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SafeGuard HMO vs MetLife Max Plus?

I am currently regarded as a dependent under my dad's dental insurance (SafeGuard HMO). I visited the dentist yesterday and I need treatment totaling out to $2700. I'm thinking I should get a second opinion under a different insuarance. Would it be cheaper if I moved to my own employer's insurance (MetLife Max Plus)? Does anyone know if this is a good insurance company? Will I be paying less?? I've had bad experiences in the past with dental offices charging me A LOT. I've learned my lesson, and now I'm weary about any work that is "required" to be done on my teeth.

Public Comments

1. The best would be to get a second opinion from another doctor on your dads plan. (Get a providers list and ask around with family and friends and see if there is anyone else they recommend that is on that list). About changing plans. All insurance companies differ by employer. You can always get a print out of coverage from your HR director as to estimated premiums and coverage. You can compare that to what your dad's insurance company covers. Insurance companies can be a pain in the butt sometimes, but I would at least start with a second opinion form another doctor. You are right, there are a lot of them that are in it for money because of the economy and all.... so just be careful. Many dentists will provide a free consultation as well, you just have to call around. Go with your gut instinct though! Usually it will be right... (like if the office is kept up nice, or all the employees are just hanging out and goofing off....) Just be careful! Good luck to you!!!
2. Absolutely get a second opinion with a different dentist. Also ask the dentist to submit a pre-treatment estimate to SafeGuard - along with your x-rays. You should do that for any dental treatment estimated to be over $200, it will give you an idea upfront what your out-of-pocket will be and what may / may not be covered by your insurance plan. As for switching, be cautious of pre-existing condition clauses. This should not be an issue since you have current coverage, but be sure to have your Human Resources Benefit rep ask the broker - and get it in writing from the broker (they are an extension of the insurance company)! Also make sure that your dentist is a preferred provider with MetLife. That will make a difference on your-out-of-pocket. Use this link and go to the bottom to the Dental Center to search by zip code. http://www.metlife.com/individual/index.html?WT.ac=GN_individual Another thing to keep in mind is that SafeGuard DHMO is now a part of the MetLife family. Although the benefits should not have changed at this time, they may in the future. Good luck.