What Are the Types of Dental Insurance Cigna Offers?
Cigna dental insurance is one of the top insurance providers available to patients. They have a comprehensive list of plans to choose from so that you can select the best plan for you and your family. Below we will review some of the most common dental plans which include:
- Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO)
- Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO)
- Dental Indemnity
- Dental Exclusive Provider Organization (DEPO)
- Dental Point of Service (DPOS)
Dental Preferred Provider Organization Plan
DPPO plans have a list of contractor providers for patients to choose from. Providers that are in network have an agreed-upon fee schedule that they adhere to when seeing in-network patients. This plan typically has an annual deductible and coinsurance. Just like medical insurance, once you meet your deductible, the dental plan will begin covering costs as part of the coinsurance up to a maximum benefit total each year. The total benefits paid each year will depend on the specific plan that you choose.
As one of the most popular dental plans, DPPO plans keep your out-of-pocket cost lower when you see an in network provider. In-network, most preventative dental care is covered at 100%. This may include cleanings, exams, and x-rays. DPPO plans do not require you to select a primary care dentist at the time of enrollment.
Dental Health Maintenance Organization Plan
DHMO plans are often more affordable and typically do not have a deductible and there is a set fee for non-preventative care. Most preventative dental care like cleanings, exams, and x-rays are covered at 100%. Members are required to choose a primary care dentist from the network at the time of enrollment but unlike DPPO plans, there is usually no maximum for covered services, meaning you will not run out of benefits each year. The list of in network providers is often smaller, though there may be exceptions for emergency services if a patient has to see a dentist outside of the network. Anytime you need to see a specialist, your primary care dentist will need to refer you to a provider within the network.
Dental Indemnity Plan
Dental indemnity is a more traditional dental plan that does not have a list of in network providers, instead, all providers are considered fee for service. Typically, you can see whomever you want and do not have to choose a primary care dentist upon enrollment. There is usually an annual deductible which you will pay out-of-pocket until you meet the deductible, then your coinsurance will take effect and cover some of the cost of services. This type of plan often costs more but provides a lot of options with minimal requirements.
Dental Exclusive Provider Organization Plan
DEPO plans have a deductible and coinsurance. They do not require you to choose a primary care, dentist and enrollment and do not require a referral to see a specialist. In order to be covered, you do have to see an in-network provider, though some coverage may apply to out-of-network providers in case of dental emergencies.
Dental Point of Service Plan
DPOS plans often have a higher premium, deductible, and copays but members are able to see providers outside of the network if they prefer, though costs will still be lower in-network. These plans do require the member to choose a primary care dentist at the time of enrollment as well as referrals for specialists.
Cigna offers a wide range of dental insurance plans so you are sure to find a perfect plan to meet the needs of you and your family.
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