Dental and vision insurance employees actually use
Dental and vision round out a benefits package with coverage people use every year, from routine cleanings to new glasses. We help you choose plans that fit your workforce and budget, alongside medical or on their own.
Everyday value for a modest cost
Dental and vision are among the most used benefits in any package. Unlike major medical, which employees hope they never need, they deliver tangible value every year.
For employers they're a cost-effective way to strengthen the overall package: relatively affordable, widely appreciated, and helpful in competing for talent without a large increase in the benefits budget.
What dental and vision plans typically cover
Dental insurance
From routine cleanings to major restorative work, dental coverage helps employees maintain oral health while managing out-of-pocket costs.
- Preventive care — cleanings, exams and X-rays, typically covered at 100%
- Basic services — fillings, extractions and root canals at 80%
- Major services — crowns, bridges and dentures at 50%
- Orthodontia — braces for children and adults (select plans)
- Annual maximums — $1,000 to $2,500+ per person
Vision insurance
Exams, eyewear and corrective procedures — especially valuable for computer-heavy workplaces.
- Annual comprehensive eye exams
- Frame allowance every 12–24 months
- Single, bifocal and progressive lenses
- Contact lens allowance, in lieu of glasses
- LASIK discounts
Plan structures to match your budget
PPO dental
See any dentist, with higher reimbursement in network. No referrals required for specialists.
DHMO dental
Lower premiums with a designated primary dentist and fixed copays — for employees who prefer predictable costs.
Indemnity dental
Traditional fee-for-service plans: any dentist, straightforward reimbursement and the most freedom of choice.
Full-service vision
Exams, frames, lenses and contacts with generous allowances and wide provider networks.
Exam-plus plans
Annual exams with modest eyewear allowances, at lower premiums.
Discount vision
Not insurance, but discounted rates at participating providers — a low-cost option for budget-conscious employers.
Why dental and vision belong in your package
Attract talent
Candidates expect dental and vision as part of a complete benefits package.
Prevent problems
Regular dental exams catch issues early, and eye exams can detect diabetes and hypertension.
Cost effective
Premiums are low compared with medical — strong value for a modest investment.
Tax benefits
Employer contributions are tax-deductible, and employee premiums can be pre-tax through a Section 125 plan.
Bundle for simpler administration
Many employers bundle dental and vision with medical for streamlined administration and potential savings: single billing, possible bundle discounts, simpler enrollment and coordinated effective dates. Whether bundling or standalone plans offer better value depends on your carrier options, employee demographics and budget — we'll help you compare.
Medical + dental + vision
A complete healthcare package from a single carrier.
Dental + vision standalone
Add to existing medical or offer independently.
Voluntary benefits
Employee-paid options through payroll deduction.
Common questions about dental and vision coverage
Can we offer dental without medical?
What's the typical waiting period?
How much do these benefits cost?
Can employees add family members?
Ready to add dental and vision benefits?
We'll compare carriers, explain your options and help make enrollment easy.
Plan descriptions, coinsurance percentages, waiting periods and cost ranges are general examples for education, not quotes or a statement of coverage. Benefits, networks, premiums and eligibility vary by carrier and plan and are governed by the terms of the plans issued. Tax treatment depends on your plan setup; consult a tax advisor.