Green Shield dental insurance: Coverage, cost & review 2024
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Green Shield dental insurance (a part of Green Shiled’s health and dental plans) has garnered attention for its array of offerings, but does it live up to the hype? It is a popular choice among Canadians, but like any insurance provider, it comes with its set of pros and cons.
Whether you're a current policyholder or on the hunt for the ideal dental plan, our insights will help you make an informed decision regarding Green Shield dental insurance. Don't forget to use our free comparator to get instant dental insurance quotes from leading providers.
Green Shield Dental Insurance Canada: 5 key takeaways
- Green Shield offers comprehensive coverage for a range of dental services.
- The plans provide affordability, catering to different budgets with varying cost options.
- Many policyholders have praised Green Shield for its excellent customer service.
- Some customers have raised concerns about lengthy wait times for claims processing.
- Variety of plans: basic coverage, comprehensive benefits, or transitional coverage.
Our 2024 review of Green Shield Dental Insurance Canada
Green Shield Dental Insurance in Canada is known for its comprehensive coverage, offering three main plans: Prism Precision for basic needs, Prism Spectra for comprehensive coverage, and Prism Continuum for those transitioning from a group plan. It must be noted that these are not standalone dental insurance plans but GSC health insurance plans with dental coverage.
It stands out for its variety of options catering to different needs and budgets, but users should be mindful of potential delays in claims processing and limitations in standalone dental insurance.
Here is a summary of the pros and cons of Green Shield Dental Insurance:
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage
- Flexible plans
- Affordable rates
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Long wait times for claims processing
- Difficulty getting pre-approval for certain procedures
- No standalone dental insurance
Overall, Green Shield Dental Insurance is a good option for Canadians who are looking for comprehensive dental coverage at an affordable price. However, customers should be aware of the potential for long wait times for claims processing and difficulty getting pre-approval for certain procedures.
You should shop around and compare quotes from different providers to get the best deal possible. You can do it right here, using our free comparator — click the button below and get hassle-free dental insurance quotes personalized to your age, budget, coverage, and location.
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What does Green Shield dental insurance cover?
Green Shield dental insurance covers the following services, depending on your plan:
Basic Dental Services:
- Preventative cleaning and polishing
- Routine examinations and X-rays
- Fillings and extractions
- Fluoride treatments for children
- Pit and fissure sealants for children
- Space maintainers for children
- General anaesthetics
Comprehensive Basic Dental Services:
- Periodontal treatment, including cleaning and scaling (up to 8 units every 12 months) for gum and mouth tissue care
- Endodontics, including root canal therapy
- Denture services, such as cleaning, repairs, rebasing, and relining
Major Dental Services:
- Dentures, both full and partial
- Standard crown restorations or onlays on natural teeth
- Standard bridges, including pontics and abutment retainers/crowns on natural teeth
- Standard repair or recementing of crowns, onlays, and bridgework on natural teeth
Orthodontic Services: Orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening and bite correction
What are the types of Green Shield dental insurance plans?
There are three main types of Green Shiled’s dental insurance offered under the following health plans:
- Prism Precision
- Prism Spectra
- Prism Continuum
Let’s dig deep into their specific coverage and other details.
Prism Precision: Basic health and dental coverage
Prism Precision is a basic Green Shield health and dental insurance program. This program may be a good option for you if you are looking for a practical alternative for basic coverage for services and treatments that are no longer covered by the government.
There is no medical questionnaire required, and coverage is guaranteed, even for pre-existing conditions.
Prism Precision offers four plans:
| Plan | Coverage in the First 12 Months | Coverage in the Next 12 Months | Coverage Every 12 Months Thereafter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision P1 | |||
| Precision P2 | $250 | ||
| Precision P3 | $500 | $750 | $1,000 |
| Precision P4 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,250 |
Prism Spectra: Comprehensive coverage for individuals and families
Prism Spectra is for those looking for supplemental healthcare coverage that offers a full range of benefits and high-benefit maximums.
You will need to fill in a medical questionnaire to qualify for this coverage. Some plans even cover existing health issues.
Prism Spectra offers four plans:
| Plan | Coverage in the First 12 Months | Coverage in the Next 12 Months | Coverage Every 12 Months Thereafter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spectra S1 | |||
| Spectra S2 | $500 | $750 | $1,000 |
| Spectra S3 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,250 |
| Spectra S4 | $1,000 | $1,250 | $1,750 |
Prism Continuum: For those leaving a company group health plan
Prism Continuum is a Green Shield Dental insurance program that offers guaranteed coverage for anyone up to age 80, even for those with pre-existing medical conditions. This program may be a good option for you if you are leaving a company group health plan or if you don't have health and dental coverage.
No medical questionnaire is required, and coverage is guaranteed if you apply within 90 days of losing your group coverage.
Prism Continuum offers four plans:
| Plan | Coverage in the First 12 Months | Coverage in the Next 12 Months | Coverage Every 12 Months Thereafter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continuum C1 | |||
| Continuum C2 | $600 | $800 | $1,000 |
| Continuum C3 | $750 | $1,000 | $1,250 |
| Continuum C4 | $1,000 | $1,250 | $1,750 |
The above limits reflect the combined maximums per person for basic, comprehensive, and major Services (if applicable). To know about more such as accidental dental coverage and coverage for each type of dental service, download this brochure:
Good to know
If you're looking for standalone dental coverage options, you can also explore Blue Cross Dental Insurance plans. Blue Cross offers dental coverage both as an add-on to the Blue Cross Health insurance plans and as a stand-alone dental plan.
What is the cost of Green Shield dental insurance?
The cost of Green Shield Dental's Prism plans varies depending on your age, location, and the plan that you choose. However, here is a general overview of the cost of each plan:
| Plan | Monthly cost for individuals | The monthly cost for individuals |
|---|---|---|
| Prism Precision | $30-$50 | $60-$100 |
| Prism Spectra | $50-$75 | $100-$150 |
| Prism Continuum | $40-$60 | $80-$120 |
Expert advice
If you are on a budget, you may want to consider a lower-cost plan such as Prism Precision. However, if you are looking for comprehensive coverage, then Prism Spectra or Prism Continuum may be a better option for you.
You can use our comparator to get dental insurance from Green Shield and other leading Canadian companies. Getting personalized quotes based on your age and location is always a good idea to see if a dental insurance plan fits your budget or not.
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How can you buy Green Shield dental insurance?
There are two ways: SureHealth™ and SBIS. Both are convenient ways to purchase Green Shield dental insurance. The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Buy online with SureHealth™
SureHealth™ is a Green Shield Canada online platform that allows you to purchase health and dental insurance plans without having to go through an insurance broker. SureHealth™ is easy to use and offers a variety of plans to choose from.
- To purchase a Green Shield Canada health or dental insurance plan through SureHealth™, simply visit the SureHealth™ website and create an account.
- Once you have created an account, you will be able to compare plans and choose the one that is right for you.
- You can then purchase the plan online and pay your premium using a credit card.
Buy Prism® plans from SBIS
Prism® plans are offered through Special Benefits Insurance Services (SBIS), a licensed insurance broker.
- To purchase a Prism® dental insurance plan, you can contact SBIS directly or visit the SBIS website.
- SBIS will help you choose the right plan for your needs and budget.
- You can then purchase the plan through SBIS and pay your premium using a credit card.
Good to know
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to purchase a Green Shield dental insurance plan, then SureHealth™ is a good option for you. If you are looking for more personalized help choosing a plan, then contacting SBIS is a good option for you.
How to do a Green Shield Dental Insurance claim?
To initiate a dental insurance claim with Green Shield Canada, you'll need to gather essential documentation such as receipts, invoices, and any supporting materials relevant to your medical expenses. Once you've compiled this information, follow the steps outlined below:
- Complete the Green Shield Canada claim form, which is available for download via the link provided below.
- Ensure you have your Green Shield Canada policy number on hand.
- You have two convenient options for submitting your claim form:
- Online Submission: Fill out the claim form and upload it directly to the GSC website. Access this feature by logging into your Green Shield Canada account and navigating to the claims section.
- Mobile Claims: Alternatively, you can make use of the GSC Everywhere mobile app offered by Green Shield Canada. Simply download the app, complete the claim form, and submit it through the app.
If your claim meets the necessary criteria and is approved, you'll receive reimbursement for eligible expenses per your plan's coverage and limits.
Download the claims form here:
How to cancel GSC dental Insurance?
If you wish to cancel your GSC health insurance plan, you have two primary options for contacting them:
- Call the GSC health insurance phone line at 1-888-711-1119. Their customer service team is available to assist you from Monday through Friday, between 8:00 am and 8:30 pm ET.
- Alternatively, you can reach out to Green Shield Canada to discuss the cancellation of your plan by emailing [email protected].
For a more personal touch, you can also schedule an appointment with a representative through the Green Shield Canada website to discuss your cancellation in person.
How to contact Green Shield dental insurance?
There are a couple of ways to get in touch with Green Shield regarding dental insurance queries.
- To receive assistance in choosing the most appropriate Prism plan for your healthcare requirements, you can explore the SBIS website.
- Or, you can get in touch with a customer service representative at Special Benefits Insurance Services at 416-601-0429 or toll-free at 1-800-667-0429.
Before buying any plan, make sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is covered — and what's not covered.
