Principal Dental Insurance: Protecting Your Oral Health

Dental health is a critical aspect of overall wellbeing. Many people put off routine dental checkups, cleanings, and treatments due to the cost. However, by investing in dental insurance, you can safeguard your oral health while keeping costs low. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of Principal Dental Insurance, a leading provider of dental insurance plans.

What is Principal Dental Insurance?

Principal Dental Insurance is a subsidiary of Principal Financial Group, a global investment management and financial services company. Principal Dental Insurance offers a range of dental insurance plans to meet the needs of individuals, families, and businesses.

How Does Principal Dental Insurance Work?

Principal Dental Insurance plans work like traditional insurance policies. You pay a monthly premium, and in return, the insurance company covers a portion of your dental expenses. Depending on the plan you choose, you may have to pay a deductible or copayments.

Most Principal Dental Insurance plans have network providers. If you visit a dentist within the network, you’ll pay lower out-of-pocket costs. However, if you visit an out-of-network dentist, you may have to pay more.

What Does Principal Dental Insurance Cover?

Principal Dental Insurance plans cover a range of dental services, including:

Service	What’s Covered
Preventive care	Exams, cleanings, fluoride treatment, sealants
Basic restorative care	Fillings, extractions, root canals
Major restorative care	Crowns, bridges, dentures, implants
Orthodontics	Braces, retainers

Some plans also cover cosmetic dentistry services like teeth whitening and veneers. However, these services are typically not covered under most insurance plans.

What Are the Benefits of Principal Dental Insurance?

There are several benefits of choosing Principal Dental Insurance, including:

• Flexible plan options to meet your individual or family needs
• Access to a large network of dentists and specialists
• A range of services covered, from routine checkups to major restorative treatments
• A variety of payment options, including direct billing to your dentist
• 24/7 online access to your account information and claims status

Principal Dental Insurance Plans

Principal Dental Insurance offers several plan options to meet the needs of different individuals and families. Here are some of the most popular plans:

1. Principal Dental PPO

The Principal Dental PPO is a preferred provider organization plan that offers a wide network of dentists and specialists. You can visit any dentist, but you’ll save money if you choose a provider within the network. This plan covers preventive, basic, and major restorative services, as well as orthodontics.

2. Principal Dental Access

The Principal Dental Access plan is a discount dental plan that offers reduced fees for services from participating dentists. This plan is ideal for those who don’t need comprehensive coverage but still want to save money on dental care.

3. Principal Dental DHMO

The Principal Dental DHMO is a dental health maintenance organization plan that offers a low-cost option for preventive and basic services. This plan requires you to choose a primary care dentist from within the network and receive all services from that provider.

How to Choose the Right Principal Dental Insurance Plan

Choosing the right dental insurance plan can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision:

1. Determine Your Needs

Consider your dental health history and the services you expect to need in the future. This will help you choose a plan that provides adequate coverage for your needs.

2. Evaluate the Network

Check the provider network to ensure there are dentists in your area that participate in the plan. If you have a preferred dentist, make sure they’re in-network to save on costs.

3. Compare Costs

Compare premiums, deductibles, and copayments to determine which plan fits your budget. Keep in mind that a higher premium may result in lower out-of-pocket costs in the long run.

4. Read the Fine Print

Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the plan, including any exclusions or limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a deductible?

A deductible is the amount you’re required to pay before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible, you’ll have to pay the first $500 of your dental expenses before your insurance begins covering costs.

What’s the difference between in-network and out-of-network dentists?

An in-network dentist is one who has agreed to provide services at a discounted rate to members of the insurance plan. Out-of-network dentists may charge more, and you may have to pay a higher percentage of the cost.

Can I use my dental insurance for cosmetic dentistry services?

Cosmetic dentistry services like teeth whitening and veneers are typically not covered under most insurance plans. However, you may have coverage for services that are necessary for oral health, such as a crown to repair a damaged tooth.

Is there a waiting period before I can use my dental insurance?

Most dental insurance plans have a waiting period before you’re eligible for certain services. For example, there may be a six-month waiting period before you can receive a filling. However, preventive services like cleanings are typically covered immediately.

Can I keep my current dentist if I choose a Principal Dental Insurance plan?

Most Principal Dental Insurance plans allow you to choose any dentist, but you’ll save money if you choose a provider within the network.

In Conclusion

Investing in dental insurance is a smart way to protect your oral health and keep costs low. Principal Dental Insurance offers a range of plans to meet the needs of individuals, families, and businesses. By choosing the right plan and understanding your benefits, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come.