call us today and see how easy it is to get the care you need—without the insurance drama!
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