Delta Dental Insurance

Delta Dental Insurance

Delta Dental Insurance began over 50 years ago, when dentists realized the need for more accessible oral and dental healthcare. In response to this need, several dentists across California, Oregon, and Washington banded together to form a large service network. In the beginning, benefit programs were created solely for labor unions.

In 1966, Delta Dental Plans Association was formed to provide coverage and coordinate benefits to a wide range of customers in multiple states.

Today, the organization operates in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, providing coverage to over 40 million people.

Packages Available

Delta Dental Insurance offers several packages with features geared toward specific groups. Companies are able to choose their packages based on the special needs of their employees.

Premier

• Nationwide fee-for-service program.
• Members are free to choose any dentist.
• When a participating dentist is chosen, incentives and out-of-pocket expensive are lowered.
• Patients do not have to file paperwork.
• Billing is handled on a previously agreed upon schedule.

PPO

• Lower cost option, but members can still choose their provider.
• When a preferred provider is chosen from the dentist network, a member experiences significant cost savings.
• Members can opt to use a non-network dentist for an increased fee.
• Patients do not have to file paperwork.

DeltaCare USA

• A prepaid dental coverage plan.
• Similar to an HMO, in that dentists are chosen from a panel of providers.
• Dentists are paid by a set fee every month that covers most commonly needed services.
• Good choice for people seeking lower costs, and has an emphasis on prevention of oral health problems.
• Pre-approved network of dental healthcare providers.
• Minimal to no patient cost for preventative care.

Select

• Originally for Uniformed Service Retirees and their families.
• Provides an option for employers seeking an enrollee paid voluntary benefits package.

Community Involvement and Insurance Services

Delta Dental Insurance is a company that cares about the people within it’s member network beyond the simple claim filing and form-filling.

The company makes an effort to be seen and heard within communities. One way they accomplish this is through their service programs:

• The Smilemobiles program involves a mobile unit that travels to inner city and rural areas to provide healthcare and education to kids.
• Through the Water Fluoridation program, the company works with towns to educate and support fluoridated water system programs in different states.
• The company's educational website allows visitors to access information relating to oral healthcare. Topics include cancer, orthodontics, surgeries, and cosmetic dentistry. A glossary of healthcare terms is available. Finally, a description of different professions explains what the specialty areas include.

Member Services Online

A “subscriber connection” on the website provides access to benefits, eligibility, and claims for those covered by Delta Dental Insurance. Members can search for a dentist in their area. They can also check out other services provided by member companies.

Dentists can access the website to check on their claims, make connections to other dentists, or get informational posters for their offices.