Does Health Insurance Cover Dental?
Dental coverage under health insurance is limited. While dental care generally isn't covered by health insurance, some procedures to manage oral diseases or physical deformities may be covered.
BK
By Brenna Kelly
BK
Licensed Health Insurance Agent
Brenna Kelly, the former Health Insurance Content Manager at MoneyGeek, is a licensed health insurance agent and real estate associate. She is qualified to provide expert insight and advice on medical insurance, disability, long-term care, critical illness, Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage Plans. Kelly has a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Applied Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She uses her content production experience and health insurance expertise to deliver informative articles.
MH
Edited by Megan Hull
MH
Web Content Editor
Megan Hull is committed to creating quality content that fills in knowledge gaps and improves people’s lives. Previously, she worked at one of the nation’s largest behavioral health care providers and has written content for medical practices across the country. She went to school at the University of Central Florida, where she studied English with a focus in technical communications and literature. Megan geeks out on psychology, cooking and secondhand finds.
BK
By Brenna Kelly
BK
Licensed Health Insurance Agent
Brenna Kelly, the former Health Insurance Content Manager at MoneyGeek, is a licensed health insurance agent and real estate associate. She is qualified to provide expert insight and advice on medical insurance, disability, long-term care, critical illness, Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage Plans. Kelly has a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Applied Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She uses her content production experience and health insurance expertise to deliver informative articles.
MH
Edited by Megan Hull
MH
Web Content Editor
Megan Hull is committed to creating quality content that fills in knowledge gaps and improves people’s lives. Previously, she worked at one of the nation’s largest behavioral health care providers and has written content for medical practices across the country. She went to school at the University of Central Florida, where she studied English with a focus in technical communications and literature. Megan geeks out on psychology, cooking and secondhand finds.
Updated: May 22, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Health insurance typically does not cover routine and preventive dental procedures, such as cleanings and exams. However, emergency treatments and procedures that manage diseases or correct oral deformities may be covered depending on the specifics of the health insurance plan. The extent of dental insurance coverage will vary based on your specific health insurance plan, so it is crucial to review the plan details to understand the coverage provided.
When Does Health Insurance Cover Dental Work?
Health insurance covers dental work in specific situations, such as emergencies resulting from sustained mouth trauma or dental procedures required for disease management. However, routine preventive dental procedures are typically not covered. Since health and dental insurance are generally not sold together, you'll need a standalone dental plan for more comprehensive oral health coverage.
Health insurance may cover the following dental services:
Health insurance typically doesn't cover the following dental services:
Dental insurance helps cover the cost of dental care and serves as a key part of many people's health care. There are various options available for dental coverage, including employer-based dental insurance plans, marketplace dental plans, privately purchased plans and dental discount plans.
hguohtlStandard employer-based health insurance doesn’t cover dental expenses. However, employer-based dental insurance that involves cost-sharing between the employer and the employee is often available. In these cases, the employer usually pays a portion of the dental plan's premium, while employees contribute through payroll deductions or direct payments.
Employees typically enroll in employer-based dental insurance during specific enrollment periods or when they are hired. Eligibility for coverage may depend on factors like employment status and length of employment.
Although employer-based dental insurance may have an annual maximum, waiting period and deductible, all of which limit coverage and cost-sharing opportunities, it does allow for coordination of other dental coverage that an employee may have already had through another policy.
Health insurance plans purchased from the marketplace offer individuals access to 10 essential health benefits, ensuring the right to receive treatment during medical emergencies. However, marketplace dental insurance plans do not include these essential benefits for adults. On the other hand, children under 18 are required to have access to dental plans through health insurance providers, even if their parents choose not to purchase a plan.
When considering both health and dental insurance plans in the marketplace, it's essential to keep a few things in mind:
Some of the top dental insurance companies that can be found on the marketplace are summarized in the chart below.
BEST DENTAL INSURANCE PROVIDERSMoneyGeek ranked the best dental providers based on premiums, out-of-pocket costs and coverage. Keep in mind not all providers are available in all areas, so it's important to review the coverage options in your region.
Dental insurance through private insurers offers individuals the option to purchase dental coverage directly from a provider. Unlike marketplace dental plans, private insurers may provide more flexibility in terms of enrollment and availability throughout the year. Here are key points to consider when choosing a dental insurance plan from a private insurer:
Dental discount plans offer an alternative option for dental insurance. Unlike traditional dental insurance, these plans provide discounted rates for dental services within a network of participating dentists. With a dental discount plan, there are typically no waiting periods or annual maximums to worry about. Instead of sharing costs, individuals receive reduced dental treatment fees, usually ranging from 10% to 60% off the regular price. This option can be a cost-effective solution for individuals looking to save on dental expenses without the complexities of traditional insurance.
Ensure you're getting the best rate for your health insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
