Finding the best dental insurance plan can be overwhelming for some. Learning the differences between each dental insurance plan is important. There are several types of dental insurance plans, and each plan works differently in terms of out-of-pocket costs, benefits, deductibles, etc.  

The two most commonly available dental insurance plans are dental PPO and HMO. There are still other options for dental, such as company-sponsored self-funded dental insurance. However, the PPO and HMO options are the most common through a dental insurance carrier. The NADP reports that 82 percent of dental policies are dental PPOs. To understand why dental insurance is important click the link below.  

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What is the difference between a dental HMO plan and a dental PPO plan? 

There are differences between dental health insurance plans that will help you pick the one that works best for your needs. Two of the most common plans are a dental health maintenance organization (DHMO) vs. a dental preferred provider organization (DPPO). 

What is a dental HMO plan? 

A dental HMO plan is referred to as a DHMO, and it is used to keep dental costs lower. Out-of-pocket dental costs are usually pre-determined, and there is no annual maximum for covered benefits. DHMO plans to focus on preventive care and encourage regular dentist visits.  

Pros of an HMO plan:  

• Lower premiums than dental PPO 
• No deductible 
• Set copayments for covered services with little or no copayment for diagnostic and preventive care. 
• There is no annual maximum. 

Limits of an HMO plan: 

• A small network of dentists to choose from 
• To visit a specialist, you may have to get a referral from your primary care dentist. 
• Out-of-network costs are not covered. 
• You may be required to choose a primary care dentist from a pre-approved list. 

What is a dental PPO plan? 

A dental PPO plan usually has a higher out-of-pocket cost and a deductible but allows flexibility to choose any dentist and usually does not require a referral to visit a specialist. 

DPPO plans have a network of dentists that are under dental insurance carriers. A patient can see dentists in the network but has the freedom to choose dentists and specialists out of the network. 

Pros of a dental PPO plan: 

• Flexibility to choose your dentist or dental facility. 
• A larger network of dentists to choose from. 
• May receive a partial reimbursement for covered services from out-of-network dentists.  
• No referral is needed to visit a specialist.  

Limitations of a dental PPO plan: 

• Higher premiums than DHMO plans. 
• Will typically have a deductible.  
• To receive reimbursement, patients must file claims and there can be a waiting period.  
• Out-of-pocket costs may be higher than DHMO plans.  

How to choose the best dental insurance coverage for you

Find a plan that fits your budget and provides the coverage you need. Dental plans often have limits that must be taken into consideration, especially if you or a covered family member has ongoing issues with their dental or vision health. Here are some of the considerations when choosing dental insurance: 

• Overall potential costs for the year 
• Network of Dentists in your area 
• Frequency of visits for you and/or your family 
• Types of services needed.  

If you’re an employer, speak to one of our insurance agents now about receiving a quote for dental insurance. Contact the Agency Team or call (513) 985-4481. You can also start a chat with our team in the bottom right corner and someone will assist you.   

Dental coverage is inexpensive and offers excellent peace of mind for employees. You can always make the coverage optional to keep costs low.