How to choose a small business dental insurance plan

Choosing a small business dental insurance plan can feel overwhelming for any business owner. Selecting the option that fits the needs of the business and its employees involves careful consideration of factors like costs, coverage details, and more.

We’re here to guide you through the essential factors to weigh when choosing a small business dental insurance plan. From understanding the needs of your employees to evaluating coverage options and costs, we'll help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals and the health of your team.

How to choose a small business dental insurance plan in South Dakota

When selecting a dental insurance plan for your company, consider the following:

Learn about the needs of your employees

Understanding the unique dental care needs of your employees is the first step to selecting the right small business dental insurance plan. Are your employees mostly young and healthy, or do they have a range of dental needs? Consider factors such as age, family composition, and any existing dental issues that require attention.

Getting insights from your employees through surveys or discussions can provide valuable information for the coverage options you should consider.

Consider the business budget

Cost is the critical aspect of any benefit offering for small businesses. Consider how much your business is willing and able to contribute toward employee premiums and evaluate whether the costs align with your budget.

While some plans may not require an employer contribution, in many cases, employees and employers share the cost of plan premiums. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), “Most covered workers make a contribution toward the cost of the premium for their coverage. On average, covered workers contribute 17% of the premium for single coverage and 28% of the premium for family coverage…”

Note: The numbers listed above are meant to represent national averages in the United States. The percentages your business and your employees contribute may vary based on your specific needs.

Consider the cost to employees

In addition to the cost to the business, it’s important to consider the cost to your employees. Although preventive services like cleanings are usually fully covered, your employees may be responsible for a percentage of the costs of other procedures such as fillings. Familiarize yourself with deductibles, coinsurance costs, and other out-of-pocket expenses before selecting a plan.

Understand coverage details and provider access

Not all dental insurance plans are created equally. Take time to get familiar with all the services covered under the plan. Small business dental insurance plans can range from basic to comprehensive coverage.

Basic dental plans generally include preventive care, such as dental exams and cleanings, and some restorative services. Comprehensive dental plans typically include preventive services, basic restorative care like cavity fillings, and major services like root canals or crowns.

Access to providers should also be factored into selecting a small business dental insurance plan. Consider whether the plan's network of dentists includes providers that are conveniently located for your employees.

Make enrollment simple

Once you've selected a dental insurance plan, communicate the details to your employees. Provide enrollment materials and facilitate the enrollment process.

Small business dental insurance plans are valuable

By assessing the dental care requirements of your employees, evaluating coverage options, and understanding costs, you can make a choice that aligns with your business goals while providing your team with the benefits they want. 

At Delta Dental of South Dakota, we offer a variety of affordable small business dental insurance plans that are designed around the needs of your business. Reach out for more information or request a proposal from our sales team.

*Updated May 2024