Is buying dental and vision insurance actually worth it?

Often the math is close, so it comes down to your expected use. Dental and vision plans are usually low-premium but also low-benefit — annual maximums on dental are frequently around $1,000–$1,500, which one crown or root canal can blow through. Run a simple comparison: add up the year's premiums plus your copays under the plan, versus paying cash for the cleanings, exams, and glasses you actually expect. If you only need routine cleanings and an eye exam, the plan may roughly break even, and paying out of pocket (or from an HSA/FSA) can be just as cheap. The case for buying is stronger if you anticipate major dental work or have kids needing orthodontia. For vision, the benefit is modest unless you buy glasses or contacts yearly. Don't over-insure small, predictable expenses — insurance is most valuable against large, rare costs, which these plans don't really cover.