What are the dental and vision options for the self-employed?
Self-employed buyers can add a standalone private dental plan and a standalone vision plan directly from a carrier or broker, either alongside an off-exchange medical plan or through the Marketplace where dental is sold as a separate plan (HealthCare.gov — Dental Coverage).
Reviewed by Jason Burns, Editor & Steward · Last verified 2026-07-19
What it means
- Dental and vision are typically sold as separate policies from major medical.
- Family dental plans commonly have waiting periods for major services.
Action steps
- Compare annual maximums, waiting periods, and orthodontic coverage before enrolling.
- Coordinate the effective date with the medical plan renewal.
Risks & deadlines
- Dental and vision are not required to be included in an ACA-compliant medical plan for adults.
Sources
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