Dental Insurance Ky Guide for Individuals and Families

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Dental insurance in Kentucky can be a lifesaver for individuals and families who want to maintain good oral health without breaking the bank.

Kentucky residents can choose from a variety of dental insurance plans that cater to different needs and budgets.

Some dental insurance plans in Kentucky offer low premiums, but may have higher out-of-pocket costs when receiving care.

To find the right dental insurance plan, it's essential to research and compare different options carefully.

For another approach, see: Mortgage Insurance vs Hazard Insurance

Types of Dental Insurance

In Kentucky, you can choose from various types of dental insurance plans to suit your needs. Three insurers offer stand-alone individual/family dental coverage through the health insurance marketplace in Kentucky: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, BEST Life, and Paramount Dental.

There are two main types of dental insurance plans: DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) and PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). DHMO plans are often more cost-effective, but you must use dentists within the plan's provider network. PPO plans are typically the most expensive option, but they offer more choice and flexibility.

Here are some key differences between DHMO and PPO plans to consider:

Remember to consider your oral health needs and budget when choosing a dental insurance plan.

Hmo/Managed Care Plan

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A HMO/Managed Care Plan can be a cost-effective option for dental insurance. This type of plan is available in certain states, including CA, FL, NJ, NY, and TX.

With a HMO/Managed Care Plan, you can expect comprehensive coverage and great savings. You'll be part of a network of dentists who have agreed to provide care at a discounted rate.

You'll need to use dentists within the plan's provider network to get the most out of your coverage. If your dentist is already in-network, this could be an excellent choice.

Delta Dental of Kentucky offers affordable dental plans that provide network discounts, resulting in lower out-of-pocket costs. Visiting a Delta Dental dentist can save you money on routine cleanings and other services.

Here are some benefits of a HMO/Managed Care Plan:

  • Routine visits to the dentist can help prevent costly dental bills later on, as well as problems linked to medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
  • If you have a choice of plans, consider your oral health needs and ability to pay for unexpected major services, like a crown.
  • If you have children, consider more comprehensive coverage for less out-of-pocket costs, as well as an option for braces.

Reason to Smile

Dental insurance can help cover costs, but it's also essential to understand what's covered and how to choose the right plan for you.

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Delta Dental of Kentucky has the largest network in Kentucky, with 90% of participating providers, so chances are your dentist is already in their network.

Preventive and diagnostic services like cleanings, x-rays, and exams are 100% covered on all Delta Dental of Kentucky dental plans.

To pick the right plan, think about what services you and your family might need and how much money you can spend.

Routine visits to the dentist help prevent costly dental bills later on, as well as problems linked to medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

If you have a choice of plans, consider your oral health needs and ability to pay for unexpected major services, like a crown.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a dental plan:

  • Preventive services like cleanings and exams are usually 100% covered.
  • Diagnostic services like x-rays may have some out-of-pocket costs.
  • Major services like crowns and braces may have higher out-of-pocket costs or require a higher premium.
  • Comprehensive coverage may be a good option for families with children.

Understanding Coverage

If you're purchasing dental insurance in Kentucky, you'll want to understand what's covered and what's not. Preventative exams, routine teeth cleaning, fillings, and X-rays are typically covered under most dental insurance plans.

Close-up Photo of Dentist Examining Patient's Teeth
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Preventative services are often 100% covered on all Delta Dental of Kentucky dental plans, which is a great perk. However, not all services are covered equally - cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers are never covered by insurance.

Adults and children enrolled in Medicaid in Kentucky are eligible to receive limited dental services such as exams, x-rays, emergency visits, extractions, and fillings.

Typical Services Covered

Preventive exams, routine teeth cleaning, fillings, and X-rays are typically covered under dental insurance plans in Kentucky.

Delta Dental of Kentucky dental plans cover 100% of preventive and diagnostic services like cleanings, x-rays, and exams.

Kentucky's dental insurance plans cover periodontics, endodontics, dentures, bridges, root canals, and other surgical treatments.

Adults and children enrolled in Medicaid in Kentucky are eligible to receive limited dental services such as exams, x-rays, emergency visits, extractions, and fillings.

Children up to age 19 living with families who have income above the eligibility limits for Medicaid are eligible for dental coverage through KCHIP.

Annual Maximum Definition

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An annual maximum is the maximum dollar amount your dental insurance will pay toward the cost of dental services and/or treatment in a benefit plan year.

The annual maximum is typically a 12-month period, and it's essential to understand how it works to avoid unexpected expenses.

Each time a dental claim is submitted, Delta Dental subtracts the cost that has been paid for the service from your maximum.

Your annual maximum applies only to the portion your dental insurance plan pays on your behalf.

Any deductibles or co-pays that you pay do not count towards your annual maximum.

If your plan has a yearly cap of less than $1,500, you're responsible for all costs over $1,500, making it easy to reach your maximum if you require a crown or root canal surgery.

Choosing the Best Plan for Me

Kynect offers certified individual and family dental plans from three insurers, so you have options to consider.

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To pick the right plan, think about what services you and your family might need and how much money you can spend.

A Dental HMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) Plan may be a more cost-effective choice, but you must use dentists in the plan's provider network.

This can be a great option if your dentist is already in-network, but it's essential to check before enrolling.

A Dental PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) Plan is typically the most expensive choice, but it comes 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, which can be a big plus.

You can buy dental insurance outside of Kentucky's exchange, but these plans are not subject to the ACA's essential health benefit rules for pediatric dental coverage.

All Delta Dental Individual and Family plans provide access to the largest dental network in the nation, which can save you money on out-of-pocket expenses.

To find a dentist that's convenient to your home or work, use their online Dentist Search tool, which can help you narrow down your options.

You don't have to use the Marketplace to get dental plans in Kentucky, but if you want to add dental coverage to a Marketplace Health policy, you can only do so during open enrollment and when choosing your policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has the best dental insurance?

Delta Dental offers the best dental insurance, with a comprehensive PPO plan that covers a wide range of services, including braces, implants, and care for older adults.

How do you get dental work if you can't afford it?

Get affordable dental care through local health departments, negotiated payment plans, or financing options like CareCredit, which offer flexible payment plans for dental procedures

Can I get dental insurance and use it right away?

Yes, you can typically use your dental insurance for preventive care right away, but some basic procedures may have a waiting period of 3-6 months. Check your plan details for specific information on what's covered and when.

Does Kynect cover dental?

Yes, Kynect offers dental coverage as part of a health plan or through a separate stand-alone dental plan. You can get dental coverage included in your health plan or purchase it separately for a single monthly premium.

What is the best dental insurance plan?

Delta Dental's Premium PPO plan is considered the best overall dental insurance plan, offering comprehensive coverage with a $2,000 annual maximum benefit and a low $50 deductible.

Ernest Zulauf

Writer

Ernest Zulauf is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for research, Ernest has established himself as a trusted voice in the field of finance and retirement planning. Ernest's writing expertise spans a range of topics, including Australian retirement planning, where he provides valuable insights and advice to readers navigating the complexities of saving for their golden years.

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