Question: Which plan is better, a PPO or an HMO?

Answer: Knowing your dental care needs would make it easier to say which plan type is the best because they service different needs as just one example. If you want to choose your dentist, a PPO plan better fits that need. An HMO plan may work better if you have current basic or major dental care that needs to be addressed. 

Knowing the pros and cons of each type of plan may help you choose a plan type. 

Pros and Cons of a PPO Dental Insurance Plan

Pros of a PPO dental insurance plan:

• You have the flexibility to choose your own dentist.
•  You are not required to select a primary care dentist.
•  You do not need a referral to see a specialist.
•  You typically have a higher annual maximum benefit amount.

Cons of a PPO dental insurance plan:

•  The premiums are generally higher compared to an HMO plan.
• You may have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs for services received from out-of-network providers.
•  Some services may not be covered or may have limited coverage.
•  You may have to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in.

Pros and Cons of a HMO Dental Insurance Plan

Pros of an HMO dental insurance plan:

• The premiums are generally lower compared to a PPO plan.
•  You typically have lower out-of-pocket costs for services received from in-network providers.
•  Preventive care services are often covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket costs.
•  There is no deductible to meet before coverage kicks in.

Cons of an HMO dental insurance plan:

• You are required to choose a primary care dentist from a network of providers.
•  You may need a referral from your primary care dentist to see a specialist.
•  There is no coverage for services received from out-of-network providers.

Call our member service line at 310-534-3444 so they can go over what you feel is important to you and then assist you with your search for the best dental insurance plan for your dental care needs.