Golden West Dental & Vision has been known to offer bundled dental and vision benefit plans with tiered options designed to lower out-of-pocket costs for routine exams and common procedures. Historical plan names included SmileChoice 100 and 200. Because plan details, pricing, and enrollment rules change, verify current coverage, fees, networks, and exclusions directly with the provider.

Why consider dental and vision benefits

Poor diet, smoking, and caffeine can accelerate tooth staining and oral health problems. Regular preventive care reduces long-term costs and avoids embarrassing situations. Dental and vision benefit programs that bundle services can make routine care more accessible for individuals and families.

What Golden West historically offered

Golden West Dental & Vision has long been presented as a California provider of combined dental and vision benefits. Historically, the plans were marketed in two tiers (commonly called SmileChoice Plan 100 and SmileChoice Plan 200) that aimed to lower out-of-pocket costs for exams, basic procedures, and some major services, while also including basic vision benefits such as eye exams and lens discounts.

Typical savings and benefit features (check for current details)

Members were often able to get substantial savings compared with non-member fees for routine exams and common procedures (for example, fillings, crowns, or endodontic work). Plan materials from the past also emphasized convenience features such as simplified enrollment, minimal paperwork, and flexible payment options. Specifics vary by plan and over time, so confirm current fee schedules, annual maximums, and coverage limits directly with the provider. 1

Vision benefits

Some combined dental/vision plans included coverage or discounts for routine vision services: eye exams, lenses, coatings, and frames. If a bundled vision benefit is important, check the current plan language to confirm which eye services are covered and whether they come with copays or discounts. 2

Enrollment and customer service

Legacy descriptions highlighted easy enrollment, small application fees, and multiple payment methods. These administrative details change frequently; verify current enrollment steps, waiting periods, and whether there are any pre-existing condition exclusions before you enroll. 3

How to verify current plan details

Contact Golden West Dental & Vision directly and request the most recent plan brochure or summary of benefits. Compare the current fee schedule and network list to local providers. Ask specifically about: current plan names and tiers; covered services and exclusions; annual maximums and waiting periods; and premium, billing options, and any application fees. 4

Bottom line

Bundled dental and vision plans can offer value for routine preventive care and common procedures. Golden West historically positioned itself as a California provider with two tiered options to reduce out-of-pocket costs, but plan names, pricing, and specific benefits must be confirmed with the carrier before purchasing.
  1. Confirm that Golden West Dental & Vision is actively offering plans as of 2025 and note any corporate name changes.
  2. Verify current plan names and tiers (e.g., whether SmileChoice Plan 100 and 200 still exist or have been renamed).
  3. Obtain the latest fee schedule to confirm current pricing for exams, root canals, crowns, and vision services.
  4. Check current coverage details: deductibles, annual maximums, waiting periods, and pre-existing condition rules.
  5. Confirm the current vision benefit components (eye exam coverage, lenses, coatings, frames) and any copays or discounts.
  6. Verify current enrollment process, application fees, accepted payment methods, and whether claims/forms are required.

FAQs about Golden West Dental Insurance

Does Golden West cover both dental and vision services?
Historically, Golden West offered combined dental and vision benefits. Coverage specifics (which eye services and dental procedures are included) vary by plan and date - confirm the current plan brochure with the provider.
Are there common out‑of‑pocket savings compared with non‑member fees?
Older plan materials reported substantial savings for members on exams and many procedures. Exact savings depend on the current fee schedule and the provider you visit, so request up-to-date pricing from Golden West.
Can I enroll online and what are the payment options?
Legacy information suggested easy enrollment, multiple payment methods, and a small application fee. Enrollment steps and payment options change, so confirm the current process with customer service.
Are there waiting periods or pre‑existing condition limits?
Past descriptions claimed minimal limitations, but waiting periods and exclusions vary by plan and over time. Always check the current policy documents for any waiting periods or exclusions.
How do I confirm a dentist or eye care provider accepts the plan?
Ask Golden West for the current provider network list and verify with the dentist or optician before scheduling care. Provider participation can change, so confirm for each visit.