Dental Insurance

A PPO dental plan offers a network of dental providers. If you visit an in-network provider, your out-of-pocket costs are typically lower.^[3] That’s because dentists within the network have agreed to a negotiated dollar amount for each covered charge with your insurance company. Out-of-network dentists may charge fees either higher or lower than the insurance plan allows; excess fees are usually your responsibility to pay.^[4] Typically under an HMO dental plan, you must receive covered services from a contracted network provider for the plan to pay benefits.^[5]

Yes. There is an annual maximum benefit amount, which varies based on the plan you select. However, most dental plans’ annual limit does not exceed $2,000 per person, per calendar year.^[6] There is also a lifetime maximum amount for prosthodontics and major dental care services; be sure to check your policy for specific details, which vary depending on the plan you choose.

If you select an indemnity plan, you typically may choose to receive your benefit payments directly, or you may ask your insurer to pay the benefit amount to your dental provider.^[7]