Using In-network Dentists Can Help Keep Health Insurance Costs Low

Research has linked good oral health and overall health. Studies have shown that there is a relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke and adverse pregnancy outcomes: all potential high-cost claims on your health insurance plan. Dental insurance is essentially a wellness plan that helps break down the barrier to routine preventative dental care and can lessen the claims risk on your health insurance plan. Adequate preventative measures including regular dental check-ups, can impact your entire employee benefits program including preventing costly health problems and lost time from work.

How can you help your employees make the best use of their plan and take part in preventative services? In order for your wellness/dental plan to be successful, your employees should visit an in-network provider when they go for their cleanings and appointments. Electing an in-network dentist will help your employees get the most out of their benefits in the form of network discounts. The network discounts can result in fewer out-of-pocket expenses.

Take the time to encourage your employees to elect in-network providers during your open enrollment, employee benefit meetings, new hire orientation, signing up for next year’s benefits… anytime is a good time for a reminder. Here’s an employee handout that you can provide to your employees, reminding them to choose in-network providers.