Indemnity insurance is traditional type of insurance. You pay monthly or yearly premiums and you can use dentist of your choice. There is usually an annual benefits cap--for example, $2,500, and insurance pays a different percentage for different procedures, from 20 to 80 percent. The most significant advantage of this insurance is your personal choice of dentists--a very important feature for many people.

DHMOs are similar to medical HMOs and operate in much same way. Dentists are paid a flat rate to provide dental care for a certain number of patients. Patients pay an annual premium and are usually required to make co-payments for office visits and procedures. Patients do NOT get to choose their own dentist, but they are less expensive than indemnity plans.

PPOs are insurance plans where groups of dentists have agreed to provide discounted services to insured members. Members pay annual premiums and may get preventive care free and pay a certain percentage on other types of procedures. Patients can choose their own dentist, but will have to pay more money to do so.

Dental discount plans have grown remarkably in past few years. Not really insurance, dental discount plans have a network of dentists who have agreed to provide deeply discounted services to group members. Members can routinely save 50 percent on most dental services. The drawback to these plans are that they are somewhat limited in number and may be difficult to find in your area.

Whichever plan you choose, there are many reasons to maintain good dental health. Beyond having a healthy smile to improve your appearance, proper oral hygiene can reduce more serious health problems, including heart disease. You don't want to sacrifice your health for a few pennies a month--it is simply not worth it. There are many plans available for as little as $100 a year, and THAT is a wise investment.