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If you're a business owner, you know how important it is to offer benefits that attract and retain top talent. Group dental insurance is a great way to do just that, and it's more accessible than you might think.
Companies of all sizes can find a group dental insurance option that fits their needs. From small startups to large corporations, there's a plan out there for everyone.
With group dental insurance, employees can enjoy a range of benefits, including routine cleanings, fillings, and even major procedures like crowns and root canals. These services can be covered at a lower cost than if employees were to pay out-of-pocket.
Many group dental insurance plans also offer additional perks, such as orthodontic coverage and dental implants.
Types of Plans
Group dental insurance plans come in different forms to suit various needs and budgets.
Indemnity plans are one type, offering reimbursement for dental expenses up to a set limit.
These plans have no network restrictions, giving policyholders flexibility in choosing dentists.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans are another option, providing discounts for services from in-network dentists.
PPO plans often have higher premiums but offer more comprehensive coverage, including preventive care and major services.
Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) plans are a third type, requiring policyholders to choose a primary dentist from the network.
DHMO plans typically have lower premiums but may limit access to specialized care.
Plan Features
Our group dental insurance plans offer flexibility to suit every budget. With several options available, you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
You can expect access to a nationwide network of over 130,000 providers, ensuring your employees can find quality care whether they're working locally or remotely.
Preventative care is typically included in both HMO and PPO plans at 100%. This means regular check-ups and cleanings are covered, giving your employees peace of mind.
Here are the key differences between HMO and PPO plans:
Value-Added Services and Resources
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Our dental plans go beyond the basics with comprehensive value-added services and resources.
We provide exceptional employer and member support to help you navigate your benefits.
From unique programs that improve care outcomes to lower costs, our plans do more to support your health.
At HealthPartners, we're committed to making it easier for employees to stay healthy with our dental plans.
What Covers
Group dental insurance plans cover a variety of services, including cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, root canals, orthodontia for children, and emergency care while traveling.
Preventative care is often covered at no cost, including two annual teeth cleanings and X-rays.
There are three different classes of coverage with varying benefits and cost structures. The annual maximum benefit applies to all three tiers.
Here's a breakdown of the three classes of coverage:
Some group dental plans may also offer coverage for orthodontic procedures, but not all do.
What Sets It Apart?
A group dental plan is purchased by an employer, whereas an individual dental plan is purchased by the individual.
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The main difference between group dental and individual dental plans is not as pronounced as it would be with health insurance.
If your client wants higher benefit amounts, they can get both individual and group dental coverage.
Some plans do not coordinate benefits, and in that case, clients may choose to get both individual and group dental coverage to meet their needs.
Universal Dentist Compatibility
You can choose a group dental plan that fits your needs, but it's essential to understand the dentist compatibility options.
If you select an HMO plan, you'll need to designate a primary dentist, who will be part of a smaller network of doctors.
With an HMO plan, you'll pay a flat fee for non-preventative care.
Preventative care is included in both HMO and PPO plans at 100%.
If you opt for a PPO plan, you can see any dentist you choose, but you'll need to meet the deductible for non-preventative care.
PPO plans have a more extensive network of doctors compared to HMO plans.
Here's a comparison of the two options:
Plan Options
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If you're looking for a dental insurance plan that fits your business, you have several options to choose from. Our flexible plans cater to different budgets, ensuring everyone can find a solution that works for them.
With access to a nationwide network of more than 130,000 providers, your employees can receive quality care no matter where they are. Whether they're working near the office or traveling, they'll find a dentist in the network.
We offer customizable plan designs and benefits for large groups with more than 100 employees. This means we can tailor the plan to fit your unique needs and create a personalized solution that adapts to your business as it grows.
Our custom network opportunities give you the flexibility to choose from broad coverage to narrow provider networks. This way, you can ensure your employees have access to quality dental care wherever they are.
For large groups, we also provide detailed reporting to help you understand how your employees are using their benefits. This gives you valuable insights into plan performance and opportunities to find cost efficiencies and save money.
Having preventive dental services not apply to annual maximums is a choice that can save your employees more money. This makes your dental benefit even more attractive to them.
Cost and Information
Group dental insurance can be a costly expense, but understanding the costs involved can help you make an informed decision. There is no one-size-fits-all plan, so it's essential to review the details of your plan to determine your annual maximum benefit amount.
The annual maximum benefit amount is the most your insurance will cover for dental expenses in a year. For example, if your plan has a $3,000 annual maximum, that's the most you'll get covered for dental expenses.
A good benefits broker can help you navigate the compliance pieces and ensure you're prepared for any requirements. They can also help you understand what's required and make health insurance available to your employees and their dependents, without breaking the bank.
Cost and Offerings
Cost and Offerings can be confusing, but let's break it down. Group dental plans vary in cost and offerings.
The annual maximum benefit is a key factor in determining how much you'll pay for dental care. This is the most your plan will cover in a year, and it can range from plan to plan.
For example, if your plan has a $3,000 annual maximum, that's the most you'll get covered in a year. It's essential to review your plan's details to understand your annual maximum benefit amount.
Keep in mind that there's no one-size-fits-all plan, so it's crucial to review your plan's specifics.
Deductible Information
When you're considering insurance, it's essential to understand the deductible information.
There is typically a deductible, once that is met your insurance would begin coverage.
You'll need to pay this amount out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.
Choosing a Plan
With several flexible dental plans available, we have an option for every budget. Many plans include access to a nationwide network of more than 130,000 providers, helping ensure your employees can find the care they need.
Dental plans may offer coverage for a variety of diagnostic, preventative care, and corrective services, including cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, root canals, orthodontia for children, and emergency care while traveling.
The plan with your client's network and preferred dentist will be the best option assuming that the other features of the plan meet their needs. However, with group dental, you should also consider the plans from the employer's perspective.
Most employers prefer to be billed for services at once, so while some of your clients may reach out to you looking for dental care, you should also reach out to those looking into other policies as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a group on dental insurance?
A group dental insurance plan covers multiple individuals under a single policy, providing comprehensive dental benefits to a group of people. This type of plan is often offered by employers or organizations to their employees or members.
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 $50 deductible.
Sources
- https://www.healthpartners.com/insurance/group-health-plans/dental/
- https://emgbrokerage.com/group-dental-insurance-brokers/
- https://grayhawkins.com/employee-benefits/group-dental-insurance/
- https://www.mmains.net/employee-benefits/group-dental-insurance/
- https://elementrisk.com/employee-benefits/group-dental-insurance/
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