INDIANAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As consumers who buy their own health insurance consider their coverage options, UnitedHealthcare’s Golden Rule Insurance Company reminds them to consider their dental care needs as well.

Studies show good oral health is linked to overall good health. Yet, the National Association of Dental Plans reported in 2012 the number of Americans without dental insurance was three times the number of those without health insurance.

Lack of dental care not only affects people’s health, but can add strain to the health care system. According to the American Dental Association, from 2000 to 2010 the number of people without dental coverage who used emergency rooms for dental health issues doubled. Moreover, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that 38 percent of seniors ages 65 and older have not visited a dentist in the past year.

Golden Rule offers consumers five important tips to help evaluate dental plans:

• Understand the benefits of any plan you are considering, including the services that it covers, deductibles, exclusions and coverage limitations, as well as the annual maximum coverage.
• Look for a plan that covers routine preventive care with no deductible required and no waiting period.
• Check the scope of the plan’s network of dental care providers. A large network may mean you can keep your current dentist, plus use your coverage if you have a dental emergency while away from home. Importantly, it can also mean significant savings for you.
• Look for a dental plan with no age restrictions. This will allow you to purchase a plan even if you are over 65, or keep your plan if you purchase before age 65 but then go on Medicare.
• Find a company that allows you to add cost-effective vision coverage to your dental plan.

To learn more about choosing your own dental insurance, click on this video.

UnitedHealthcare’s personal health and dental plans are offered in 47 states and the District of Columbia. The dental plans are underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, a UnitedHealthcare company since 2003. For more information on personal health and dental plans, consumers can call 1-800-444-8990, visit www.goldenrule.com or contact a local independent insurance broker.

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