Aetna Dental Insurance
Many employers offer Aetna dental insurance plans for their employees. Aetna’s employer-sponsored plans
encompass all three basic types of dental coverage. The Dental Maintenance Organization option provides excellent
in-network care at a lower cost than other types of plans, but requires that participants select a primary care
dentist for most of their routine care. For employees who need a greater level of choice in dentists, the Aetna
Dental PPO allows its members to choose their own dentist and allows specialist care without a referral. Aetna
Indemnity is the traditional percentage-based plan that requires members to meet a deductible up-front before any
insurance payments are made.
For individuals, families, and the self-employed, Aetna dental insurance offers two plans; prospective members can
choose between the Aetna Individual Advantage Dental PPO Plan and the Aetna Individual Advantage Dental PPO Plus
Plan; each covers standard preventive care including cleanings and basic x-rays. A percentage of major procedures
are also covered; these include periodontal care, simple extractions, oral surgery, root canals, crowns, dentures,
and other dental appliances and services. The basic plan pays for a lower percentage of dental costs than the
Dental PPO Plus plan and has a higher initial deductible. A waiting period applies to both plans for all procedures
other than basic diagnostic and preventive services. Aetna’s rates are slightly less for participants under the age
of 50; this allows Aetna to tailor its insurance coverage to the differing needs of older members and ensures the
highest level of dental care for all plan participants.
For all Aetna dental insurance plans, participants can realize significant savings by choosing in-network service
providers. In-network dentists have agreed to charge Aetna members a discounted rate for their services; this
allows cost control and can make dental procedures more affordable. Out-of-network services are still available to
Aetna members, but often cost considerably more and are usually covered at a reduced rate by the insurance
company.
Last Modified: 06 December 2009
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