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Dental insurance plans are designed to fit different budgets and needs. You can choose from various types of plans, such as individual, family, or group plans.
Some plans cover a wide range of dental services, including routine cleanings, fillings, and crowns. Others may have limitations on the types of services covered or the frequency of visits.
If you're looking for affordable options, consider a plan with a lower premium and higher deductible. This can be a good choice if you don't need frequent dental care.
You can also opt for a plan with a higher premium and lower deductible if you need more comprehensive coverage. This might be a better fit if you have ongoing dental health issues.
Types of Coverage
Most plans offered through eHealth cover preventative and basic dental care, which may include procedures like teeth cleanings and fillings. This is a standard benefit that many plans provide.
Dental coverage is not an essential health benefit for adults, so health plans don't have to offer it. However, dental coverage is required for children, and most plans will offer it as part of the health plan or as a separate dental plan.
Here are some key features of Delta Dental PPO plans:
Two Ways of Coverage
When shopping for dental coverage, you have two main options to consider.
You can choose a health plan that includes dental coverage, which means the premium covers both health and dental coverage. This can be a convenient option, as you'll only have to pay one premium.
If a health plan doesn't include dental coverage, you can opt for a separate dental plan. This will require you to pay a separate premium, in addition to the premium for your Marketplace health plan.
Delta Insurance Essentials
Delta Dental is the largest managed dental care network in the country, with over 142,000 participating dentists nationwide.
You can choose between a DeltaCare USA plan or a Delta Dental PPO plan, each with its own unique features and benefits.
Delta Dental PPO plans are available in 16 states, including Alabama, California, Florida, and Texas, and offer 100% coverage for preventive services like cleanings and x-rays.
Preventive services like cleanings and x-rays are covered with no waiting period or deductibles, making it easy to stay on top of your oral health.
Delta Dental PPO plans also offer varying levels of coverage for basic and major services, with some plans requiring a waiting period before coverage kicks in.
Here's a comparison of the two main Delta Dental PPO plans:
Delta Dental PPO plans also offer flexibility in terms of provider choice, allowing you to see any licensed dentist or choose from a large network of in-network providers.
In some cases, dental coverage may be included in your health plan, or you may be able to purchase a separate dental plan.
Insurance Plans
Dental coverage is an essential health benefit for children, which means if you're getting health coverage for someone 18 or younger, dental coverage must be available for your child either as part of a health plan or as a separate dental plan.
You can choose from a large network of dentists and oral care specialists with PPO plans, making it easier to find a provider that suits your needs.
Most dental insurance plans offered through eHealth cover preventative and basic dental care, including cleanings and exams. You can quickly compare the best plans available in your area from among 270+ carriers.
Some plans, like the Delta Dental PPO Basic, have a 50% waiting period for basic services like fillings and tooth extraction, which varies by state.
You can visit providers in or out-of-network with most plans, and most cleanings and exams are covered 100%.
Federal Plan (FEDVIP)
The Federal Dental 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, which is great because it allows you to pick the one that best fits your needs.
One of the best things about FEDVIP is that you get 100% coverage for in-network cleanings and exams, which means you won't have to worry about any out-of-pocket costs for these routine procedures.
No waiting periods for most major procedures means you can get the care you need when you need it, without having to wait for a certain amount of time to pass.
Here are the highlights of the two plan options:
Discounts up to 50% when you use an in-network dentist can really help you save money on your dental care.
National IAM Plans
National IAM Plans offer a range of dental coverage options, with four plans available as of January 1, 2017. You can find more details in the Summary of Material Modifications.
You can find and compare dental insurance plans with ease, including those from National IAM Benefit Trust Fund, using free plan finders and comparison tools like eHealth's. This allows you to quickly compare plans from among 270+ carriers and find the best fit for your budget and care needs.
Most plans offered through eHealth cover preventative and basic dental care.
MetLife TakeAlong
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MetLife TakeAlong offers a convenient dental coverage option that's perfect for those who value flexibility and savings. This plan provides benefits for a broad range of covered services and procedures, allowing you to choose any licensed dentist, in or out-of-network.
With MetLife TakeAlong, you'll enjoy more savings when you stay in-network, thanks to their negotiated fees that can be as low as 35-50% off dentist list prices. This means you'll get quality dental care without breaking the bank.
The plan's expansive network of dental providers gives you plenty of options to choose from, and you can even preselect a dentist when you enroll. Plus, hundreds of services are offered at costs that may be lower than typical dental fees.
Here are some key benefits of MetLife TakeAlong:
- Expansive network of dental providers
- More savings when you stay in-network
- No paperwork; in- or out-of-network dentists submit your claims
- More savings in your wallet with MetLife's negotiated fees at savings of 35-50% off dentist list prices
- Preventive care is often covered 100%, in-network
By choosing MetLife TakeAlong, you'll have the freedom to choose your dentist, both in- and out-of-network, and enjoy 100% coverage for hundreds of services and procedures. This plan is a great option for those who want comprehensive coverage that fits their budget and oral health needs.
Delta Basic
Delta Basic offers a range of benefits for individuals and families. The deductibles for Delta Basic are $50 per person and $150 per family per calendar year.
Preventive services, such as cleanings and x-rays, are covered at 100% with no waiting period or deductibles. This is a great advantage for those who want to maintain good oral health without added costs.
Basic services, like fillings and tooth extractions, have a 50% waiting period, which can vary by state. It's essential to check with your provider for specific details on waiting periods in your area.
Delta Premium
Delta Premium is a top-notch dental insurance plan that offers a range of benefits to its subscribers. It has an annual maximum of $2,000 per person, which means you'll have access to a significant amount of coverage for dental services.
Preventive services like cleanings and x-rays are covered at 100% with no waiting period or deductibles, making it a great option for those who want to stay on top of their oral health. You can also visit any dentist and save more money by visiting a dentist in the Delta Dental PPO network.
The plan has a deductible of $50 per person and $150 per family, which is relatively low compared to other plans. Major services like root canals and crowns have a 50% waiting period, which varies by state.
Here's a breakdown of the plan's benefits:
The Delta Premium plan is a solid choice for those who want a comprehensive dental insurance plan with a range of benefits and a relatively low deductible.
Flexibility to See Any
With the right insurance plan, you can enjoy the flexibility to see any dentist. PPO plans, like those offered by Progressive Health by eHealth, allow you to visit most dentists, though in-network dentists are less expensive.
You can choose from a large network of dentists and oral care specialists with PPO plans. This flexibility is also available with MetLife TakeAlong Dental, which provides benefits for a broad range of covered services and procedures.
MetLife's negotiated fees at savings of 35-50% off dentist list prices can help you save money. This is especially true when you stay in-network with MetLife TakeAlong Dental.
Here are some key benefits of flexible dental plans:
Most cleanings and exams are covered 100% with flexible plans, making it easier to prioritize your oral health.
Benefits and Features
Cost savings are a major benefit of e dental insurance, with negotiated fees typically 35-50% less than average dental costs.
You can also use a Health Savings Account (HSA) to cover certain out-of-pocket expenses, making dental care more affordable.
Most eHealth plans cover preventative and basic dental care, including procedures like teeth cleanings and fillings.
Cost Savings
Cost savings can be a significant advantage of having dental insurance. You can save up to 50% on average dental costs as a MetLife member.
Some dental expenses can be covered by a Health Savings Account (HSA), in addition to your dental insurance.
If you have a health plan with dental coverage, your premium covers both health and dental coverage. This can simplify your expenses and make it easier to budget.
You can also consider separate dental plans, which can be purchased in addition to your Marketplace health plan. This will require a separate premium payment, but can provide more flexibility in choosing your dental coverage.
Here are some ways to save on dental costs:
- Negotiated fees with MetLife can save you up to 50% on average dental costs.
- Dental insurance can help cover costs, while an HSA can cover certain out-of-pocket expenses.
Preventative and Basic Care Coverage
Most plans offered through eHealth cover preventative and basic dental care, which may include procedures like teeth cleanings and fillings.
Preventative services like cleanings and x-rays are typically covered at 100% with no waiting period or deductibles.
Delta Dental PPO Basic plans have a $50 per person deductible and a $150 family deductible per calendar year.
Basic services, such as fillings and tooth extractions, have a 50% waiting period that varies by state.
The annual maximum for Delta Dental PPO Basic plans is $1,000 per person per calendar year.
Finding and Comparing Plans
Finding and comparing dental insurance plans can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and information, it's easier than you think. You can quickly compare the best plans available in your area from among 270+ carriers using eHealth's free plan finders and comparison tools.
To get started, it's essential to understand the different types of dental insurance plans available. For example, Progressive Health by eHealth offers a range of plans, including PPO plans that allow you to choose from a large network of dentists and oral care specialists.
Here are some key facts to consider when comparing dental insurance plans:
Delta Dental PPO plans also offer flexibility, allowing you to visit your current dentist or any licensed dentist, and pay a percentage for other covered services. These plans are available in 17 states and Washington D.C.
By understanding your options and using comparison tools, you can find a dental insurance plan that fits your budget and care needs. Most plans offered through eHealth cover preventative and basic dental care, so be sure to check the details of each plan before making a decision.
Marketplace
If you're shopping for dental insurance through the Marketplace, you'll need to consider your premium, copayments, and deductibles. The amount you pay for your health insurance every month can be lower with a lower coverage level, but you'll pay more when you get dental services.
You'll have to weigh the pros and cons of high coverage level plans, which have higher premiums but lower copayments and deductibles. This means you'll pay more every month, but less when you get dental services.
Here's a quick comparison of Marketplace dental plans:
Keep in mind that lower coverage level plans have lower premiums but higher copayments and deductibles, so you'll pay less every month, but more when you get dental services.
Health and Wellness
Having a solid dental plan can make a huge difference in protecting your smile and your wallet. Routine visits to the dentist can help prevent costly dental bills later on.
Regular dental check-ups can also help prevent 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 key things to consider when choosing a dental plan:
- Routine visits to the dentist help prevent costly dental bills later on.
- Consider your oral health needs and ability to pay for unexpected major services.
- If you have children, consider more comprehensive coverage for less out-of-pocket costs.
If you have children, getting them comprehensive coverage can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for things like braces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is employee dental insurance worth it?
Having dental insurance can save you money by preventing costly treatments for advanced dental problems. Regular care and preventive measures can be more cost-effective than treating pain or swelling
What are the three main types of dental plans?
There are four main types of dental plans, but the three most common ones are DPPO/PPO, DHMO/HMO, and dental indemnity insurance. These plans offer varying levels of coverage and flexibility, so it's essential to understand the differences before choosing the right one for your needs.
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