Dental Insurance in Tennessee: Everything You Need to Know

Oral health is an essential part of our overall well-being, and having dental insurance in Tennessee can prevent unexpected expenses related to dental care. The state of Tennessee offers several dental insurance options for its residents. In this article, we will explore the available dental insurance plans, coverage, benefits, and other important information that you need to know.

Types of Dental Insurance in Tennessee

Dental insurance plans in Tennessee are broadly classified into two categories: traditional indemnity plans and managed care plans. Let’s take a closer look at each type.

1. Traditional Indemnity Plans

Traditional indemnity plans are also known as fee-for-service plans. These plans allow you to choose any dentist you want without any restrictions. You pay a monthly premium, and the insurance company pays a portion of the cost for the services provided by the dentist you choose. These plans generally have higher premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses than managed care plans.

Traditional indemnity plans offer more flexibility in choosing your dentist and are suitable for people who have established relationships with their dental care providers.

2. Managed Care Plans

Managed care plans are less expensive than traditional indemnity plans and are more commonly used in Tennessee. These plans limit your choice of dentist to a network of providers who have agreed to offer services to plan members at a discounted rate. There are three types of managed care plans:

a. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans

PPO plans allow you to choose dentists both in and out of the network. If you choose a network provider, you pay less out of pocket. However, if you choose a non-network provider, you will pay more for services.

b. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans

HMO plans require you to choose a primary care dentist who will be responsible for all your dental needs. You cannot see a specialist without a referral from your primary care dentist.

c. Point of Service (POS) Plans

POS plans are a combination of PPO and HMO plans. You can choose a network or non-network dentist. However, you will need a referral from your primary care dentist if you want to see a specialist.

Benefits of Dental Insurance in Tennessee

Having dental insurance in Tennessee offers several benefits, including:

1. Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental services, which helps reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. This is especially beneficial if you need extensive dental work or have a large family to cover.

2. Preventive Care

Dental insurance plans generally cover preventive care, such as regular checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. Preventive care can help detect and prevent dental problems early, saving you money and time in the long run.

3. Emergency Care

Accidents happen, and dental emergencies can be costly. Most dental insurance plans cover emergency care, such as tooth extractions, fillings, and root canals.

4. Orthodontic Treatment

Many dental insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment, such as braces and Invisalign. This is especially beneficial for children who need orthodontic treatment.

Dental Insurance Providers in Tennessee

There are several dental insurance providers in Tennessee. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular ones.

1. Delta Dental

Delta Dental is the largest dental insurance provider in the United States and offers several plans in Tennessee. Their plans cover preventive care, basic and major services, orthodontic treatment, and more.

2. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee offers dental plans that cover preventive care, basic and major services, and orthodontic treatment. Their plans also offer access to a large network of dental care providers.

3. Cigna

Cigna offers dental insurance plans that cover preventive care, basic and major services, and orthodontic treatment. Their plans also offer access to a large network of dental care providers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Will dental insurance cover all my dental expenses?

No, dental insurance will not cover all your dental expenses. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of services, and you will be responsible for paying the rest.

2. Can I choose any dentist with dental insurance?

It depends on the type of plan you have. Traditional indemnity plans allow you to choose any dentist you want, while managed care plans limit your choice of dentist to a network of providers.

3. What is a deductible?

A deductible is the amount of money you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance starts covering the cost of services.

4. Will dental insurance cover cosmetic procedures?

No, dental insurance generally does not cover cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers.

5. Can I cancel my dental insurance at any time?

It depends on the terms of your plan. Some plans may require you to commit to a certain length of time, while others may allow you to cancel at any time.

Insurance Provider	Plan Types	Network Size
Delta Dental	Traditional Indemnity, PPO, HMO	Large
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee	PPO, POS	Large
Cigna	PPO, HMO	Large

Conclusion

Dental insurance is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and preventing unexpected expenses related to dental care. Tennessee offers several dental insurance options, including traditional indemnity plans and managed care plans. Choosing the right plan depends on your individual needs and budget. It’s important to research the available options, benefits, and network size before making a decision. Contact a reputable insurance provider for more information and to get started with dental insurance in Tennessee.