What Types of Dental Insurance Does UnitedHealthcare Offer?
UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest and most trusted health insurers in the U.S., and it offers several types of dental coverage tailored to meet the needs of individuals, families, seniors, and employers. These plans are designed to make it easier to access both preventive and major dental care, with flexible options depending on your budget and oral health needs.
Individual and Family Dental Insurance
For those who don’t get dental coverage through work, UnitedHealthcare provides individual and family dental plans. These plans come at different price points and offer varying levels of coverage, so you can find one that works for your needs.
Most plans cover preventive care—like cleanings and regular checkups—at no extra cost. Many also include basic procedures such as fillings and simple extractions. Higher-tier plans may even help cover more complex work like crowns, root canals, or bridges, although those usually come with longer waiting periods or higher out-of-pocket costs.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Basic Plan: Covers routine cleanings, exams, and X-rays.
- Standard Plan: Includes basic treatments like fillings.
- Premium Plan: Covers major services and may offer extras like orthodontic or cosmetic care.
Employer-Sponsored (Group) Dental Plans
UnitedHealthcare also works with businesses to provide group dental plans as part of employee benefits. These can be customized to include everything from cleanings to major procedures, often at better rates due to group pricing.
Employers can choose from contributory plans (where costs are shared with employees) or fully employer-paid plans. Offering dental coverage is not only a great perk for employees—it’s also a smart way for businesses to support employee wellness and retention.
Dental Coverage in Medicare Advantage Plans
For older adults, many of UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include dental benefits. Since Original Medicare doesn’t cover dental care, these plans can be a great option for retirees.
Coverage depends on the plan and where you live, but often includes:
- Exams and cleanings
- X-rays
- Fillings and extractions
- Some major dental work
Some plans also come with an annual allowance to help cover dental costs beyond what's included.
Dental Coverage through Medicaid and CHIP
In certain states, UnitedHealthcare manages dental benefits for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These plans aim to provide basic and preventive dental services to children and low-income families. Coverage varies by state but often includes checkups, cleanings, cavity treatments, and braces for kids when medically necessary.
Dental Discount Programs
UnitedHealthcare also offers dental discount plans—not insurance, but a membership program that gives you access to reduced rates on dental services when you visit providers in their network. These can be a smart choice if you don’t need frequent dental care but still want to save on unexpected visits without paying high monthly premiums.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for coverage as an individual, for your family, your employees, or as part of a Medicare or Medicaid plan, UnitedHealthcare has a range of dental options. The goal is simple: make good oral health more accessible and affordable for everyone.
Have questions or want help finding the right plan? Don’t hesitate to reach out.