What Are the Types of Dental Insurance Cigna Offers?
One of the key offerings of Cigna Healthcare is affordable dental plans. The plans are used by millions of customers throughout the country. Dental insurance plans provide a wide variety of coverage ranging from basic plans which include preventive care to more complex plans which can offer coverage for more extensive dental care.
Dental Insurance
It is helpful to understand the main differences between the different types of dental insurance. This helps ensure customers choose the right insurance based on their unique needs. There are different types of dental insurance which can be confusing. A summary of helpful things to consider when evaluating dental insurance coverage and selecting a plan is outlined below:
- Deductible and coinsurance
- Preventative care which usually includes cleanings, exams, and routine X-rays
- Primary care dentist selection requirements
- In network and out-of-network dentists
The most common types of dental insurance plans include the following:
- Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO)
- Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO)
- Dental Exclusive Provider Organization (DEPO)
- Dental Point of Service (DPOS)
- Dental Indemnity
Below is a detailed overview of these different types of dental insurance plans.
Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO)
A DPPO plan has a network of providers for customers. While the patient can work with a dentist outside the network, they will incur higher costs for care. A primary care dentist is not required. These plans typically have an annual deductible and coinsurance. Once the deductible is satisfied, the dental plan kicks in. Patients then begin sharing costs of the coinsurance up to the annual maximum.
These plans typically cover all costs associated with in-network preventive dental care. DPPO plans are very common and one of the most popular dental insurance plans.
Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO)
The DHMO plans are typically more affordable as there is no deductible and set fees for non-preventative dental services. Preventive dental care costs are usually covered completely. Because patients are required to choose a network primary care dentist, it typically results in lower costs. These plans do not typically have an annual maximum for services which are covered.
Dental Exclusive Provider Organization (DEPO)
A DEPO plan gives patients options for visiting both general dentists and specialists. The plan does not require patients to select a primary care dentist and also does not require a referral for seeing a specialist. This plan does require that patients see an in-network dentist for coverage. It may allow for out-of-network coverage in certain dental emergencies. The DEPO plans usually include a deductible with a coinsurance.
Dental Point of Service (DPOS)
The DPOS plans allow patients to visit out-of-network dentists but offer lower costs for in-network providers. Patients are required to choose a primary care dentist and a referral for a specialist. Depending on the plan, it may have a higher deductible, premium, and copay. Patients can see a cost savings if they are able to work with dentists who are in the network.
Dental Indemnity
A Dental Indemnity plan offers patients quite a bit of freedom. This plan is often called a fee-for-service or traditional dental plan. The plan does not require patients to see a dentist within the network or choose a primary care dentist.
This plan typically includes both an annual deductible and coinsurance. Patients will pay out-of-pocket for services until the deductible has been met. After this occurs, the plan shares costs for covered services. While the Dental Indemnity plans cost more, they also offer patients additional flexibility.
There are various types of affordable dental plans which range from a basic, preventive care plan to plans which cover major dental care. Reach out to the office to review our services and discuss insurance coverage.