4 Tips for Selecting Dental and Vision Coverage in Retirement

(Family Features) While most older adults understand the importance of obtaining medical insurance once they retire and are no longer covered by an employer, not all prioritize dental and vision coverage. However, avoiding those premiums in the short term can add up to a costly mistake. Individuals who have dental and vision coverage are more likely to visit their providers regularly, and routine checkups allow providers to prevent, identify and treat issues before they become serious. Delaying care for many dental and vision problems can lead to more comprehensive treatment that requires more time and can be more costly. When selecting dental and vision coverage, retirees should consider these important factors, identified by the experts at Delta Dental of Illinois: Expansive Network of Providers Retirees typically save the most when they see in-network providers for their dental and vision care. That’s why it’s important to choose a plan that allows access to a broad, nationwide network of providers, especially if you plan to travel during retirement. Also be aware that plan types can vary, so a dentist who is considered in-network with one plan may not be with another. If you have a provider who you already know and are comfortable seeing, it’s a good idea to verify your preferred provider is in-network with the plan you are considering. Comprehensive Coverage for Evolving Needs Oral and vision health needs change with age, so retirees can benefit from selecting coverage that fits both their current needs and potential long-term needs, offering coverage for both minor and major treatments. Base plans typically provide basic protection, such as annual cleanings and eye exams, with an emphasis on preventive care, while mid-range and premium plans add coverage for various needs like contacts or lenses, whitening, implants and more complex procedures. Affordability for Fixed Incomes Many retirees live on fixed incomes, so looking for places to trim expenses is understandable. However, skimping on dental and vision coverage by choosing a plan that doesn’t cover your needs can cost more in the long run. That’s why it’s important to carefully evaluate plans and understand the details of what the plan covers along with its cost. Remember basic plans often cover fewer services, so be sure to consider potential costs of uncovered services when comparing plans and choosing coverage. Evaluating a plan’s affordability also means considering the premium costs and the out-of-pocket costs, like deductibles and copays. Preventive Care Coverage Retirees should prioritize plans that offer comprehensive preventive benefits, like routine checkups, cleanings and screenings. Preventive care plays a critical role in early detection of health issues and reduces the need for more expensive and uncomfortable treatments later. Preventive dental care may be far more comprehensive than you realize. Some of these services include diagnostic evaluations, X-rays, professional cleanings, education on proper oral hygiene techniques and counseling on areas that affect oral health, such as nutrition and tobacco use. Routine vision appointments can help identify common problems such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration in early stages when they are most treatable and less likely to result in permanent vision loss. Taking a proactive approach and choosing a plan that allows you to prioritize preventive care not only helps protect dental and vision health but is also important for overall health. In fact, studies have shown links between gum disease and serious health conditions including diabetes, heart disease and dementia. If you’re a retiree, prioritize your oral and overall health, and consider adding or changing your dental and vision coverage. Explore available plans at deltadentalil.com/plans.   Photo courtesy of Shutterstock