What Are the Types of Dental Insurance United Healthcare Offers?
Dental insurance coverage is incredibly helpful, but can be overwhelming to navigate. It includes various things which are important to consider in determining the specific plan that best meets the needs of you and your family. UnitedHealthcare offers a variety of affordable dental plans. These plans are underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company. The coverage under the plan can range from basic preventative care to more comprehensive coverage that includes extended care and services. Additional information regarding the types of dental insurance offered by United Healthcare is outlined below.
There are three basic types of dental insurance plans that patients can choose from which are outlined below. In the evaluation of dental coverage, it is important to consider your unique needs and what is most important. This often includes things such as cost, network providers, flexibility, and covered services. Patients can then look at the specific dental plans to determine what works best for their specific needs. The dental insurance plans offered by United Healthcare are Dental PPO plans.
Dental Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
The dental plans offered by United Healthcare, which are underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, are Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. Below is a summary of a Dental PPO:
- Higher premium compared to a Dental HMO
- Coinsurance applies, which is a percentage that the patient and the insurance company will pay for various covered services. In most cases, a Dental PPO will cover 100% of preventive services, such as an examination and professional cleaning. In comparison, the Dental PPO will cover 50% of other services, such as a bridge or crown.
- The plan may include an annual maximum for benefits
- There is a network of providers who have pre-negotiated discounted services. This helps patients save money
- There are also various benefits that can be applied to providers who are out-of-network
Dental Indemnity Plans
This is a traditional fee-for-service insurance plan that offers patients the most freedom in their coverage. Below are additional details associated with a dental indemnity plan:
- Plans have higher premiums compared to a Dental HMO or Dental PPO
- Coinsurance applies to these plans. There are set percentages of the cost that patients and the insurance company are expected to pay for services
- Includes a deductible
- Benefits have a maximum amount per calendar year
- Does not contain a network, meaning patients can select any provider. The plan does not include network-negotiated discounts on covered dental services.
Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO)
Below is a summary of a dental HMOs:
- Includes lower premiums compared to a Dental PPO or an indemnity plan
- Plans include a copay or set fee associated with regular office visits and services
- No benefits are associated with out-of-network providers
- The plan does not include an annual maximum
- Includes a restricted network of providers
Waiting Period
The waiting period can vary. In general, there is no waiting period for services that are considered to be preventive once coverage is active. Once your dental insurance plan begins, you can start using the benefits for preventive care. Be sure to check on your specific plan regarding any applicable waiting period.
Call the office with any questions regarding the services we offer. We look forward to working with you to help you maintain good oral health and ensure any issues are treated in a timely manner.