The Explorer Winter 2018 Spring Final | Page 8

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN OFFERING DISCOUNT DENTAL PLANS ® By Greg Alterton, CDA Dental Benefit Plan Specialist Reprinted with permission from California Dental Association An option that some dentists have offered to make care available to patients is a discount dental plan. Discount dental plans operate much like Costco or other large membership retailers: a membership fee is charged for the ability to purchase services at a discount below the standard customary fees charged for dental care. Discount dental plans are not insurance. One who subscribes to a discount dental plan is not purchasing a defined package of benefits. A dentist does not file a claim for treatment provided