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Arkansas dental insurance can be a bit confusing, but don't worry, we've got you covered.
There are several options available for individuals and families in Arkansas, including private insurance plans, Medicaid, and the Arkansas Health Connector.
Some plans may have waiting periods before coverage begins, so it's essential to review the terms and conditions carefully.
Arkansas has a state-run health insurance marketplace, the Arkansas Health Connector, which offers a range of plans from various insurance companies.
You can purchase a plan through the Health Connector website or by working with a licensed insurance agent.
Types of Plans
In Arkansas, you have several options when it comes to dental insurance plans. The most popular types of dental insurance coverage are DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) and PPO dental plans (Preferred Provider Organization).
DHMO plans are a more cost-effective option, where you pay less on premiums but must use dentists in the plan's provider network. If your dentist is already in-network, this could be an excellent choice.
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PPO plans, on the other hand, are typically the most expensive choice, but they come with more choice and the opportunity to pick a dentist you prefer. If you require specialist care, you won't need to see your regular dentist for a referral.
Here are the three main types of dental plans available in Arkansas:
- PPOs: Allow you to see any dentist or dental service provider you want, but you'll pay less for your treatment if you choose an in-network provider.
- DHMOs: Only offer coverage for dentists and dental service providers within the organization's pre-approved network, giving you fewer dentist choices but at a lower cost.
- Dental discount or referral plans: Aren't technically a type of insurance, and don't pay for any of your treatment costs, but offer a discount on treatments and procedures.
A PPO Plan
A PPO plan offers the most flexibility in choosing a dentist, but it's also the most expensive option. This type of plan allows you to see any dentist you want, but you'll pay less if you stay within the plan's network.
You'll pay lower rates if you choose an in-network dentist, but you can still see a dentist outside of the network if needed. In fact, with a PPO plan, you won't need to get a referral from your primary dentist to see a specialist.
Some PPO plans, like Spirit Dental's Spirit Flex plans, offer better out-of-network coverage, so you can still get quality care even if you don't see an in-network dentist.
Here are the main benefits of a PPO plan at a glance:
- Most flexibility in choosing a dentist
- Pays lower rates for in-network care
- No referral needed to see a specialist
- Better out-of-network coverage with some plans
Flexible Plans
You can choose from a variety of dental plans that fit your budget, with options like the Spirit Pinnacle PPO plan offering one of the highest annual max coverage at $5,000 after just two years.
As a Spirit member, you'll enjoy plans with 3 preventive cleanings to keep your smile strong and protected, which is one more than typical plans offer.
In Arkansas, you can compare and choose between six dental plans to meet your needs and match your budget.
Spirit PPO plans offer instant savings of 25-50% for all dental services through their top network with Ameritas, so you can save even more on top of your plan benefits.
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Plan Costs and Benefits
The average cost of dental insurance in Arkansas is around $26 per month, or about $317 per year. This cost can vary depending on several factors, including your location, coverage levels, overall dental health, and annual maximums.
Your location plays a significant role in determining the cost of dental insurance, with different areas having varying rates. You can expect to pay more for dental insurance in certain parts of the state.
If you're looking for more affordable options, consider purchasing a policy through the exchange in Arkansas, which offers premiums ranging from $15 to $61 per month for adults. Alternatively, you can opt for a DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) plan, which may be more cost-effective, especially if your dentist is already in-network.
Cost-Effective PPO Benefits
The average cost of dental insurance in Arkansas is around $26 per month or $317 per year.
You can expect to pay less on premiums with a DHMO plan, but you'll have to use dentists in the plan's provider network. This could be a great choice if your dentist is already in-network.
A PPO plan is typically the most expensive option, but it comes with more choice and the opportunity to pick a dentist you prefer. You'll also have the flexibility to see specialists without needing a referral.
With a Spirit Dental PPO plan, you can enjoy reduced rates of 25-50% for all dental services, including preventive cleanings. This can lead to instant savings on top of your plan benefits.
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The cost of dental insurance in Arkansas can vary depending on several factors, including the type of plan, coverage options, provider network, location, and individual or family enrollment. Basic dental insurance plans can start from $14.93 to $25.88 per month per individual.
You can explore a variety of dental insurance plans tailored to your needs with Spirit Dental, including plans with 3 preventive cleanings and high annual max coverage. This can help you keep your smile strong and protected while staying within your budget.
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Are Stand-Alone Pediatric Plans ACA-Compliant?
Stand-alone pediatric dental plans on the exchange are ACA-compliant, meaning they comply with the ACA's pediatric dental coverage rules. This includes no cap on medically necessary pediatric dental benefits.
Out-of-pocket costs for pediatric dental care will not exceed $400 per child in 2024, or $800 for all children on a family's plan.
These plans are guided by the state's essential health benefits benchmark plan, which includes coverage for basic and major dental services for children.
In Arkansas, you can see details about the benchmark plan, which includes coverage for both basic and major dental services for children.
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Plan Enrollment and Options
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You can enroll in a dental plan with Spirit Dental online, by live chat, or over the phone. Our licensed experts are here to guide you through the process.
You can run a quote online and compare plans directly from our website. This makes it easy to find the best plan for your needs and budget.
Our dental plans have next-day effective dates, so you can enroll today and have coverage begin as soon as tomorrow. This means you can get the protection you need quickly.
You can also choose the date you'd like the plan to begin, giving you flexibility and control over when your coverage starts.
Spirit Dental offers a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets, including plans with high annual max coverage, such as the Spirit Pinnacle PPO plan, which offers $5,000 after only two years.
In Arkansas, you can choose from six dental plans to find the one that's right for you.
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Insurance Providers and Marketplace
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If you're looking for dental insurance in Arkansas, it's essential to know which providers offer coverage through the marketplace. In 2025, three insurers offer stand-alone individual/family dental coverage through the health insurance marketplace in Arkansas.
These insurers are Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Delta Dental of Arkansas, and Truassure Insurance Company. You can purchase these plans through HealthCare.gov during open enrollment or a special enrollment period triggered by a qualifying life event.
You can find more information about these plans and their prices on HealthCare.gov.
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Marketplace Insurers
In the Arkansas marketplace, there are three insurers that offer stand-alone individual/family dental coverage.
These insurers are Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Delta Dental of Arkansas, and Truassure Insurance Company.
You can purchase these plans through HealthCare.gov during open enrollment, which runs from November 1 to January 15, or during a special enrollment period triggered by a qualifying life event.
Exchange-certified stand-alone dental plans are compliant with the ACA's rules for pediatric dental coverage.
Here are the insurers that offer dental coverage through the Arkansas marketplace:
- Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Delta Dental of Arkansas
- Truassure Insurance Company
Medicaid and Chip
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Medicaid and CHIP provide essential coverage for low-income individuals and families. Adults enrolled in Medicaid in Arkansas are eligible to receive up to $500 in annual dental services.
Children under 21 can receive comprehensive dental benefits through Medicaid. ARKids First, a combination CHIP program, provides dental coverage to children and some women with income above the eligibility limits for Medicaid.
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Plan Details and Features
There are two popular types of dental insurance plans available in Arkansas: DHMO and PPO plans. A DHMO plan can be a more cost-effective option, but you must use dentists within the plan's provider network.
You can choose between six dental plans in Arkansas to meet your needs and budget. Spirit Dental offers a range of plans with comprehensive coverage for major dental services.
Spirit Dental plans offer 3 preventive cleanings per year, one more than typical plans offer. This can help keep your smile strong and protected.
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Some plans, like the Spirit Pinnacle PPO plan, offer high annual max coverage of up to $5,000 after two years.
The most common dental benefits schedule is the "100-80-50" schedule, which means your insurance will pay for:
- 100% of the cost of preventive treatments, including exams, X-rays, and cleanings.
- 80% of the cost of basic procedures, including cavity fillings, root canals, and crowns.
- 50% of the cost of major procedures, including dentures, bridges, and implants.
Spirit Dental offers a top network with Ameritas, providing reduced rates of 25-50% for all dental services. This can lead to instant savings on top of your plan benefits.
With Spirit Dental, you can get dental insurance with no waiting periods, providing instant coverage from day one. This means you can use your insurance right away, whether it's for an unexpected toothache or a scheduled cleaning.
A deductible is a set amount of money you need to spend on your own dental treatments before your insurance kicks in. Look for a plan with a deductible that you can afford to get the most out of your insurance coverage.
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Here are some key benefits to look for in a dental insurance provider:
- A deductible that you can afford: Your deductible is a set amount of money you need to spend on your own dental treatments before your insurance kicks in.
- High yearly maximums: Most dental insurance plans have yearly caps on the amount of money you can save on treatments.
- Availability in your area: Make sure your insurance provider is able to sell plans in Arkansas before you enroll.
- Quality customer service: You need to know that the insurance company can explain anything to you, answer your questions, and deal with claims in a professional and friendly manner.
Plan Comparison and Selection
You can compare and choose between six dental plans to meet your needs and match your budget in Arkansas.
Spirit Dental offers a selection of affordable dental insurance plans, catering to a variety of needs while focusing on comprehensive coverage for major dental services.
The most popular types of dental insurance coverage in Arkansas are DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) and PPO dental plans (Preferred Provider Organization).
With Spirit Dental, you can enjoy plans with 3 preventive cleanings, one more than typical plans offer, to keep your smile strong and protected.
The Spirit Pinnacle PPO plan offers one of the highest available annual max coverage at $5,000 after only two years.
To explore Spirit Dental plans in detail and find the one that fits your needs, you can run a quote online, compare plans, and purchase directly from their website, or live chat with one of their licensed experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is dental care insurance?
Dental insurance premiums typically range from $20-$50 per month. Find an affordable plan that meets your oral health needs and budget.
Is Humana offered in Arkansas?
Yes, Humana offers dental plans in Arkansas, with various options available for budget-friendly premiums and low office-visit copays. View plans and prices in your area to find the best fit for your needs.
What is the most dental insurance will cover?
Most dental insurance plans cover 100% of preventive care, such as cleanings and exams. Basic coverage typically includes 100% of simple procedures like fillings and extractions.
Does dental insurance cover the full cost?
No, full coverage dental plans do not cover 100% of the costs, but they do provide comprehensive coverage for various procedures.
Which is the best dental insurance to have?
Delta Dental is considered the best overall dental insurance, offering comprehensive coverage at an affordable price, including options for those with braces, implants, or older adults. Its Premium PPO plan features a $2,000 annual maximum benefit and a $50 deductible.
Sources
- https://www.simplyinsurance.com/best-dental-insurance-arkansas/
- https://www.healthinsurance.org/dental/arkansas-dental-insurance-guide/
- https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/product/state/arkansas-dental-insurance.html
- https://spiritdental.com/arkansas-dental-insurance
- https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-arkansas-dental-insurance
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