Is there a PPO Dental Plan without using an employer or group?

Answer 1

To find companies in your state that provide dental insurance or dental discount plans, go to the National Association of Dental Plans site (www.nadp.org) which has a directory of companies that offer dental insurance. The directory can be searched by state and you can select "individual" and get the list of just those companies that provide individual dental insurance in your state. The listing also tells you if the company provides dental HMO, dental PPO, dental indemnity (traditional insurance without a network) or a discount plan (not insurance but a discount off the dentist's fees who are part of the discount network).

other answers

* I don't believe so but I don't know of one that has such an extensive network that they are sure to include dentist near you. I know lots of problems with that is the referral process for specialists. == == * They are becoming scarce. It is usually because once you weigh the cost of the premiums verses the amount you receive in benefits, it's a no-brainer. For example: you purchase an individual policy that allows you to go to ANY dentist you choose-no networks, no HMO, no PPO,no restrictions at all-and you pay $150 per month in premiums. The policy pays 100% preventative, 80% for fillings and such, and 50% on big stuff like crowns. The annual maximum they'll pay for any and all treatment is $1500 (industry standard). If you look, you're paying $1800 per year for $1500 annual benefit. Just doesn't make financial sense to be doing that. Most insurance companies know that John Q. Public has wised up to the limitations and aren't offering those individual type of plans much more. So if you do find a plan, make sure to watch for limitations in the policy like the maximums, as well as any limits on "pre-existing conditions" or whatever else is in the fine print. == == * I have to agree that very often dental insurance is more expensive than the benefit. That said, I found a good solution that I find cost effective AND it does include benefits for out of network dentists. * I chose a bundled package of benefits that includes Ameritas Dental, VSP Vision, Liberty Medical (diabetic supplies), an Rx plan, and Accident supplemental & an AD&D. The whole package is only $69/month for the whole family and the dental benefit is up to $1000/year/person. The have a network benefit as well as a schedule of benefits for out of network dentists but it is generally less. * I found the combination of benefits and price a great combination. It is not available in all state but most.

Answer 2

* Florida Combined Life has one, its dba Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida * It all depends on where you are located. Spirit Dental is a very good, cost effective maint plan that can either work as an indemnity plan or claims filed by your dentist. I know it is available in the New England states and I am sure more.