How Much Does Dental Insurance Cost?

The costs of dental care can add up quickly, especially if you need a more complex procedure. Dental insurance can reduce your out-of-pocket costs for preventative care, basic services, and major procedures. Dental insurance is generally affordable, with the average cost of an individual dental HMO plan coming in around $15 per month, and an individual dental PPO plans at an estimated $42 per month.¹ Aflac offers network dental insurance plans with various coverage levels that can fit your budget and needs.

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Key Takeaways

An individual dental HMO plan can cost around $15 per month, while an individual PPO plan can cost around $42 per month.¹
Dental insurance is usually worth the cost because it helps cover routine care and can reduce your out-of-pocket costs for larger treatments.
Aflac offers network and supplemental dental insurance plans (additional coverage that helps pay for dental expenses not fully covered by primary insurance) for individuals to fit your budget and oral health needs.

How much is dental insurance?

The cost of dental insurance varies based on the type of coverage you choose.¹ There are several types of dental insurance plans, but the most common are:

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): This plan requires members to choose a primary dentist from a network and get referrals for specialists, typically covering preventive care with lower out-of-pocket costs but limited provider options. The average cost of an individual DHMO plan is $15.14 per month. Employer-provided DHMO plans may cost employees around $13.08 per month.¹
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): This flexible plan allows members to visit any dentist, with lower costs for in-network providers and higher premiums, making it ideal for those who want more provider choices. The average individual DPPO plan costs $41.76 per month, while employer-provided DPPO plans can cost employees about $34.71 per month.¹

What factors affect the cost of dental insurance?

There are several contributing factors that impact the cost of dental insurance. Knowing how they work can help you choose a policy that fits your needs and budget:

Type of plan

Dental insurance plans are structured and priced based on the providers you have access to:

Aflac dental insurance plans are considered passive PPOs, which give you flexibility to select your own dentist, although you may have to pay more out-of-pocket for services at an out-of-network dentist.
An HMO plan requires you to see an in-network dentist, but is usually less expensive.

Choosing between an HMO and a PPO often comes down to cost and control over your own care.

Deductibles and copays

In addition to your premiums, you typically pay deductibles and copays with any insurance plan:

The deductible is the minimum amount you’ll be responsible for paying before the plan’s coverage kicks in. A higher deductible means that you may pay more initial out-of-pocket expenses for dental services, but you could have a lower monthly premium.
The copay is a shared amount you’ll pay for specific services according to your plan. In the same way, a higher copay indicates greater out-of-pocket expense but generally comes with lower monthly premiums. Each plan works differently.

Coverage limits

Healthcare plans like dental insurance usually have annual maximum coverage limits (the greatest annual amount the insurer will pay toward your dental coverage). A high annual maximum may cost more per month, but could make dental insurance coverage worthwhile if you expect to need larger procedures.

Your location

Busy metropolitan areas may have higher rates for services since there is a greater demand and higher overhead costs. Rural locations with a smaller population and less competition may charge lower rates.

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Why the cost of dental insurance is worth it

Routine cleanings and exams can cost an average of $200 or more in out-of-pocket expenses.² Meanwhile, dental fillings can cost between $100 and $1,050,³ and tooth extractions can range from $75 to $550.⁴ Additionally, a dental crown can cost between $800 and $2,500.⁵ These costs can add up quickly, especially if you need multiple treatments or treatments on more than one tooth.

Without dental insurance, you would incur the costs of these procedures as out-of-pocket expenses. But with a dental insurance plan, you can keep those costs in check and enjoy added peace of mind when an unexpected dental surprise pops up.

Get a dental insurance quote today

Dental insurance can provide valuable coverage and help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for routine dental care and major dental services. Depending on the policy type and benefits, your coverage can help you manage dental expenses and ensure you have a healthy smile.

Aflac offers network dental insurance plans with a variety of coverage levels to fit various care needs. We also offer supplemental dental insurance that pays cash benefits to cover costs not covered by your primary plan. Chat with an agent to learn more about your coverage options and get a quote today.

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