
If you're in the market for dental insurance, there are numerous options to consider. Aetna Dental Insurance is one of the most well-known providers, offering a range of plans to suit different budgets and needs.
Delta Dental Insurance is another prominent player, with a large network of participating dentists across the country. Cigna Dental Insurance is also worth considering, with its flexible plans and discounts for certain services.
Humana Dental Insurance is a popular choice for those looking for a more affordable option, with various plans that cater to different age groups and health needs.
Consider reading: Different Types of Dental Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Dental insurance plans can be grouped into three main categories: DHMO, PPO, and discount plans. Each plan type has unique characteristics, such as monthly or annual premium costs, typical coverage, and freedoms regarding which dentist you choose.
DHMO plans usually have a fixed monthly premium and require you to choose a primary care dentist from a list of participating providers. PPO plans offer more flexibility, allowing you to see any dentist, but often come with higher premiums.
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Discount plans are a more affordable option, but they don't provide the same level of coverage as other plans. They work by offering a discount on dental services, but you'll still have to pay the full cost upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement.
Here are the main types of dental insurance plans:
These plans can also be grouped into categories like "Direct reimbursement programs" and "UCR programs", which offer more flexibility and coverage, but may come with higher premiums and more complex billing.
For Seniors and Low-Income
Medicaid dental insurance is available to low-income individuals and families, covering a wide range of dental services including cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
Many seniors qualify for Medicare, but it doesn't cover most dental care, except for some procedures like dental exams and X-rays.
Low-income individuals can also access community clinics, which often provide affordable dental care.
Medicaid dental insurance plans often have lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs compared to private insurance plans.
Community clinics often have sliding scale fees, meaning the cost of care is based on the patient's income.
Dental schools and universities also offer low-cost dental care, often staffed by students under the supervision of experienced dentists.
For more insights, see: Low Premium Health Insurance
Categories
Dental insurance companies group their plans into three main categories: DHMO, PPO, and discount plans. Each plan type has unique characteristics, such as monthly or annual premium costs, typical coverage, and freedoms regarding which dentist you choose.
Direct reimbursement programs pay a predetermined percentage of your dental care costs, without excluding coverage based on the type of treatment needed. This allows you to work with your dentist to find healthy and economically sound solutions.
"Usual, customary, and reasonable" (UCR) programs let you go to the dentist of your choice, but pay a set percentage of the dentist's fee or the plan administrator's fee limit, whichever is less. These limits may not accurately reflect local dentists' fees, leading to potential discrepancies.
UCR programs also provide a list of covered services with assigned dollar amounts, which represent the maximum the plan will pay for each service. This can lead to balance billing, where you're billed for the difference between the allowed charge and the dentist's fee.
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Capitation programs pay contracted dentists a fixed amount for each enrolled family or patient, in exchange for providing specific types of treatment at no charge. For some treatments, you may need to make a co-payment.
Here are the main types of dental insurance categories:
- Direct reimbursement programs
- "Usual, customary, and reasonable" (UCR) programs
- Capitation programs
These categories can help you understand the different features and benefits of each plan type, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Understanding Dental Insurance
In-network and out-of-network dentists are a crucial aspect of dental insurance. Most dental insurance plans will only pay for care if you go to a contracted and participating in-network dentist.
You'll be given a list of dentists who participate in your dental insurance plan, known as in-network providers. Going to an in-network provider often results in the lowest out-of-pocket costs for you.
Some dental insurance plans allow you to see out-of-network providers, known as PPOs. However, the plan will pay a much lower percentage of the cost than it does for seeing an in-network provider, resulting in higher out-of-pocket costs.
For more insights, see: Insurance Self Pay

If you have an HMO dental plan, you usually won't be able to see out-of-network providers, and the entire cost of dental care you receive will fall on you.
Here are some key points to consider when evaluating dental insurance plans:
- Whether your dentist and any specialists you may need are in-network
- Total costs for the plan each year, including premiums, co-pays, and deductibles
- Annual maximum
- Out-of-pocket limit, if any
- Limitations on preexisting conditions
- Coverage for braces, if needed or anticipated
- Emergency treatment coverage, including treatment if you’re away from home
It's essential to consider these factors when choosing a dental insurance plan to ensure you get the best coverage for your needs.
Medi-Cal Work Coverage
Medi-Cal provides coverage for dental work, including pediatric and adult dental insurance.
This means that Medi-Cal covers both children and adults.
Medi-Cal's dental benefits include coverage for preventative services.
Preventative services are important for maintaining good oral health.
Medi-Cal also covers restorative services, which can help repair damaged teeth.
Restorative services can be a big help for people who have dental problems.
On a similar theme: Medi-cal Insurances
Understanding
Understanding dental insurance can be a daunting task, but don't worry, I've got you covered. To start, you'll need to understand the difference between in-network and out-of-network dentists. In-network dentists are those who participate in your dental insurance plan and will result in the lowest out-of-pocket costs for you.
Most PPOs allow you to see out-of-network providers, but the plan will pay a much lower percentage of the cost than it does for seeing an in-network provider. This means your out-of-pocket costs will be higher when seeing out-of-network providers.
Some dental insurance plans require predetermination of costs, which means you or your dentist must submit a treatment proposal to the plan administrator before receiving any care or treatment. This can help determine your eligibility, the eligibility period, services covered, your co-payment, and the maximum limitation.
To help contain costs, your dental insurance plan may limit benefits by the number of procedures or dollar amount in a given year. This is usually done to prevent excessive spending and ensure adequate coverage.
Most dental insurance plans have a peer review mechanism to resolve disputes among third parties, patients, and dentists. This aims to ensure fairness, individual case consideration, and a thorough examination of records, treatment procedures, and results.
Here's a breakdown of what to consider when comparing dental insurance plans:
- Whether your dentist and any specialists you may need are in-network
- Total costs for the plan each year, including premiums, co-pays, and deductibles
- Annual maximum
- Out-of-pocket limit, if any
- Limitations on preexisting conditions
- Coverage for braces, if needed or anticipated
- Emergency treatment coverage, including treatment if you're away from home
- Whether you can choose your own dentist
- Who controls treatment decisions -- you and your dentist, or the dental plan
- Whether the plan covers diagnostic, preventive, and emergency services, and how much
- What routine treatment is covered
- What major dental care is covered
- Whether you can see the dentist when you need to and schedule appointment times convenient for you
- Who is eligible for coverage under the plan, and when coverage goes into effect
Preventative Care
Preventative care is a crucial aspect of dental insurance, and it's essential to understand what's covered under this category. You're usually covered for two preventive visits per year, which can help catch dental issues early and prevent them from getting worse.
Preventative care includes regular exams, cleanings, fluoride rinses, and oral cancer screenings. X-rays are also part of preventative care, which helps identify any underlying issues.
The 100-80-50 coverage structure is a common format for dental plans, where preventive care is covered at 100%, basic procedures at 80%, and major procedures at 50%. However, some plans may not cover certain procedures, such as sealants, at all.
Here's a breakdown of what's typically covered under preventative care:
- Regular exams
- Cleanings
- Fluoride rinses
- Oral cancer screenings
- X-rays
It's worth noting that some plans may have waiting periods for certain services, such as periodontics and prosthodontics, which may not be available in the first year of coverage for individual policies.
Plan Options and Features
Dental insurance plans vary depending on what you need, so it's essential to consider your options carefully.

You can choose from different types of plans, including DHMO, PPO, and discount plans. DHMO plans often have lower monthly or yearly premiums and include features like low or no-cost diagnostic and preventive care.
PPO plans offer more flexibility, allowing you to see any dentist you want, but may have higher premiums and deductibles. Some PPO plans, like Delta Dental's Gold plan, have a $50 annual deductible and a $1,000 annual maximum.
Discount dental plans, like Discount Dental Plans, can also be a cost-effective option, with most plans covering 80 to 100% of preventative care and offering significant discounts.
Here's a summary of the main plan types:
Employee Savings Options
Employee Savings Options are a great way to show your employees you care about their well-being and finances. With the right plan, they can save money on dental care.
A dental plan that offers extra perks, such as CVS ExtraCare Plus membership, can help employees save even more. This membership provides discounts, a monthly reward, and other benefits to help them stay healthy and save money.

For those who want to save on oral health and wellness-related items, an Over-the-Counter Health Solutions allowance can be a big help. This allowance allows employees to buy the items they need without breaking the bank.
To choose the best dental plan, consider whether you want individual or family coverage. You should also think about how the insurance carrier will cover costs, either by sending you a check or paying the dental provider directly.
Some plans may offer significant discounts for bundling health, dental, and vision insurance. This can be a great way to save money on multiple services.
Here are some key features to look for in a dental plan:
- Most plans cover 80 to 100% of preventative care
- Freedom to choose from several providers and plans
- Significant discounts available
- No claims to process or deductibles to calculate with discount plans
Discount dental plans are a great alternative to traditional insurance for preventative care. They offer immediate coverage and can be a more affordable option for those who need it.
Plan Options
You have several options when it comes to dental plans. Consider choosing a plan that offers significant discounts for members, such as those with a large dental network.
There are four affordable dental plans to choose from, offering one of the largest dental networks in the industry.
You can also consider a dental plan that allows you to choose from several providers and plans, giving you the freedom to select the best option for your needs.
Some plans, like the Plus and Premier PPO Plans, offer a wider network of dentists and discounted rates on services from in-network dentists.
Other options, such as discount plans, offer an affordable alternative to true dental insurance for preventative care like cleanings and X-rays.
These plans often have no claims to process or deductibles to calculate, making them a convenient option for those who want immediate coverage.
You can also consider bundling your health, dental, and vision insurance with a single provider, as they may offer discounts for multiple services.
Here are some features to consider when choosing a dental plan:
Ultimately, the best plan for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what you need and when, and choose a plan that offers the features and coverage that are right for you.
Virtual and Mobile Care
With our virtual and mobile care options, you can bring dental care to your employees and give them the convenience they need. 84% of dental patients who used virtual dentist services avoided trips to the ER and urgent care.
Our virtual dentist visits use the latest AI technology for routine evaluations, second opinions, and prescriptions. This is made possible through partnerships with providers like Dental.com and The TeleDentists.
At-home orthodontia is also an option with online services like Byte and Candid. No need to schedule appointments or worry about commute time - your employees can get the care they need from the comfort of their own homes.
Mobile dentistry services can also be offered at your workplace, providing an added level of convenience for your employees.
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What's in 2022?
In 2022, there are many top dental insurance companies competing with each other in the United States.
We're living in a time where only a few dental companies are popular and considered the best due to their broader network and advanced plans.
These top dental insurance companies offer plans that cover advanced dental treatments like orthodontics, scaling, and polishing.
Their plans are so advanced that they're considered the best in the US, making them a great option for those searching for dental services near them.
Here's an interesting read: Health Vision and Dental Insurance Bundle
Insurance Companies

Delta Dental is the largest dental insurance company in the United States, with over 54 million participants in their network.
Delta Dental offers a no-waiting period on preventive services and has no upper age limit for braces coverage. This means that you can get the dental care you need without waiting and without worrying about the cost of braces.
If you're looking for more dental insurance companies, you can check out Inven, which lists hundreds of companies globally that provide comprehensive coverage for preventative, basic, and major dental treatments.
Delta Dental's plans are also available on state and federal exchanges, making it a convenient option for many people.
Here are some key details about a few top dental insurance companies:
Humana is another top dental insurance company that offers different insurance plans and may cover up to $1000. Four of its plans provide out-of-network coverage as well.
Nothing
Nothing to worry about, but it's worth noting that dental insurance plans come in different forms, including PPO, DHMO, and private insurance.
You can choose from a variety of plans, but it's essential to understand the differences between them.
PPO plans offer the lowest out-of-pocket cost when visiting in-network providers, but you may have the option to go out of network for a higher cost.
DHMO plans provide a network of dentists for a set co-pay or no fee at all, but you may not be able to see an out-of-network dentist.
Discount or referral dental plans don't pay for your care, but participating dentists offer a discount on services.
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Cigna
Cigna is a popular dental insurance company in the US with a large network of over 300,000 partners and more than 92,000 dentists and specialists.
Its affordable premium starting from just $19 per month makes it a great option for those looking to save on dental insurance.
Cigna may cover 50% of your advanced dental treatments if you opt for advanced payment plans.
Humana
Humana is a top dental insurance company in the USA that offers different insurance plans, some of which may cover up to $1000. Four of its plans provide even out-of-network coverage as well.

Humana's Extend dental insurance plans offer the best coverage for preventative services. The Extend 2500 and 5000 plans include bi-annual exams, cleaning, and fluoride treatment, as well as a comprehensive oral exam every 3 years.
Each plan includes a $100 allowance for teeth whitening. The 2500 plan has a $2,500 annual maximum per person, with a $1,000 annual max per person for implants. The 5000 plan has a $5,000 annual maximum per person with up to $2,000 per year per person for implants.
Here are some of the most popular Humana dental insurance plans:
- Humana Dental Value Plan: Preventive services are free with this DHMO plan. Non-emergency dental visits are only $15, and there’s no deductible.
- Dental Loyalty Plus Plan: This plan includes no waiting periods and a $150 deductible. Over the first 3 years, the plan’s coverage changes, with the copayment decreasing while the annual maximum increases from $1,000 to $1,500.
Humana also offers special dental insurance plans for veterans and their family members. You can also save money by enrolling in dental and vision coverage.
Find More Companies
If you're looking for more dental insurance companies, you can use Inven to find hundreds of companies globally that provide comprehensive coverage for preventative, basic, and major dental treatments.
Delta Dental is the largest dental insurance company in the United States, with over 54 million participants in their network. They offer a no-waiting period on preventive services and their plans are available on state and federal exchanges.
Delta Dental provides orthodontics for both children and adults, and there is no upper age limit for braces coverage. They also offer DHMO and PPO plans, which can be a great option for those looking for flexibility in their dental insurance.
Cigna is another popular dental insurance company, with a large network of over 300,000 partners and 92,000 dentists and specialists. They offer affordable premiums starting from just $19 per month and may cover 50% of advanced dental treatments.
Here are a few more companies you can consider:
- United Concordia Dental offers dental insurance services with coverage for preventative, basic, and major dental treatments.
- UCCIFedVIP offers federal dental insurance plans for eligible employees and their families.
- BeneCare Dental Plans provides comprehensive coverage while minimizing administrative overhead, with historically stable rates and no claim forms required.
- Aetna offers PPO plans with low rates and a wide range of dental providers, including a 100% coverage for preventative treatment and over 370,000 providers to choose from.
Comparing and Choosing
Delta Dental offers both DHMO and PPO plans, making it a versatile option for those seeking flexibility in their dental insurance.
If you're looking for a plan with no waiting periods, consider Delta Dental or Humana, as they both offer this benefit with prior coverage.
To get the most out of your dental insurance, balance lower premiums with higher deductibles, especially for your monthly budget.
Here's a quick comparison of the deductibles offered by each carrier:
Timing

With most dental plans, you can often begin receiving preventive care right away. But you may have a waiting period before the plan will begin covering certain types of care.
You may need to wait 3-6 months or up to a year before the plan will pay for restorative or major dental care. Periodontics and prosthodontics may require you to hold the policy longer than a year before they're covered.
Experts generally encourage adults to see their dentists twice a year. Your policy may pay for a preventive visit every 6 months, but not closer together.
There are usually time limits on other services, such as X-rays, fillings on the same tooth, crowns and bridges on the same tooth, or fluoride treatments for children. Your policy may pay for a full series of X-rays only once every 3 years.
Choosing a Plan
Choosing a dental insurance plan can be overwhelming, but understanding the key features can help you make an informed decision.
Delta Dental, NCD, Humana, Aetna, and Covered California are some of the top dental insurance providers in California.
To choose the best dental plan, consider the type of coverage you need. Delta Dental, NCD, Humana, Aetna, and Covered California all offer DHMO and PPO plans, but Covered California requires you to have their health insurance already.
Preventive care is essential, and most plans cover it. Delta Dental covers 60 to 100%, NCD covers 100%, Humana covers 80 to 100%, Aetna covers 100%, and Covered California covers 100%.
Basic services are also crucial, and the coverage varies. Delta Dental covers 80 to 100%, NCD covers 80%, Humana covers 30 to 50%, Aetna covers up to 80%, and Covered California covers 100%.
Major work is a significant consideration. Delta Dental covers 0 to 50%, NCD covers 50%, Humana varies by plan, Aetna covers up to 80%, and Covered California varies.
Deductibles also play a role in choosing a plan. Delta Dental has deductibles of $0 to $50, NCD has deductibles of $50 to $150, Humana has deductibles of $0 to $150, Aetna has deductibles of $50 to $150, and Covered California has deductibles of $0 to $65.
Additional reading: Types of Aetna Insurance

Waiting periods are another factor to consider. Delta Dental has a 12-month waiting period for major work, NCD has no waiting period with prior coverage, Humana has no waiting period with prior coverage, Aetna has no waiting period for major work with prior coverage, and Covered California has a 6-month waiting period for major work.
Ultimately, you need to weigh your options and choose a plan that fits your needs.
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Specific Plans and Coverage
Full-coverage dental insurance plans cover a range of dental care services, including preventive care, basic or restorative care, and major dental care. These plans usually cover two preventive visits per year.
Most full-coverage dental plans follow the 100-80-50 coverage structure, where preventive care is covered at 100%, basic procedures at 80%, and major procedures at 50%. Some plans may choose not to cover certain procedures, such as sealants.
If you're wondering if your dental plan covers braces, the answer is often yes, but usually only for children. To get coverage for orthodontics, you may need to pay an additional fee for a rider.
Here's a breakdown of the types of dental care covered by full-coverage plans:
Medi-Cal, a government-funded health insurance program, also covers dental work, including preventive and restorative services, for both pediatric and adult patients.
Coverage

Full coverage dental insurance covers a range of dental care services, including preventive care, basic or restorative care, and major dental care. Preventive care includes regular exams, cleanings, and X-rays to maintain oral health.
Most full-coverage plans cover preventive care at 100%, basic procedures at 80%, and major procedures at 50%. However, some plans may not cover certain procedures, such as sealants, at all.
You're usually covered for two preventive visits per year, but individual policies may have limitations on periodontics and prosthodontics in the first year of coverage. The 100-80-50 coverage structure is common, but plans may vary.
Some full-coverage plans cover orthodontic care, but this is often only available with a rider, which requires an additional fee. If you have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, read the fine print to see if your plan covers orthodontia.
Types of Dental Coverage
- Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO)
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
- Discount plans
Each plan type has unique characteristics, such as monthly or annual premium costs, typical coverage, and freedoms regarding which dentist you choose.
DeltaCare USA Plan
The DeltaCare USA Plan is a popular option for those looking for affordable dental coverage. It's a Delta Dental DHMO plan that requires members to visit dentists within the network.
This plan is great for people with pre-existing conditions because it offers immediate coverage. You won't have to worry about waiting for a certain period before your coverage kicks in.
One of the best things about the DeltaCare USA Plan is that it has no deductibles or annual maximum limits. This means you can get the dental care you need without breaking the bank.
The plan also has a simple payment structure, with one annual membership fee. This can make it easier to budget for your dental expenses.
This plan is a great choice for people who want to save money on braces. It includes 24 months of discounted coverage for orthodontic treatment.
Here are some key benefits of the DeltaCare USA Plan:
- Immediate coverage for pre-existing conditions
- No deductibles or annual maximum limits
- One annual membership fee
- Established and discounted rates
- 24 months of discounted coverage for braces
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the best dental insurance?
Delta Dental is considered the best overall dental insurance provider, offering comprehensive coverage at an affordable price. Their Premium PPO plan features a $2,000 annual maximum benefit and a $50 deductible.
What is the plan name for dental insurance?
A PPO plan is a type of dental insurance that combines regular indemnity insurance with a network of contracted dentists. This plan offers specified services at set fees, making it a convenient option for those seeking affordable dental care.
What is the best dental plan in CA?
For California residents, California Dental stands out with low premiums and copays, while also offering no deductibles. However, it's worth exploring other options like Spirit Dental and Cigna Dental for their unique benefits.
Sources
- https://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/dental-insurance-overview
- https://www.aetna.com/health-insurance-plans/dental.html
- https://glenburniedentalgroup.com/blog/best-dental-insurance-companies-in-us/
- https://www.newmouth.com/california/best-dental-insurance/
- https://www.inven.ai/company-lists/top-25-dental-insurance-companies-in-pennsylvania
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