Dental Insurance Plans

DHMO  which is Dental Health Maintenance Organization

This is the least expensive of dental plans.  Professional dentists provide all dental services and they agree to provide specigic treatments and services to patients at o charge.  Although some services may require a co=payment.

DHMO plans reward participating dentists who keep patients in good health and so the plan costs are kept low.  The insurance company pays dentists directly for each individual, regardless of how much or how often covered services are used.

PPO Preferred Provider Organization

Generally less expensive than Indemnity dental plans. Individuals select their dentist from a network or listing of dental providers who have agreed by contract to reduce their fees.

Individuals can also seek treatment from dentists outside of the PPO (non-participating dentists) but may be responsible for higher deductibles and/or co-payments.

Indemnity

Usually allows the patient to go to the dentist of their choice. These plans generally pay a portion of the dentist’s fee or a set dollar amount (usually, whichever is less).

Payments may be made to the insured member or, by assignment, directly to the dentist. If there is a difference between the amount paid and the dentist’s full charge and the amount paid, the individual usually pays the difference.

Scheduled

A scheduled plan or scheduled reimbursement plan reimburses you for a specific amount based on a fee schedule with any balance due being your responsibility. Scheduled plans do include a calendar year maximum, a deductible and have waiting periods on certain procedures. A Scheduled plan shows every covered procedure and the amount you will be reimbursed for each procedure. For example, if the insurance reimburses $47 for a cleaning, and your dentist charges you $50 for a cleaning, you would be responsible for the difference of $3.

Discount Card

Discount cards are offered as a way to lower the cost of dental care. These cards are especially attractive for people who do not have insurance coverage for these services or who have inadequate coverage. Discount cards allow for unlimited use of services by using a dental network and are based on a discounted fee schedule. The cost of your membership card is small compared to the potential savings for you and your family.