Which type of dental plan is the most common?

Asked by: Mr. Werner Leannon V  |  Last update: August 26, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (48 votes)

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) dental insurance is the most common and versatile choice for many individuals and families. Its blend of provider flexibility, cost-sharing mechanisms, and coverage options makes it a well-rounded option for those seeking comprehensive dental care.

What is the most common dental insurance?

According to the National Association of Dental Plans, Dental PPO plans are the most predominant type of plan in the U.S. market; 82 percent of all dental policies are PPOs.

Why do dentists prefer PPO over HMO?

1. Network Flexibility: PPOs typically offer a wider network of dentists and allow you to visit out-of-network providers, although at a higher cost. 2. Cost: Generally, PPOs have higher premiums than HMOs. However, they might offer better coverage for certain procedures. 3.

Is PPO the best dental plan?

Generally speaking, DHMO plans are more cost effective, while PPO dental plans offer greater flexibility. There's no way of saying that one plan is better than the other – it just comes down to which will meet your unique needs.

What are the two most common types of dental benefits?

Dental health maintenance organization (DHMO) and dental preferred provider organization (DPPO) are the two most common dental insurance plans. While one option isn't better than the other, each type has its advantages and limitations.

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24 related questions found

What is the most common dental?

10 Most Common Dental Procedures and How They Work
  • 1 – Teeth Cleanings. This is by far the most common reason people visit the dentist. ...
  • 2 – Teeth Whitening. Like cleaning, whitening is a relatively discomfort-less process. ...
  • 3 – Extractions. ...
  • 4 – Veneers. ...
  • 5 – Fillings. ...
  • 6 – Crowns. ...
  • 7 – Root Canal. ...
  • 8 – Braces/Invisalign.

What is the difference between a PPO and an indemnity plan?

Like a PPO plan, indemnity health plans allow you to see any doctor without a referral. But with PPO health insurance, you pay a fixed copay or coinsurance for each service after meeting your deductible. Your insurer covers the rest.

Which is better, PPO or HMO?

Generally speaking, an HMO might make sense if lower costs are most important and if you don't mind using a PCP to manage your care. A PPO may be better if you already have a doctor or medical team that you want to keep but doesn't belong to your plan network.

What is downside to a PPO plan?

In general, PPO plans tend to be more expensive than an HMO plan. Your monthly premium will be higher and you will have to meet your deductible before your health insurer starts paying. You will also have to pay more out-of-pocket if you visit a provider who is not part of your PPO network.

Are PPOs the most popular type of health plan?

If someone has health insurance through their employer, also known as group health insurance, there's a good chance their policy is a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan. Even if they don't have group coverage, it's likely their policy is a PPO plan. PPOs are the most common type of health plan available.

Why do dentists not accept HMO?

“Some dentists choose not to accept HMO plans due to lower reimbursement rates and the administrative complexities associated with these plans,” said George Beach, a Modesto, California-based insurance agent licensed to work in 14 states.

Why do doctors prefer PPO?

HMO plans might involve more bureaucracy and can limit doctors' ability to practice medicine as they see fit due to stricter guidelines on treatment protocols. So just as with patients, providers who prefer a greater degree of flexibility tend to prefer PPO plans.

Is Cigna good dental insurance?

The Cigna Dental Preventive plan has no annual deductible or maximum. It provides 100 percent coverage for preventive care for routine dental check-ups every six months, including cleanings and routine X-rays. Similar to UnitedHealthcare, Cigna provides 100 percent coverage for preventive care with no waiting periods.

What is the largest dental insurance network?

Delta Dental serves more than 90 million* Americans, protecting more smiles than any other dental benefits company, with the largest network of dentists nationwide, quick answers and personalized service.

Is Delta Care USA a PPO or HMO?

As an employee, the OCC Dental Insurance Program offers you the choice of two quality dental options — the PPO option called Delta Dental PPO and the dental HMO (DHMO) option known DeltaCare® USA.

Why do so many dentists not accept insurance?

The rates of reimbursement by many insurance carriers are less than the cost of providing the treatment, forcing dentists who are in these plans to find ways to cut corners and cut costs that are not in the best interest of the patient.

Why is PPO the most popular?

Compared to health maintenance organizations (HMOs), PPOs offer you more flexibility in choosing the doctors you see, and there's no need for a referral from a primary care provider.

Does PPO have a deductible?

Deductibles: PPO plans usually come with a deductible. This means you pay for care and services until the deductible is met. Then your plan starts sharing costs.

Is PPO the most expensive?

HMOs (health maintenance organizations) are typically cheaper than PPOs, but they tend to have smaller networks. You need to see your primary care physician before getting a referral to a specialist. PPOs (preferred provider organizations) are usually more expensive.

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield a PPO?

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

However, BCBS still pays more to in-network providers than out-of-network providers. People who are part of a PPO do not need a physician's referral to consult with a specialist. PPOs also usually offer drug coverage. Learn about Medicare referrals.

Why would a person choose PPO over an HMO?

A PPO plan provides more flexibility in choosing your health care providers, but it may cost more than an HMO. Key areas to remember: Your maximum copay or coinsurance is less when you stay in network for services.

What are three disadvantages of a PPO?

Disadvantages
  • Higher monthly premium.
  • Higher out of pocket expenses.
  • Must monitor in-network vs out-of network to control cost.

What dental insurance do most dentists accept?

PPO. Preferred Provider Organization is the most common form of insurance. They provide members with a list of participating dentists to choose from. The dentists on this list have agreed to a lower fee schedule, which provides you with greater cost savings.

What are the cons of an indemnity plan?

Drawbacks of indemnity health insurance plans

These higher premiums reflect the plan's extensive provider flexibility and lack of network restrictions. Additionally, the deductibles and out-of-pocket costs associated with indemnity plans can be substantially higher.

Is PPO always better?

Is PPO insurance worth the cost? It depends on your health needs, lifestyle and financial situation. For some people, the choice to see any doctor or specialist, even out of network, is worth the extra cost. For others, a more affordable plan like a Health Maintenance Organization, or HMO might be a better option.