Dental Insurance in California

Dental insurance in California is somewhat similar to medical insurance, but it generally covers fewer procedures. When searching for a dental insurance plan, make sure to consider what you can afford and how your family’s dental needs are met. While there are multiple dental insurance options available to you in California, each of them possess both advantages and drawbacks.

Types of dental plans

California dental insurance is classified into two categories: indemnity and managed-care plans. With the indemnity plans, a wider range of care providers is offered, but the up-front cost is often more. Indemnity insurance requires you to pay your dental bills right away and subsequently wait for your insurance to reimburse you. On the flip side, managed care offers you a provider network instead of your choice of provider. However, participating care providers within a managed-care plan generally submit your insurance claim for you, thereby alleviating the big up-front bill.

What the plans cover

Dental plans in the state of California generally cover preventative care, emergency procedures and certain diagnostic services. Your dental insurance provider usually covers routine cleanings, crowns and fillings, x-rays and medically required procedures, such as oral surgery or tooth replacement. Not all insurance providers fully cover each of these procedures, so it is best to carefully review your plan both before you buy and before you visit your dentist for a particular procedure.

There is a gap in the quality of dental coverage in California, which depends on cost. The indemnity plans are common and less expensive, but they require the consumer to pay out of pocket first. Managed-care plans usually provide more services, but they are usually only paid for by large employers.