How do I add dental and vision coverage?

Adults can’t buy one-size-fits-all insurance that provides medical, dental, and vision coverage. Health plans sold through Connectforhealthco.com for children up to age 19 must offer dental coverage because dental care is considered essential care.

But adults who want dental or vision care need to buy separate policies for dental and vision coverage.

The good news is there are few options and levels to sift through, says Monica Caballeros, Connect for Health Colorado’s strategic communications lead.

Dental plan options

If you want to add dental coverage, now’s the time to do it. If you don’t enroll during the Nov. 1 to Jan. 15 open enrollment period, you can only do so if you have a qualifying life change event like moving, getting married, or having a baby.

In Colorado, you can choose between 11 dental plans offered by Anthem Dental Coverage, Cigna Dental, or Delta Dental.

When choosing a plan, consider what’s covered and what services you need.

Like health plans, dental plans have in-network dentists, and you will pay more if you go outof-network.

Look for plans that offer no to low-cost preventive care, including cleanings and routine X-rays.

Evaluate how the plan covers basic restorative care like fillings and root canals, major restorative care like crowns and bridges, and orthodontia. Some plans have waiting periods before those services are covered. And some plans may only cover orthodontia or braces until the patient is 19.

Vision coverage

In Colorado, customers can enroll in vision plans at any time.

Connect for Health Colorado partners with Vision Service Plan (VSP) to provide eye care insurance.

VSP, the largest not-for-profit vision insurance plan, serves nearly 70 million customers in the

United States.

The company’s insurance works with more than 1,100 eye care professionals in Colorado. Standard benefits include annual exams and an annual $150 allowance for new glasses or contacts.