
Dental insurance in Montana is a must-have for individuals and families who want to protect their teeth and wallets.
There are two main types of dental insurance plans available in Montana: group plans and individual plans.
Group plans are often offered through employers, but if you're self-employed or don't have access to a group plan, you can purchase an individual plan.
In Montana, individual dental insurance plans can be purchased through the health insurance marketplace during open enrollment, which typically runs from November to January.
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Cost and Coverage
The cost of dental insurance in Montana can vary depending on several factors. The average cost is around $32 per month or $379 per year, but this can change based on your choice of dental benefits, tobacco usage, the number of people covered, and location.
Your location plays a significant role in determining the cost of your dental insurance. The insurance provider considers where you reside when setting your rates.

Dental insurance plans in Montana cover a range of services, including preventative exams, routine teeth cleaning, fillings, and X-rays. They may also include periodontics, endodontics, dentures, bridges, root canals, and other surgical treatments.
You can expect to pay less for dental services if you have a plan with negotiated fees, which can be 35-50% less than the average cost. This is especially true for MetLife members.
Here are some key factors that influence the cost of Montana dental insurance plans:
Ultimately, it's essential to choose a plan that suits your needs and budget. With the right plan, you can enjoy low out-of-pocket costs and maintain good oral health.
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Types of Plans
In Montana, you have several options for dental insurance coverage, whether you're purchasing for yourself or your entire family. The most popular types of dental insurance coverage are DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) and PPO dental plans (Preferred Provider Organization).
DHMO plans may be a more cost-effective option, with lower premiums but a requirement to use dentists in the plan's provider network. This could be an excellent choice if your dentist is already in-network.
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PPO plans, on the other hand, are typically the most expensive option but offer more choice and flexibility to pick a dentist you prefer. With a PPO plan, you won't need a referral to see a specialist, and you can choose any dentist in the network.
Here are the key differences between DHMO and PPO plans:
Hmo/Managed Care Plan
An HMO/Managed Care Plan can be a cost-effective option, with lower premiums but a requirement to use dentists within the plan's provider network. This can be a great choice if your dentist is already in-network.
You'll pay less on premiums, but you'll need to stick with the plan's network of dentists. This is often a good option for people who have a regular dentist they see regularly.
Some popular states that offer HMO/Managed Care Plans include California, Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Texas. These plans often offer comprehensive coverage and great savings.
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Here's a breakdown of the benefits you can expect from an HMO/Managed Care Plan:
Keep in mind that HMO/Managed Care Plans may not offer the same level of flexibility as other types of plans. However, they can be a great option for people who want to save money on their dental care.
What Are Discount Plans?
Discount plans are a type of membership program that helps individuals and families save money on dental care. They're not considered insurance, but rather a way to get discounted rates on various dental procedures.
Plan members can save anywhere from 10-60% on the typical cost of dental care, which is a significant amount considering the average costs of dental procedures. For example, a periodic oral evaluation can cost as much as $52, but with a discount plan, it can be reduced to $28.50.
A key benefit of discount plans is that they often have a large network of dentists, usually over 100,000, so you can choose from a wide range of providers.
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Insurance Options

If you're a resident of Montana, you have several options to consider when it comes to dental insurance. AARP members can find AARP dental insurance in Montana, while those looking for a marketplace plan can learn more about their Health Care Exchange (Marketplace) choices.
You may also be eligible for a federal dental plan, such as FEDVIP, which offers comprehensive coverage for federal employees, annuitants, and retired uniformed service members and their families. FEDVIP plans highlight 100% coverage for in-network cleanings and exams, no waiting periods for most major procedures, and orthodontia coverage for children up until age 19.
Delta Dental Plans Association offers various plans, including a Dental HMO (DHMO) and a Dental PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plan. A DHMO may be a more cost-effective option, but you'll need to use dentists in the plan's provider network. A Dental PPO plan, on the other hand, offers more choice and flexibility, but is typically the most expensive option.
Alternatives
If you're looking for alternatives to traditional dental insurance in Montana, there are a few options to consider.
AARP members can find AARP dental insurance in Montana, which may offer additional benefits and discounts.
The most popular alternative to Montana dental insurance is a dental discount plan or a prepaid dental plan.
These alternatives can provide significant cost savings, but it's essential to understand the limitations and exclusions that apply.
According to Mayo Clinic, oral health is a window to your overall health, making regular dental care a crucial aspect of your overall well-being.
Here are some key differences between traditional dental insurance and dental discount plans or prepaid dental plans:
- Dental Discount Plans: These plans offer discounted rates on dental procedures with a network of participating dentists.
- Prepaid Dental Plans: These plans require a upfront payment, which can provide significant cost savings on dental care.
Federal Plan (FEDVIP)
The Federal Plan (FEDVIP) offers comprehensive dental coverage for Federal employees, annuitants, retired uniformed service members, and their families.
You have a choice of two plan options with FEDVIP, both of which provide excellent benefits.
One of the best features of FEDVIP is that you'll get 100% coverage for in-network cleanings and exams, which is a great way to stay on top of your oral health.
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There are no waiting periods for most major procedures with FEDVIP, which means you can get the care you need without delay.
If you have children, you'll be happy to know that FEDVIP offers orthodontia coverage for kids up until age 19 on the High plan.
Here are the key benefits of FEDVIP at a glance:
Overall, FEDVIP is a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable dental coverage.
Veteran Affairs Program
The Veteran Affairs Program offers comprehensive coverage to protect the smiles of Veterans, their families, and CHAMPVA members with the help of MetLife.
MetLife is a trusted provider of dental insurance, and their partnership with the Veteran Affairs Program is a testament to their commitment to serving those who serve.
This program is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of Veterans, providing them with the financial protection they need to maintain good oral health.
With MetLife's comprehensive coverage, Veterans and their families can rest assured that they have access to quality dental care, even on a limited budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the best dental insurance?
Delta Dental offers the best overall dental insurance, particularly suitable for those with braces, implants, or older adults, with a comprehensive PPO plan featuring a $2,000 annual maximum benefit and $50 deductible.
How much is dental care insurance?
Dental insurance premiums typically cost between $20-$50 per month, with some plans requiring a deductible before coverage kicks in.
What is the most common form of dental insurance?
The most common form of dental insurance is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), offering a network of participating dentists to choose from. This type of insurance provides flexibility and convenience for dental care.
Sources
- https://www.simplyinsurance.com/best-dental-insurance-montana/
- https://www.metlife.com/insurance/dental-insurance/
- https://www1.deltadentalins.com/areas-we-serve/montana.html
- https://www.dentalinsuranceshop.com/dental-insurance/dental-insurance-by-state/montana-dental-plans
- https://dentalsave.com/local/montana-dental-plans/
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