Dental insurance coverage will pay some of the costs associated with preventive, basic, or major dental care. Having dental insurance can be a helpful way to manage your dental care costs. That is because it helps ensure you will have benefits to cover some of the care you need.
When you are looking for a plan that is right for your needs and your budget, UnitedHealthcare dental plans include a variety of options to meet your needs.
How to Get Dental Insurance and What Does It Cost
UnitedHealthcare-branded dental plans include several dental plans designed to fit any budget.
The plans will have different payment levels. Your costs depend on the amount of coverage you choose. There are budget-friendly plans that cover just the basics and more comprehensive plans that include more services. Costs to consider when you are choosing a plan include premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copays.
What Do Most Dental Plans Cover
Most dental plans include coverage for preventive care like routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays. Some plans require a copay for preventive services, while others cover those services 100%. Many dental plans also include coverage for basic services like fillings and extractions, and major services like root canals, crowns, and more.
Most dental insurance plans have a maximum benefit, a limit to the amount or number of procedures they will pay for the year. For United Healthcare dental plans, there is an annual maximum from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on your plan.
- Preventive Care- Preventive care is often covered with no deductible or waiting period.
This most often includes routine cleanings for all covered people and fluoride treatments for those under the age of sixteen on the plan.
- Basic Services- This often includes simple fillings or emergency treatment for dental pain, subject to deductible and coinsurance.
- Major Services- This can include root canals and retainers. These are often subject to the plan’s deductible, coinsurance, and waiting periods.
- Access to a Wide Dental Network- Choose from a variety of dental providers. This often includes dental offices in both private and retail settings.
- Direct Payment to In-Network Dentists- Easy-to-manage payments. No need to submit claim forms.
- No Age Limits- There are coverage options available for every member of your family and every stage of life. If you are on Medicare, which does not include dental benefits, we have plans designed specifically for seniors.
What is The Difference Between Network and Out-of-Network Dentists?
The difference between network and out-of-network dentists comes down to two factors: the cost and convenience.
- Network dentists agree to accept a lower negotiated rate on services. This means you pay less even before your insurance company pays for anything. When you use network providers, you most often do not have to submit claims yourself. The dental office manages the paperwork, saving you time.
- Out-of-network dentists are not limited to negotiated rates and might charge more. Also, some dental insurance plans will not pay any benefits to out-of-network dentists or pay less.
Choosing a network dentist will help make your dental care more affordable. Check your specific plan to understand the difference. Before you choose a dental plan, check the network dentists in your area. If you already have a dentist, confirm they are part of the plan's network.