The growth and development experienced by the dental benefits industry over the years should lead to a very promising future. While nobody really knows what the future will hold, it is safe to say that the dental benefits industry will adapt to market demands and continue to focus on providing as many people as possible with access to affordable, quality dental care.
The current market research tells us that consumers are becoming increasingly concerned with cost, choice and service. This trend should continue to benefit dental PPO insurance plans and discount dental plans the most. “As with medical benefits, the dental HMO and indemnity markets are expected to decline over the next few years as both dental PPO and discount dental plans become more popular with consumers seeking greater choice and flexibility.”13
Reducing costs and increasing access to care should remain a top priority for the dental benefits industry. “With an estimated 45% of Americans not having any type of dental coverage, and the dental insurance marketplace offering few, affordable dental products for individuals, discount dental plans are an attractive answer to the need to reduce consumer out-of-pocket costs and increase access to care.”13
It is very likely that discount dental plans will continue to increase their share of the dental benefits marketplace. “Discount dental plans have become an economical and important alternative to combat the rising cost of health care. They are a cost-effective vehicle for millions of underserved consumers to improve their access to dental care.”13
Our oral health is not something to be taken for granted. We know that improving and preserving our dental health is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, it is imperative to offer everyone access to affordable, quality dental care. The dental benefit industry has successfully adapted to consumers’ demands in the past and should continue to do so in the future. If the dental benefits industry focuses on continuing to provide affordable and flexible dental benefits, then we can all look forward to a very promising future.
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