Guide to Offering Dental Benefits at a Small Business

Shop for low premiums on good plans online

With services that allow you to search for the best rates online, you don't have to go through multiple local sales representatives for quotes.

I recommend: ehealthinsurance.com lets you search for a good plan with a premium you can afford based on your company's size and employees' personal information.

Look into benefit packages offered through buying clubs

Buying clubs that you use to purchase other items for your business are an often-overlooked place to find health and dental benefits as well.

I recommend: Costco offers dental insurance benefits to Executive Members in California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii. Sam's Club's Health Allies plan offers discounts on dental care free for its Plus members and at a low monthly rate for its Business Advantage members.

Offer discount plans instead of traditional insurance

Signing up for a discounted fee-for-service plan means no deductibles or claim forms for employees. These plans aren't insurance, but they do offer discounts on dental and orthodontic services from participating providers.

I recommend: Dentalplans.com can match you with a dental discount plan that works for your business.

Set up your own direct-reimbursement plan

Direct reimbursement (DR) dental plans are benefits made simple. DR is a self-funded program in which your business reimburses employee dental expenses based on a percentage of dollars spend. No insurance companies; less paperwork, employees choose any dentist, and you can get tax breaks, too.

I recommend: The American Dental Association (ADA) offers detailed help and information on setting up such a plan.