Dental Insurance

Today more people are opting to invest in their dental health by obtaining dental insurance. There are a variety of plans available for individuals, families, groups and large corporations. Dental insurance plans are generally available in two ways: managed dental plans and dental indemnity. As patients research the plan that best fits their needs and lifestyle, it is important to consider the amount of coverage needed in years to come and the out-of-pocket expenses that may be incurred.

Managed plans are considered to be the most economical, as they often are offered through groups and businesses that contract with insurance companies. The two types of managed plans are:

Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO)

This type of coverage is paid in advance by the client and allows them to select a local dental provider from a network. Clients must select a provider from the given network to receive coverage. As a result, basic dental services, which may include regular exams, cleaning and X-rays, are discounted or offered at no additional cost. Other less common procedures such as crowns, bridgework and dentures may require a more significant co-pay.

Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO)

Like the DHMO, the DPPO is a common type of insurance and involves a larger network of dental care providers. Clients are able to select a dental provider outside the network, but will not receive the same type of coverage and may incur more out-of-pocket expenses.

Dental indemnity allows clients to select the provider of their choice, but they may receive less coverage than the managed plans. For this type of coverage, clients pay a deductible and most providers will pay between 50 percent and 80 percent for basic procedures. This type of coverage usually involves a maximum benefit amount and if a patient exceeds that limit, they will be expected to pay the excess amount.

There are generally more steps and paperwork involved with this type of coverage, as payments are made up front to the providers and may be submitted as a claim to the insurance provider.