The Cost of Dental Care vs. Everyday Expenses: How Insurance Has Fallen Behind
At Pine Ridge Dental in Zimmerman, MN, we’ve seen firsthand how dental insurance coverage has changed over the decades. While costs for essential dental treatments like crowns have risen significantly, insurance benefits have remained stagnant, leaving patients with higher out-of-pocket expenses. To put this into perspective, let’s compare dental crown costs with vehicle costs from 1980 to 2020—and see how inflation should have adjusted dental benefits.
Dental Insurance Coverage: 1980 vs. 2020
In 1980, dental insurance plans typically covered $1,000 per patient annually. By 2020, the average annual maximum benefit was $1,500 per patient. While this may seem like an increase, it does not reflect inflation-adjusted costs.
If dental benefits had kept up with inflation, the $1,000 coverage in 1980 should have been $3,300 in 2020, meaning patients were covering more out-of-pocket expenses than ever before.
Crown Costs: Then vs. Now
- 1980: The average cost of a dental crown in Minnesota was $625–$809.
- 2020: The cost had risen to $800–$2,500. (at PRD our crown fee is between $1100 and 1670)
When adjusted for inflation, a $625 crown in 1980 should have cost around $2,000 in 2020, meaning some patients were paying even more than expected.
Vehicle Costs: A Comparison
- 1980: The average cost of a new car was $15,000.
- 2020: The average cost of a new car had risen to $38,000.
This means vehicle costs more than doubled, while dental crowns saw a similar increase. However, insurance benefits did not keep pace, leaving patients to absorb the rising costs of dental care.
What This Means for Patients
Despite rising costs, insurance benefits have remained relatively stagnant, forcing patients to pay more out-of-pocket for essential dental care. At Pine Ridge Dental, we understand these challenges and work with patients to maximize their benefits while providing high-quality, affordable care.
If you have questions about your dental coverage or want to explore options for managing costs, schedule a consultation today. We’re here to help you navigate the changing landscape of dental care.