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The importance of employer dental benefits: FAQ

employer dental benefits

As the Great Resignation continues, the importance of employer dental benefits has skyrocketed. A Forbes study found that 8% of respondents with health insurance left a job they liked because they wanted better health coverage. To help you prevent turnover and reinforce the importance of offering robust employee benefits, we’ve put together answers to frequently asked questions. Consider it a quick refresher on the importance of employer dental benefits.

Why should I offer employer dental benefits?

It is relatively inexpensive to include dental benefits in an employer’s benefits plan, and it may help the employer attract and retain highly skilled employees. According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, employees made dental or vision insurance the third most important benefit in making a job decision. 

Because dental hygiene is associated with overall health, employees with dental plans are often healthier. Employees without dental benefits may postpone or forgo dentist visits in order to save money, and as a result, they can end up with more severe health problems. This may cost an employer more in the long run than if dental benefits were offered.

How do I find the best dental plan?

Various types of dental plans are available. An employer should select one that fits their budget and meets their employees’ needs. Traditional dental insurance plans, e.g. managed care and fee-for-service, and consumer-driven dental plans, e.g. dental flexible spending accounts, are becoming more popular.

Are there cost-sharing options available?

Employers who are concerned about the cost of offering dental benefits may consider sharing the cost with employees through deductibles, coinsurance and setting maximum amounts that the company will pay per individual in a specific time period. When designing a dental insurance plan, aim for a plan that is cost-effective and valuable to the company and its employees.

Benefits recap: What’s your next step?

The decision to offer dental benefits is a business decision. Employers should consider their culture and values as an organization and whether such benefits can help attract and retain valued employees. While dental benefits are an added expense, offering these benefits may save the employer money over time.

If you need help designing or reviewing your current dental, vision or health plan offerings, contact HANYS Benefit Services today. Our dedicated team of experts can help you review your current or future plan options, providing you with comprehensive solutions that make sense for your organization.  

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