Updated Feb 2023
When shopping for dental insurance, you’ll come across plans that impose a waiting period that might last a month to a year or more. This means that certain levels of coverage, or perhaps even all coverage, won’t kick in until after the waiting period is over. Sounds inconvenient and frustrating, doesn’t it?
The good news is there are dental insurance no waiting period options available.
So, if you want to rest assured that your policy will cover everything from preventive to major services from the day your plan becomes active, searching for full coverage dental insurance with no waiting period is the right way to go.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best dental insurance providers that offer plans without a waiting period.
Overview
Dental insurance with no waiting period: 6 options to consider
Spirit Dental
Denali Dental
California Dental
Renaissance
Delta Dental
What is the best dental insurance with no waiting?
Cost
Coverage
Network
Are there ways to avoid a waiting period with dental insurance?
Shop now for dental insurance with no waiting period
Dental insurance with no waiting period: 6 options to consider
1. Spirit Dental
Spirit Dental provides several perks that might be hard to get with other providers. For example, the $5,000 annual max is higher than many others, three cleanings are covered each year, and you can choose from a large network of dentists or go with a plan that lets you select any dentist you wish. Plus, there aren’t any waiting periods to worry about, and you can find plans that cover children’s orthodontics.
2. Denali Dental
Another insurer that has one of the highest annual maximums is Denali Dental, with a $6,000 max. Although these plans tend to be pricey, there are several perks, such as four cleanings per year, no waiting periods, and orthodontic coverage for children and adults. Plus, with a large network of dentists to choose from, as well as plans that let you select any dentist you want, this may be a good choice if you prefer that flexibility.
3. California Dental
With California Dental, you can find plans that have low premiums and copays, no deductibles, and an unlimited annual max, so they’re a good option if you’re on a budget. Even though there are limitations in terms of the dentists you can choose from, there aren’t any waiting periods. And you might be able to get coverage for implants and cosmetic treatments.
4. Renaissance
Renaissance is yet another provider that offers plans without waiting periods, but there is an annual deductible that should be considered when calculating out-of-pocket costs. You can also take advantage of a high annual max, coverage for children’s orthodontics, and the flexibility to select any dentist.
5. Delta Dental
Delta Dental is available nationwide and has become popular for several reasons. The benefits on basic and major services increase up to year three, there’s a high annual max, and you can choose from a large network of dentists. However, although you might find a plan in your area without a waiting period, many plans do have waiting periods for certain services, so read the fine print before deciding which one will meet your needs.
What is the best dental insurance with no waiting period?
To find the best dental insurance no waiting period option, compare individual dental coverage options that give you the benefits you need at a price you can afford.
Cost
Even when your focus is on getting a plan that won’t restrict you with a waiting period, it’s wise to evaluate options based on out-of-pocket costs, including the premium, deductible, copay, and coinsurance. And don’t forget about the annual maximum, which is the highest amount the insurer will pay to cover dental services each year. All of these factors can help determine how affordable a plan will be, as well as how much you can potentially save every time you see the dentist. So, you might want to narrow your options down to dental insurance with no waiting period and no maximum.
Coverage
Some plans will impose a waiting period for specific types of treatments and services. For instance, while you might be able to start using the insurance to cover preventive care immediately, you might need to wait before receiving coverage for basic or major services.
Try to find plans based on the support you’ll need for yourself and your family.
Here are some examples:
- If you’re shopping for a family dental plan that includes coverage for kids, consider dental insurance for braces with no waiting period.
- If you’re shopping for senior dental coverage, you might want to find dental insurance that covers dentures with no waiting period.
- If you tend to need dental care often, it might be best to choose dental insurance with no waiting for root canals.
- If you think you might need expensive and invasive treatments, consider dental insurance with no waiting period for major services.
- If you’re a veteran, you might be eligible for dental insurance for veterans with no waiting period.
Network
Finally, consider the network of dentists you’ll be able to choose from. Will you be restricted to a network, or will you be able to choose any dentist you like?
Depending on how much flexibility you want when it comes to selecting a dental professional, this factor can help you figure out which dental plan with no waiting period is right for you.
Are there ways to avoid a waiting period for dental insurance?
Yes, it might be possible to have a waiting period waived. For instance, if you had dental insurance over the past year, the insurer might not make you wait. Contact the provider directly if you have questions about waiving a waiting period.
Shop now for dental insurance plans with no waiting period
If you’re ready to shop for dental plans in your area but you’re feeling overwhelmed, use the Direct Benefits Marketplace, where you can compare plans and weigh their pros and cons based on factors like waiting periods. Then, once you’ve found a plan that works for you, you can easily sign-up so you can start reaping its benefits as soon as possible.