Which Types of Dental Insurance Cover Everything?

How do you get dental insurance that covers everything from basic treatments to major procedures? Either a Dental Health Management Plan (DHMO) or a Dental Preferred Provider Plan (DPPO) can offer full coverage – but not all do. Indemnity dental insurance also typically provides broad coverage, but it’s not as widely offered as DHMO or DPPO plans.  

Read on for information on comprehensive dental insurance plans, what services are included, and how to choose and buy the dental insurance plan that is right for your needs.  

What is full coverage dental insurance?  

If you’re purchasing full coverage dental insurance, you’re likely to be looking for a policy that will help cover the costs of a wide array of dental treatments: 

• Preventive care such as checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants and routine X-rays.  
• Basic services such as fillings and extractions.  
• Major procedures such as crowns, root canals, and dentures.  
• Orthodontic services such as braces, retainers, and other related devices.  

Are dental implants included in full coverage insurance? 

Most dental insurance plans do not cover dental implants. They are considered cosmetic treatments, just like teeth whitening and overlays. This is because implants are classified as an optional procedure that doesn’t prevent or treat dental disease, and because there are other ways to restore missing teeth such as bridges and dentures.  

There are, however, distinct advantages to dental implants, they allow replacements to function more like natural teeth, and they help preserve bone structure. If you are looking to reduce the cost of dental implants, join a dental savings plan. 

Does full coverage dental insurance mean I don’t have to pay the dentist? 

You still pay for all services except preventive care, but you pay less than someone who doesn’t have insurance or a dental savings plan.  

With dental insurance, you have an annual deductible, which is typically $50 per person on the plan (family plans may offer a deductible of $125-$150). After you meet the annual deductible, your insurance will cover a part – typically between 50% and 80% of “reasonable and customary” basic and major procedure dental costs – as well as 100% of your preventative care. 

Does full coverage dental insurance have a waiting period? 

DPPO plans will almost always have a waiting period, ranging from six months to a year, for major procedures. Your dental insurance policy should clearly state what procedures are subject to a waiting period and for how long. DHMO plans do not have waiting periods, but you will need to see an in-network dentist.  

How can I buy dental insurance that covers everything?  

If your employer doesn’t offer dental insurance, you can purchase it online or from a private insurance broker. You may be able to bundle dental with your health insurance via the ACA Marketplaces or Medicare Advantage, during open or special enrollment periods.  

When you shop for full-coverage dental plans, keep these considerations in mind:  

• Find out what the plan actually covers, and make sure the procedures you need (or may need) are included. You can usually find this information in the insurance policy’s Plan Summary. 
• Check the policy documentation for information on the annual deductible and the annual spending limit. 
• Look for a plan your dentist accepts —and ask your dentist if they can recommend an insurance plan that best meets your needs. 

Are there alternatives to dental insurance? 

Dental savings plans are an affordable alternative to dental insurance. Plan members report saving an average of 50%* on their dental care.   

And, unlike dental insurance, with a dental savings plan you don’t have to worry about deductibles, annual spending limits or waiting before you qualify for reduced rates. You can use your plan within 72 hours of joining to save on virtually all dental care, from checkups to root canals, crowns, bridges and dentures – many plans even include discounts on treatments like dental implants and cosmetic services that insurance rarely pays for.  

Want help choosing a dental savings plan or dental insurance that’s right for you? Give us a call at 1-833-735-0399 for personalized help or answer a few quick questions here to see your options.  

*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan.