Colorado Dental Insurance: How to Choose the Best Plan for Your Needs

If you are living in Colorado and looking for dental insurance, you will be happy to know that there are a wide variety of options available to you. However, navigating the different types of plans and coverage levels can be overwhelming. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Colorado dental insurance, including the different types of plans available, how to choose the right plan for your needs, and frequently asked questions.

Types of Colorado Dental Insurance Plans

There are two main types of dental insurance plans available in Colorado: PPO and HMO.

PPO Plans

PPO (preferred provider organization) plans are the most common type of dental insurance in Colorado. These plans offer a network of dentists that have agreed to charge lower rates to plan members. If you go to a dentist outside of this network, you will likely pay more for your care.

With a PPO plan, you will typically have a deductible to meet before your coverage kicks in. Once you have met your deductible, your plan will cover a percentage of your care, usually around 80%.

One benefit of PPO plans is that they allow you to see any dentist you choose, even if they are outside of your network. However, you will likely pay more out of pocket if you choose to go out of network.

HMO Plans

HMO (health maintenance organization) plans are less common than PPO plans in Colorado, but they can still be a good option for some people. With an HMO plan, you will typically pay a set monthly fee and receive care from dentists within your network.

One benefit of HMO plans is that they often have lower out-of-pocket costs than PPO plans. However, you will typically be required to see a dentist within your network in order to receive coverage.

How to Choose the Right Colorado Dental Insurance Plan

Choosing the right dental insurance plan can be daunting, but there are a few key factors to consider:

Coverage Levels

Consider what type of care you need and choose a plan that covers those services. For example, if you need a lot of work done, you may want to choose a plan with higher coverage levels.

Network of Dentists

If you have a dentist you like, check to see if they are in your plan’s network. If not, you may want to choose a different plan or be prepared to pay more out of pocket.

Copays and Deductibles

Compare the copays and deductibles of different plans to see which one makes the most sense for your budget.

FAQ

Question
Answer
What does dental insurance typically cover?
Dental insurance typically covers preventative care, such as cleanings and checkups, as well as basic services like fillings and extractions. Some plans also cover major services like root canals and crowns.
Is dental insurance required in Colorado?
No, dental insurance is not required in Colorado. However, it can be a wise investment if you need regular dental care or anticipate needing major work done in the future.
Can I get dental insurance through my employer?
Yes, many employers offer dental insurance as part of their benefits package. If your employer does not offer dental insurance, you can purchase a plan on your own.
How much does dental insurance typically cost?
The cost of dental insurance varies depending on the type of plan you choose and the amount of coverage you need. On average, dental insurance in Colorado costs between $20 and $50 per month.
What if I can’t afford dental insurance?
If you can’t afford dental insurance, there are several options available to you. Some dentists offer income-based sliding scale fees, and there are also nonprofit organizations that provide free or low-cost dental care to people in need.

Now that you know everything you need to know about Colorado dental insurance, you can make an informed decision about which plan is right for you. Whether you choose a PPO or HMO plan, make sure to read the fine print and understand your coverage levels before signing up.