Average dental premium costs $350 per year – is that worth it?

The average individual dental premium costs $350 a year and oftentimes patients have to spend more in out-of-pocket costs every year because of the rising prices of dental care, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Here's what you need to know.

1. Most dental premiums emphasize prevention and diagnostics, covering two annual exams and cleanings, as well as additional x-rays for children and older adults. However, dental premiums can also cover larger expenses, such as fillings, root canals and crowns.

2. While dental premiums range from $228 to $384 annually, the average individual pays an additional $500 in out-of-pocket dental expenses.

3. Most dental plans cap coverage at $1,500 a year and unlike health insurance dental plans don't deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.

4. Dental insurance comes in three varieties: health maintenance organizations, preferred provider organizations and indemnity plans.

5. At the end of 2016, around 66 percent of Americans had dental benefits.

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