Should I Buy an Individual Dental Policy?

No! Individual dental policies are a poor value. If you have access to a group where the employer pays, then our advice is to take it since there is no expense for you. However, on an individual basis, dental plans are really not worth the money you pay. Most plans have a cap of $1,000-1,500 a year in benefits and only pay 50% of the cost for major services likes crowns, etc. In the first year, they only cover preventative care, but charge you the full premium. At the first renewal (when your limited benefits kick in), they jack up the price. You are just better off budgeting for your regular visits and using your emergency fund for the big stuff if they do occur.