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June 14, 2016

Dental savings plans, sometimes called discount dental plans, are an alternative to dental insurance. If you sign up, you'll have access to a network of dentists in your area who participate in the plan. These dentists offer you their services at discounted fees. Discounts can vary greatly, ranging from 10% to 60% off of regular prices.

A dental savings plan is similar to what you would receive through a club membership. "It's like going to Sam's or Costco," says Evelyn Ireland, executive director at the National Association of Dental Plans.

You pay an annual fee for the plan. In return, you can expect to have discounts when you need dental services during the upcoming year.

The cost of a dental savings plan generally ranges from $100 to $200 a year, says Taffy Wagner, president of Own Your Own Health Care LLC. The price is based on the discounts and services available through the plan.

The exact discount you'll receive is usually determined by a fee schedule. This is a list of the procedures the plan covers as well as the amount a participating dentist can charge for each procedure. The savings you get consists of the difference between what the dentist would normally charge and what you actually pay.

Bankrate