Delta Dental Insurance is one of the most trusted names in dental benefits, offering affordable and accessible coverage to more than 80 million Americans. Whether you’re seeking dental insurance for yourself or your family, Delta Dental provides flexible plans designed to help you save money while keeping your smile healthy.
With over 60 years of industry experience and the nation’s largest network of dentists, it focuses on preventive care, convenience, and cost-effective protection. In this guide, we’ll explore who Delta Dental is, why dental insurance matters, and how to choose the best plan for your needs.
Who Is Delta Dental?
Delta Dental is a nationwide network of member companies providing high-quality, affordable dental coverage. As a nonprofit organization, its mission is to improve oral health across the U.S. by making dental care more accessible and effective.
They are committed to improving overall health by making quality dental care accessible to individuals and families across the country. With a purpose rooted in service and community impact, the organization focuses on preventive care and long-term wellness. Their approach is built on decades of industry leadership and a member-first mindset.
Guided by a clear vision, it empowers its employees to deliver exceptional service to customers, providers, and one another. The company promotes a workplace culture that values collaboration, respect, and continuous improvement. Every team member plays a role in creating a positive, results-driven experience for members.
Their core values, Trust, Service, Excellence, and Innovation, shape every decision and interaction. These principles drive the company to act with integrity, deliver empathetic support, and develop innovative tools that enhance care access. It’s this commitment to quality and service that makes them a top choice for millions each year.
What Sets Them Apart
- Coverage for over 80 million individuals nationwide
- Access to the largest network of dentists in the U.S.
- Over 60 years of dental insurance experience
- Strong focus on preventive care and wellness
They reinvest in improving benefits, supporting providers, and developing tools that help members manage their dental health with ease.
Why Dental Insurance Matters
According to Delta Dental’s Why Choose Dental Benefits resource, having dental insurance offers more than just coverage. It promotes lifelong health and reduces the risk of expensive complications.
Key Benefits of Dental Coverage
- Prevention saves money: Regular exams and cleanings prevent major procedures like root canals and crowns.
- Better health outcomes: Poor oral health can worsen conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
- Increased care access: People with insurance are twice as likely to visit the dentist annually.
- Cost control: Dental plans offer negotiated rates and lower out-of-pocket expenses.
- Financial peace of mind: Emergency coverage and predictable costs reduce stress.
Even for people with good oral hygiene, professional cleanings and early diagnosis through routine exams are essential.
Plan Options for Individuals & Families
They offer easy-to-enroll plans tailored to individuals and families, especially those who don’t receive employer-sponsored dental benefits. The quote page allows you to compare plans by ZIP code, get quotes, and choose your preferred coverage type.
They provide two primary types of dental insurance:
1. Delta Dental PPO and PPO Plus Premier
Its PPO plans offer great flexibility and cost-saving opportunities, especially when you visit in-network providers.
Highlights:
- Freedom of choice: Visit any licensed dentist, but save the most with PPO network dentists.
- Preventive care coverage: Routine cleanings and exams are often covered at 100%.
- Specialist access: No referrals required to see specialists.
- Cost-sharing model: Pay coinsurance for basic and major services.
- Dual networks: PPO + Premier networks expand dentist access.
This plan is ideal for those who want the flexibility to choose providers while minimizing costs when staying in-network.
2. DeltaCare® USA (HMO-Style Plan)
DeltaCare® USA offers a structured, affordable option with fixed copayments and no deductibles.
Highlights:
- Primary dentist model: Choose a primary care dentist from a defined network.
- No annual maximum or deductible
- Predictable costs: Fixed copays for all covered services.
- Preventive services at no cost: Exams, cleanings, and X-rays are often fully covered.
- Referral-based specialist access
This plan is perfect for individuals or families seeking simple, budget-friendly dental coverage without surprises.
NOTE: Coverage details and plan availability may vary by state and are subject to change. Always refer to your state-specific plan documents for the most accurate, current, and applicable benefit information.
PPO vs DeltaCare® USA: A Comparison
The table below provides a straightforward comparison between Delta Dental’s PPO and DeltaCare® USA plans, highlighting key features, costs, and coverage options. Understanding these differences can help you select the dental plan that best fits your needs and budget.
Sample Rates in Alabama, California, and West Virginia
To help you understand the affordability of Delta Dental insurance, below are sample monthly premium rates for individual coverage in select states. Rates may vary based on age, ZIP code, date of birth, and coverage start date. These examples are for illustrative purposes and reflect common pricing in each state.
🔎 Get an exact quote by visiting the enrollment site and entering your ZIP code.
- The rates below are based on the generated zip code, age 65 years old, with no dependents, and coverage starts on the 1st of July 2025. Rates vary based on ZIP Code, Age, date of birth, and coverage start date. (Monthly rates)
| ZIP CODE | Delta Dental PPO – Basic Plan | Delta Dental PPO – Premium Plan | DeltaCare USA |
| 35582 | $15.05 | $29.93 | Not Applicable |
| 90061 | $30.61 | $68.33 | $8.92 |
| 20747 | $20.55 | $40.16 | $20.33 |
- The rates below are based on the generated zip code, age 65 years old, with 1 dependent who is 60 years old, and coverage starts on the 1st of July 2025. Rates vary based on ZIP Code, Age, date of birth, and coverage start date. (Monthly rates)
| ZIP CODE | Delta Dental PPO – Basic Plan | Delta Dental PPO – Premium Plan | DeltaCare USA |
| 35582 | $30.10 | $59.86 | Not Applicable |
| 90061 | $61.22 | $136.66 | $17.83 |
| 20747 | $41.10 | $80.32 | $40.67 |
NOTE: Rates, coverage details, and plan availability are subject to change and are updated based on the most recent effective dates. Always review your state-specific plan documents for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Limits and Exclusions
Although Delta Dental offers comprehensive coverage, it’s important to understand that certain services and costs are limited or excluded under most plans. These limitations help ensure the plan remains affordable and efficient for all members.
Common limitations and exclusions include:
- Frequency limits on services such as cleanings, exams, and x-rays (e.g., two cleanings per year)
- Annual maximums on total benefits paid per member each year
- Waiting periods for specific procedures like crowns or orthodontics
- Age restrictions for orthodontic services or fluoride treatments
- No coverage for cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers
- Exclusion of experimental or non-medically necessary treatments
- Non-covered providers or services performed by someone not licensed
- Missed appointment fees and services not completed while coverage was active
- Excess charges beyond the plan’s allowed fee schedule
- Duplicate or redundant services are not deemed clinically necessary
NOTE: These exclusions vary by plan and state, so it’s important to review your policy documents carefully before scheduling treatment. Knowing these limits upfront helps avoid unexpected costs and ensures you maximize your dental benefits.
Choosing the Right Plan
When deciding between PPO and DeltaCare® USA, ask yourself the following:
- Do you want the freedom to choose your dentist?
→ Choose PPO
- Do you want predictable costs and lower monthly premiums?
→ Choose DeltaCare® USA
- Do you need specialist care or anticipate major procedures?
→ PPO may offer better access and cost-sharing options.
- Is your preferred dentist in the network?
Use Delta Dental’s “Find a Dentist” tool before choosing a plan.
How to Enroll
Delta Dental makes enrollment easy. Visit the Individuals & Families page to:
- Get personalized quotes
- Compare plan features
- Search for network dentists
- Use cost-estimator tools
- Access benefits documents
Whether you’re self-employed, between jobs, retired, or just shopping for a better option, they have a plan that fits your needs.
Final Thoughts
Delta Dental Insurance gives individuals and families the tools and coverage needed to maintain good oral health without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a PPO or the affordability of DeltaCare® USA, they offer trusted plans to meet your needs.
With a reputation built on trust, affordability, and accessibility, they continue to be the preferred choice for millions of Americans. Its expansive dentist network, budget-friendly premiums, and strong emphasis on preventive care make it a standout provider in the dental insurance market. Backed by decades of industry experience and reliable customer support, the company offers individuals and families the confidence they need to prioritize their oral health without compromising on cost or convenience.
Explore your options, compare costs, and start protecting your smile today!
👉 Visit the Delta Dental website to get a quote and enroll online!
