Background

• Dental costs vary depending on an individual's coverage policies (if any), the dentist, and the type of care needed. More complicated operations such as a root canal or specialized services such as orthodontics cost more than a general check-up. There are many insurance options that assist or cover dental care but some low cost dental insurance policies fail to cover general visits or only compensate for part of a more complicated operation.
  
  

Public

• The government provides a number of options for low income earners who need dental coverage or care. Medicare and Medicaid are US health care programs for US citizens with limited income who meet certain eligibility requirements. Plans within Medicare and Medicaid allow individuals to choose and apply for dental health care coverage and aid. Periphery programs such as Healthplex also work with these programs to provide further dental specific options.
  
  

Private

• Individuals can compare and customize private dental coverage options through various administrative services. Private sector employees should also seek employer assistance on either possibly obtaining compensation for insurance and care or selecting and applying for affordable options. Many private dental insurance companies also offer discounts or affordable payment plans for low income individuals.