According to Metlife’s 15th Annual U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study, dental insurance is one of the top five must-have employee benefits, along with medical insurance, prescription drug coverage, and others. Still, group dental insurance remains elusive for some employees, with company size playing a significant role in whether the benefit is offered. Research indicates that smaller companies operating on a tight budget are much less likely to offer dental insurance than companies with 500 or more employees.
The reality is that offering dental insurance gives you a leg up on other businesses competing for the same talent and makes it harder for your competitors to snag your top recruits.
A Great Smile Does Wonders
A growing body of evidence connects oral health to emotional health. For example, according to Guardian’s 5th Annual Workplace Benefits Study, individuals who receive periodic teeth cleanings and dental exams report better oral health and emotional wellness, Oral health also can be linked to self-esteem. A survey by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute found that 28 percent of young adults felt that the appearance of their mouth and teeth affected their ability to conduct a job interview. The survey further revealed an association between oral health and income, as one in five low-income adults say that their mouth is in poor condition. These individuals likely would visit the dentist more regularly if they had the means.
As noted in Guardian’s survey, people with employer-sponsored dental coverage are twice as likely to frequently visit the dentist. Still, there’s the matter of employer cost.
Factors That Determine Coverage
The decision to offer dental insurance is a financially serious one and should be enacted only after careful consideration. Focus your research on your company’s size, industry, and budget as well as what your competitors are offering. Geography is also important, as employers in certain regions are more likely to offer dental insurance than employers in other locations.
You will find that the cost of providing dental insurance depends on various factors, including the number (and ages) of employees, coverage type, and business location. Generally, though, compared with many other benefits, including health insurance, dental insurance typically falls on the lower end of the expense scale. Therefore, don’t just assume that dental coverage will be too expensive or out of budget.
Coverage Within Financial Reach
According to the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP), the average monthly cost of premiums for employees with individual dental coverage in 2016 was $14 to $30.50. Per the NADP, the typical plan covers preventive care, such as X-rays and periodic exams; basic procedures, such as office visits and fillings; and major procedures, such as crowns and bridges. Ultimately, your employees’ costs will depend on how much you contribute to their plan.
Not every business needs to provide dental insurance to thrive. But, if you are seeking a smiling, confident workforce, dental coverage can help you find it.
For more information about providing dental coverage, contact us today. Dental insurance can be employer paid or Employee Paid. Ask me how.Pam Morton, Agency Owner and Broker, Benefits by Design Insurance Services, pamM@benefitsbydesignca.com or at 750-696-3573.
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