What Is a Dental Membership Plan and How Does It Work?
A dental membership plan is an in-office savings program that provides preventive care and discounted treatment for a flat annual fee.
At Smith Dentalworks, patients who do not carry dental insurance can enroll in a simple, transparent program that removes deductibles, waiting periods, and annual maximums. Instead of navigating insurance approvals, members pay one yearly fee and receive included preventive services plus 20 percent savings on most in-office procedures.
This approach creates predictable costs and makes it easier to prioritize oral health.
Why Do Many Patients Choose a Membership Plan Instead of Insurance?
Many patients want straightforward pricing without hidden limitations.
Traditional insurance often includes waiting periods, yearly caps, and pre-authorizations. An in-office dental savings plan eliminates those barriers. There are no deductibles, no annual maximum, and no claim forms to manage.
For families, retirees, and self-employed individuals in Oro Valley, this structure provides clarity and financial control.
What Is Included in the Smith Dentalworks Standard Plan?
The Standard Membership Plan focuses on prevention while offering savings on restorative and cosmetic procedures.
Included services:
- Two professional cleanings per year
- Two doctor examinations per year
- Two oral cancer screenings per year
- Routine X-rays as needed
- One emergency exam per year
- 20 percent savings on in-office procedures such as crowns, fillings, dentures, night guards, and Invisalign
The annual fee is $399.
For children under 14, the Child Plan is $349 and includes fluoride treatments.
Patients who require additional periodontal maintenance may qualify for the Periodontal Plan at $599 per year, which includes additional periodontal cleanings.
A one-time $25 administration fee applies.
How Much Can You Actually Save?
Preventive visits alone can offset much of the membership fee. Cleanings, exams, and X-rays are included at no additional cost under the plan.
For patients needing restorative treatment, the 20 percent savings can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Procedures such as fillings and crowns become more manageable when the discount is applied.
Because there is no annual maximum, patients can move forward with needed treatment without worrying about insurance caps.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Dental Membership Plan?
You may benefit from a dental membership plan if you:
- Do not have dental insurance
- Are self-employed or retired
- Want predictable yearly dental expenses
- Need ongoing periodontal maintenance
- Prefer simplified pricing without claim approvals
The plan is exclusively honored at Smith Dentalworks and is designed for patients committed to receiving care in our Oro Valley office.
Are There Any Limitations to Consider?
Yes. Transparency matters.
Membership cannot be combined with other dental insurance coverage. Discounts apply only to in-office procedures and do not extend to referrals outside the practice. General anesthesia and certain specialty services may not qualify for plan savings. Membership and treatment fees cannot be paid using CareCredit.
Full enrollment payment is required before treatment begins.
Why Preventive Dentistry Is a Smart Financial Decision
Preventive dental care reduces the risk of larger, more expensive procedures in the future. Routine exams allow early detection of decay, gum disease, and oral health concerns before they progress.
A membership plan encourages consistency. When preventive care is already included, patients are more likely to stay on schedule and protect their long-term oral health.
At Smith Dentalworks, the goal is to make high-quality, personalized dentistry accessible in a comfortable, spa-like setting while helping patients maintain confident, healthy smiles. If you would like to learn more about our membership options or determine which plan is right for you, contact us to speak with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a dental membership plan and insurance?
Insurance involves premiums, deductibles, and annual limits. A membership plan is a direct savings program through the dental office with no waiting periods or annual caps.
Can I use the membership plan if I already have dental insurance?
No. Patients enrolled in the membership plan cannot carry additional dental insurance coverage.
Does the plan include cosmetic procedures?
Members receive 20 percent savings on most in-office procedures, including cosmetic treatments and Invisalign.
When do I pay for the membership?
The annual membership fee must be paid in full before treatment begins.
Is the membership refundable?
The membership is non-refundable and non-transferable.
