Pros and Cons of Disability Insurance

Disability insurance is designed to replace a major portion of your income if you are unable to work due to injury or illness. It is different from workers’ compensation coverage, which only pays if you are injured or become ill in a work-related incident. Disability insurance is coverage for your income in the event you cannot work because of something that happened outside of work.

According to the Council on Disability Income and Awareness, approximately 25% of today’s 20-year-olds will become disabled before they reach retirement age.¹ Chronic conditions are the most common cause of disability, with 25% a result of muscle and bone disorders such as back problems, joint pain, and muscle pain.¹ Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common reasons for disability claims.^2,3 Dental hygienists are especially at risk for MSDs due to the repetitive work and compromised posture for prolonged periods when treating patients.

Disability insurance may be prudent for dental hygienists because the right policy can replace your after-tax income if an injury or illness leaves you suddenly unable to work. It can be especially important if you have dependents who rely on your income.

There are three types of disability insurance: short-term, long-term, and accident-only. Short-term disability policies typically provide coverage for 3, 6, or 12 months after a short waiting period. Long-term disability insurance has a typical waiting period of 90 days, after which benefits are paid for anywhere from 2 years to retirement. The accident-only insurance pays benefits if there is a disability due to an accident. Most oral health professionals choose long-term disability as it can replace your income for years — even up until  retirement age if you can never work again.

Factors to consider when deciding on disability insurance are the likelihood of a hand-related disability and emergency savings. Carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain injuries, or other hand-related conditions are common risks for dental hygienists. If a policy covers these, it could be worth the investment. In addition, evaluate if you have enough savings to cover 3 or more months of living expenses in case you cannot work. If not, disability insurance might serve as a critical backup.

Dental hygienists rely heavily on their physical health, especially their hands, neck, and back. If an injury or illness prevents you from working, disability insurance provides a means to protect your income. Many disability insurance policies for healthcare professionals, including dental hygienists, offer specialized coverage called “own-occupation” coverage. This means you will receive benefits if you are unable to perform the specific duties of a hygienist, even if you could work in another capacity. Lastly, even with the 3-month waiting period, receiving a payout after that time can prevent financial strain during a long-term disability and provide financial peace of mind.

On the other hand, disability insurance premiums can be expensive, particularly for policies with good coverage and short elimination periods. The cost may outweigh the coverage provided. Additionally, the 3-month waiting period means you will need to rely on savings or another income source for short-term disabilities.

If you are considering purchasing disability insurance, make sure you carefully read the policy details and consult an insurance broker or financial advisor who specializes in healthcare professionals. They can help you assess whether the policy is appropriate for your risks and needs. A good disability insurance policy will protect you financially even if you are unable to work for years. Compare quotes from multiple disability insurance providers including those provided by your national professional association.

References

1. Council for Disability Income Awareness. Chances of Disability. Available at disabilitycanhappen.org/overview. Accessed November 20, 2025.
2. Integrated Benefits Institute. Health and Productivity Benchmarking 2019 Short-Term Disability, All Employers. Condition-Specific Results. Available at ibiweb.org/research-resources/leave-benchmarking-publications. Accessed November 20, 2025.
3. Integrated Benefits Institute. Health and Productivity Benchmarking 2019 Long-Term Disability, All Employers. Condition-Specific Results. Available at https://www.ibiweb.org/research-resources/leave-benchmarking-publications. Accessed November 20, 2025.

From Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. January/February 2026; 24(1):46