Ameritas Dental Insurance: Everything You Need to Know Before You Enroll 🦷📜
Choosing the right dental insurance is essential for ensuring access to quality care, affordable services, and hassle-free claims. Ameritas Dental is a major player in the insurance market, offering various plans that cater to individuals, families, and employers. But how does it stack up in terms of coverage, costs, customer experience, and reliability?
📌 Quick Answers: What You Need to Know
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| What makes Ameritas Dental stand out? | Large provider network, affordable premiums, and strong preventive care focus. |
| Does Ameritas offer nationwide coverage? | Yes! Ameritas operates in all 50 states. |
| Can I see any dentist? | With PPO & indemnity plans, yes. But DHMO plans require in-network providers. |
| Are there waiting periods? | Some plans waive waiting periods for major services if you had prior dental coverage. |
| Does Ameritas cover orthodontics? | Some plans include braces coverage, primarily for children. |
| What’s the biggest complaint about Ameritas? | Claim denials & inaccurate provider lists are common concerns. |
| How much does Ameritas dental insurance cost? | Plans start at $20/month, but rates vary based on location and coverage. |
💡 What Are the Key Features of Ameritas Dental Insurance?
Ameritas offers a wide range of dental plans, each with unique benefits and limitations. Here’s what you need to know about their core features.
| Feature | What It Means for You? | 👍 Advantage or 👎 Limitation? |
|---|---|---|
| Large Network | Access to 100,000+ dentists across the U.S. | 👍 Easier to find an in-network provider |
| Preventive Care | Cleanings, exams, and X-rays often covered at 100% | 👍 No out-of-pocket costs for basic care |
| Annual Maximums | Ranges from $1,000 to $2,500+ per year | 👍 Higher limits than some competitors |
| Waiting Periods | May apply for major procedures, but can be waived with prior coverage | 👎 Can delay urgent dental work |
| Orthodontic Coverage | Available in select plans for children | 👍 Helps with expensive braces |
| Deductibles | Often waived for preventive care | 👍 Lower upfront costs |
| Vision Add-On | Some plans include vision benefits at no extra cost | 👍 Combined savings on eye & dental care |
💡 Pro Tip: Look for Preventive Plus plans, which ensure routine cleanings don’t count against your annual coverage limit.
🏥 What Types of Ameritas Dental Plans Are Available?
Ameritas offers multiple plan options to fit different needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main types.
| Plan Type | How It Works? 🏥 | Best For? 👤 |
|---|---|---|
| PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) | See any dentist, but in-network providers cost less | Most people who want flexibility |
| Indemnity (Fee-for-Service) | Get treated anywhere; Ameritas reimburses a portion of costs | People who already have a trusted dentist |
| DHMO (Dental HMO) | Requires choosing a primary in-network dentist | Those looking for lower premiums |
| PrimeStar (Boost, Access, Complete, Total) | Varies by plan—offers different coverage levels for basic and major care | Individuals & families with specific needs |
💡 Pro Tip: PPO plans are the most popular choice because they allow you to visit any dentist while still getting discounted rates in-network.
💰 How Much Does Ameritas Dental Insurance Cost?
Your monthly premium depends on the plan type, coverage level, and location.
| Coverage Level | Estimated Cost 💰 | What’s Included? 🦷 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Plan | $20 – $30 per month | Covers preventive care & some basic procedures |
| Mid-Tier Plan | $35 – $55 per month | Adds fillings, extractions, & some major services |
| Comprehensive Plan | $60 – $90 per month | Covers crowns, dentures, implants, and sometimes orthodontics |
💡 Pro Tip: If you need major dental work (like implants or root canals), consider a higher-tier plan with a higher annual maximum to avoid unexpected expenses.
🚨 What Are the Most Common Complaints About Ameritas Dental?
While Ameritas is well-rated overall, some customers have experienced issues.
| Complaint | What Happens? ❌ | How to Avoid It? ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Claim Denials | Some procedures are not covered as expected | Always verify coverage before treatment |
| Inaccurate Provider Lists | Some “in-network” dentists don’t accept Ameritas anymore | Call your provider before making an appointment |
| Confusing Policy Terms | Customers misunderstand waiting periods or coverage limits | Read plan details carefully & ask customer service for clarification |
| Slow Reimbursement | Out-of-network claims can take weeks to process | Submit claims online for faster processing |
💡 Pro Tip: Always double-check your provider’s network status with Ameritas before scheduling an appointment to avoid surprise out-of-pocket costs.
🔍 How Does Ameritas Compare to Other Dental Insurance Providers?
How does Ameritas stack up against competitors like Delta Dental, Cigna, and MetLife?
| Company | Network Size 🌍 | Preventive Coverage ✅ | Major Care Coverage 🏥 | Average Cost 💰 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ameritas | 100,000+ providers | 100% covered | 50%+ coverage on some plans | $20 – $90/month |
| Delta Dental | 150,000+ providers | 100% covered | Varies by plan | $25 – $100/month |
| Cigna | 93,000+ providers | 100% covered | Varies, some include implants | $30 – $85/month |
| MetLife | 120,000+ providers | 100% covered | Often covers implants & major work | $35 – $90/month |
💡 Pro Tip: If having a large provider network is important, Delta Dental may be a better option, while Ameritas is great for affordability & vision add-ons.
📝 Key Takeaways
- Ameritas Dental offers flexible plans with affordable premiums and nationwide coverage.
- Best for preventive care—cleanings, exams, and X-rays are often covered at 100%.
- Some plans waive waiting periods for major procedures if you had prior coverage.
- PPO plans allow for out-of-network visits, but DHMO plans require in-network care.
- Common complaints include provider list inaccuracies & claim denials—double-check details before getting treatment.
- Compared to competitors, Ameritas stands out for affordability and its vision coverage options.
FAQs 💬
🦷 “Is Ameritas Dental Insurance Worth It Compared to Other Providers?”
Ameritas stands out for affordable pricing, extensive provider networks, and a strong focus on preventive care, but how does it compare to other major insurers?
| Feature | Ameritas 🦷 | Delta Dental | Cigna Dental | MetLife Dental |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network Size | 100,000+ dentists | 150,000+ providers | 93,000+ providers | 120,000+ providers |
| Preventive Coverage | 100% covered (most plans) | 100% covered | 100% covered | 100% covered |
| Major Services Coverage | 50%+ on some plans | 50%+ on premium plans | Some cover implants | Implants & bridges covered |
| Waiting Periods | Varies; waived for prior coverage | Some plans have 6-12 months | Common for major services | Shorter waiting periods |
| Orthodontic Coverage | Limited, mostly for children | Offered on high-tier plans | Available in some plans | Often included |
| Average Cost | $20 – $90/month | $25 – $100/month | $30 – $85/month | $35 – $90/month |
💡 Pro Tip: If cost-effectiveness and preventive care are your top priorities, Ameritas is an excellent choice. However, if you need more comprehensive orthodontic or implant coverage, MetLife or Cigna may be better suited.
📄 “Why Do Some Ameritas Claims Get Denied?”
Claim denials are one of the biggest complaints among Ameritas members. Understanding why claims are denied can help you avoid unexpected costs.
| Reason for Denial | What Happens? ❌ | How to Prevent It? ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Out-of-Network Provider | Services are denied or reimbursed at lower rates | Check if your dentist is in-network before treatment |
| Waiting Period Not Met | Major services may be denied if you haven’t had the plan long enough | Choose a plan that waives waiting periods for prior coverage |
| Non-Covered Procedure | Some plans exclude implants, cosmetic work, or advanced procedures | Review policy details before scheduling treatment |
| Incorrect Billing Codes | Dentists sometimes submit wrong codes, causing claim rejection | Ask your dentist’s office to verify codes before submitting |
| Plan Maximum Reached | If you’ve hit your annual maximum, additional claims may be denied | Consider a plan with higher coverage limits ($2,500+) |
💡 Pro Tip: If your claim is denied unfairly, you can appeal the decision by submitting supporting documentation from your dentist.
🏥 “Does Ameritas Cover Dental Implants?”
Dental implants are one of the most expensive procedures, and coverage varies widely between insurers.
| Plan Type | Covers Implants? 🦷 | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic PPO Plan | ❌ No coverage | Only includes extractions & dentures |
| Mid-Tier PPO Plan | ⚠️ Partial coverage | May cover abutments & crowns but not surgery |
| Comprehensive Plan | ✅ Yes, up to 50% | Typically requires a 12-month waiting period |
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re getting implants, ask your dentist for a pre-treatment estimate and check whether other financing options (like CareCredit) might help with costs.
📢 “Why Is My Dentist Listed as ‘In-Network’ but Not Accepting Ameritas?”
Many policyholders report dentists listed as in-network on the Ameritas website but later find that the provider doesn’t actually accept Ameritas plans.
| Why This Happens? 🤔 | How to Fix It? ✅ |
|---|---|
| Dentist recently left the network | Always call your provider before booking an appointment |
| Plan-specific restrictions | Confirm your exact plan name with your dentist |
| Ameritas’ directory isn’t updated in real-time | Cross-check Ameritas’ website with your provider’s office |
💡 Pro Tip: Call both Ameritas and your dentist’s office to ensure your plan is accepted before making an appointment.
💡 “Does Ameritas Offer Dental Plans with No Waiting Period?”
Yes! Ameritas has some plans that waive waiting periods, but eligibility depends on your prior coverage history.
| Plan Type | Waiting Period for Major Work? | How to Get It Waived? ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Plans | 6–12 months | Cannot be waived |
| Mid-Tier Plans | May have a waiting period | Waived if switching from another insurer |
| High-Tier Plans | No waiting period | Must show proof of continuous coverage |
💡 Pro Tip: If you need immediate major dental work, choose a plan that waives waiting periods for prior insurance.
📈 “Is Ameritas Good for Seniors?”
Seniors often need more major dental work, making it crucial to choose a plan with high annual limits and comprehensive coverage.
| Factor | Why It Matters for Seniors? 👵 | Ameritas Rating ⭐ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maximum | Seniors often exceed basic $1,000 limits | ⭐ 4/5 (Offers up to $2,500+) |
| Major Services | Crowns, dentures, and bridges are common needs | ⭐ 3.5/5 (Coverage varies) |
| Implants | Alternative to dentures for tooth loss | ⭐ 3/5 (Limited implant coverage) |
| Orthodontics | Less relevant for seniors | ⭐ 2/5 (Mostly for kids) |
| Vision & Hearing Add-ons | Helps reduce costs for glasses, hearing aids | ⭐ 5/5 (Bundled options available) |
💡 Pro Tip: Seniors needing dentures or implants should look for high-tier plans with maximum annual limits to avoid out-of-pocket expenses.
🔍 “What Are the Best Ways to Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs with Ameritas?”
Even with insurance, dental work can be expensive. Here’s how to maximize your benefits and minimize your costs.
| Money-Saving Tip 💰 | How It Helps? ✅ |
|---|---|
| Use an In-Network Dentist | Cuts costs by 20–50% compared to out-of-network providers |
| Choose a Plan with ‘Preventive Plus’ | Keeps cleanings & exams from counting toward your annual max |
| Bundle Dental & Vision | Some plans offer vision coverage for free |
| Ask for a Pre-Treatment Estimate | Lets you know exactly what’s covered before treatment |
| Use an HSA or FSA | Can pay for copays, deductibles, and non-covered treatments tax-free |
💡 Pro Tip: Preventive Plus plans help you save more over time by ensuring routine cleanings don’t reduce your annual benefit amount.
🦷 “How Does Ameritas Handle Pre-Existing Dental Conditions?”
Ameritas does not deny coverage due to pre-existing dental conditions, but coverage for treatment depends on your plan type.
| Condition | Does Ameritas Cover It? ✅❌ | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cavities & Fillings | ✅ Yes | Usually covered at 80% after deductible |
| Gum Disease (Periodontitis) | ✅ Yes | Scaling & root planing may be covered at 50% |
| Root Canals | ✅ Yes | Major services may have a waiting period |
| Dental Implants | ⚠️ Partial Coverage | Only some plans cover implants (check fine print) |
| Tooth Loss Before Enrollment | ❌ No Coverage | Plans typically don’t cover missing tooth replacement |
💡 Pro Tip: If you need immediate dental work, look for Ameritas plans with no waiting period or get a supplemental discount plan for uncovered treatments.
💰 “Why Do Ameritas Premiums Vary by Location?”
Insurance costs fluctuate based on state regulations, local provider contracts, and regional cost of living.
| Factor | How It Affects Your Premium? 📉📈 |
|---|---|
| State Regulations | Some states mandate higher minimum coverage, increasing costs |
| Dentist Network Size | More in-network providers lower costs, while smaller networks raise premiums |
| Cost of Living | Higher healthcare costs in cities increase premiums |
| Claim History in Region | Areas with higher dental claims lead to increased pricing |
💡 Pro Tip: Premiums in rural areas can be lower, but fewer in-network providers may mean higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.
📑 “Can I Upgrade or Change My Ameritas Plan Mid-Year?”
Changes to your Ameritas plan depend on how you enrolled.
| Enrollment Type | Can You Change Plans Mid-Year? 🔄 | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Employer-Sponsored Plan | ❌ No (unless you have a qualifying life event) | Only during open enrollment or after major life changes (marriage, job loss, etc.) |
| Individual & Family Plan | ✅ Yes, but with restrictions | You may switch plans but must wait for new benefits to kick in |
💡 Pro Tip: If your plan isn’t working for you, consider supplemental dental plans instead of waiting for the next enrollment period.
🏥 “Does Ameritas Offer Discounts for Families?”
Ameritas provides family plan discounts, where adding more members lowers the per-person cost.
| Family Size 👨👩👧👦 | Discount Applied 💰 |
|---|---|
| 2 People (Spouse/Partner) | 5% – 10% savings |
| 3+ People (Children Included) | Up to 20% savings |
| Employer Group Plans | Varies by company but often significant savings |
💡 Pro Tip: If you have multiple dependents, consider higher-tier plans with larger annual maximums to avoid running out of coverage mid-year.
🦷 “What’s the Best Ameritas Plan for Major Dental Work?”
If you need crowns, root canals, or implants, choosing the right plan is crucial to reducing costs.
| Procedure | Coverage on Basic Plan ❌ | Coverage on Mid-Tier Plan ⚠️ | Coverage on Comprehensive Plan ✅ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fillings & Simple Extractions | ✅ Covered (80%) | ✅ Covered (80%) | ✅ Covered (80%) |
| Root Canals & Crowns | ❌ Not Covered | ⚠️ Covered at 50% after waiting period | ✅ Covered at 50%+ with higher annual max |
| Dental Implants | ❌ No Coverage | ⚠️ Partial Coverage | ✅ Up to 50% covered after waiting period |
| Bridges & Dentures | ❌ No Coverage | ⚠️ Limited Coverage | ✅ Better reimbursement rates |
💡 Pro Tip: If you expect major dental work, get a plan with an annual maximum of $2,000+, or consider supplemental insurance to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
📞 “How Responsive is Ameritas Customer Service?”
Ameritas customer service is generally well-rated, but wait times and response quality vary.
| Contact Method 📲 | Response Time ⏳ | Best For? ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Phone Support | 5 – 15 min wait time | Urgent claim issues & pre-approvals |
| Online Chat | Faster but limited hours | General questions & account management |
| Email Support | 24–48 hours | Non-urgent inquiries & documentation requests |
| Mobile App & Online Portal | Instant access | Checking benefits, claims, and provider directories |
💡 Pro Tip: Call early in the morning (8 AM – 10 AM) for the shortest wait times.
📈 “Are Ameritas Dental Plans Good for Retirees?”
Retirees often require more dental care, so having a plan that minimizes out-of-pocket costs is critical.
| Retiree Concern 👵 | How Ameritas Helps? ✅ |
|---|---|
| High Cost of Dentures & Crowns | Comprehensive plans offer partial coverage & high annual max |
| Limited Medicare Dental Benefits | Ameritas fills coverage gaps not included in Medicare |
| Vision & Hearing Care Needs | Some plans bundle dental, vision, & hearing coverage |
| Fixed Income Budgeting | Ameritas offers low-cost preventive plans to reduce long-term expenses |
💡 Pro Tip: Retirees who need regular dental care should choose a PPO plan with no waiting period for preventive services.
💳 “Can I Use an HSA or FSA with Ameritas?”
Yes! Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can cover dental expenses, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
| Eligible Expenses | Can You Use HSA/FSA? ✅❌ |
|---|---|
| Routine Cleanings & Exams | ✅ Yes |
| Fillings, Crowns, & Root Canals | ✅ Yes |
| Braces & Orthodontics | ✅ Yes |
| Teeth Whitening (Cosmetic Work) | ❌ No |
| Dental Implants | ✅ Yes, if medically necessary |
💡 Pro Tip: If your plan has high out-of-pocket costs, using an HSA/FSA can save up to 30% on dental expenses through tax-free spending.
📜 “What Should I Ask Before Enrolling in an Ameritas Plan?”
Before choosing a plan, make sure to ask these critical questions to avoid coverage surprises.
| Key Question | Why It Matters? 🤔 |
|---|---|
| What’s the annual maximum? | Ensures you won’t run out of coverage for major work |
| Are waiting periods waived for previous coverage? | Helps avoid delays in getting treatment |
| Does this plan cover my specific dentist? | Prevents unexpected out-of-network costs |
| Are preventive visits excluded from the annual max? | Maximizes coverage for major procedures |
💡 Pro Tip: Always read the fine print to ensure your plan covers your specific dental needs and providers.
🦷 “Why Do Some Dentists Accept Ameritas but Are Still Considered Out-of-Network?”
This situation confuses many policyholders, and it happens because dental offices may accept Ameritas reimbursement but not participate in Ameritas’ network agreements.
| Reason Dentists Are “Out-of-Network” Despite Accepting Ameritas 🏥 | What It Means for You? 🤔 |
|---|---|
| Dentist Doesn’t Have a PPO Contract with Ameritas | You can still receive care, but your costs will be higher because Ameritas reimburses at out-of-network rates. |
| Provider Recently Left the Network | Ameritas’ website may not immediately update their provider lists, leading to outdated information. |
| Dentist Accepts Direct Payment from Patients | The office bills Ameritas for reimbursement, but they aren’t bound by Ameritas’ negotiated rates. |
💡 Pro Tip: Always call your dental provider before scheduling and ask specifically if they are in-network for your plan type.
📜 “What Are Ameritas’ Most Affordable Plans?”
If you’re budget-conscious, Ameritas offers low-cost plans with a focus on preventive care while limiting major service coverage.
| Plan Type | Monthly Premium 💰 | Best For? ✅ | Limitations ❌ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Preventive Plan | $20 – $30 | Those who only need cleanings & exams | No coverage for major work like crowns or root canals |
| Mid-Tier PPO | $35 – $55 | Balanced coverage for fillings & extractions | Some waiting periods apply for major work |
| Comprehensive PPO | $60 – $90 | Best for crowns, implants & orthodontics | Higher monthly cost but better long-term savings |
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re looking for low-cost dental care, a preventive plan combined with an HSA or discount dental plan can minimize expenses.
⏳ “How Can I Avoid Long Waiting Periods for Major Dental Work?”
Waiting periods are a common hurdle, especially for expensive procedures like root canals, crowns, and implants. However, you can reduce or eliminate them with strategic planning.
| Strategy | How It Works? ✅ |
|---|---|
| Choose a Plan That Waives Waiting Periods | Some Ameritas plans remove waiting periods if you had prior continuous coverage. |
| Look for Employer-Sponsored Plans | Group plans through employers often have no waiting period. |
| Use a Discount Plan Temporarily | While waiting, a dental discount plan can reduce costs for immediate treatment. |
| Get Treatment in Phases | Some procedures, like implants, have steps that can be spread over time while waiting periods expire. |
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask Ameritas if prior dental insurance counts toward waiting period waivers before enrolling.
🦷 “What’s the Best Ameritas Plan for Orthodontics?”
Orthodontic coverage varies between Ameritas plans, and it’s usually more common in employer-sponsored plans than individual ones.
| Plan Type | Orthodontic Coverage? 🤨 | Limitations ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Basic PPO & DHMO Plans | ❌ No Coverage | Not designed for orthodontic treatment. |
| Mid-Tier PPO Plans | ⚠️ Limited Coverage | Mostly for children, with waiting periods. |
| Comprehensive Plans (PrimeStar Total, Employer Plans) | ✅ Yes, 50%+ coverage | Waiting period applies, and max lifetime limit applies (~$1,500 per person). |
💡 Pro Tip: If you need braces for a child, look for employer-sponsored plans that offer orthodontic benefits without a long waiting period.
📉 “Why Did My Ameritas Reimbursement Seem Lower Than Expected?”
Ameritas reimburses based on an allowed amount, which may differ from what your dentist charges.
| Reason for Lower Reimbursement 📉 | What Happens? ❌ | How to Avoid It? ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Dentist Charged Above Ameritas’ Negotiated Rate | You must pay the difference between Ameritas’ rate and what your provider billed. | Always ask for a pre-treatment estimate. |
| You Saw an Out-of-Network Dentist | Ameritas only reimburses a percentage of what they consider reasonable. | Choose an in-network provider for maximum coverage. |
| Annual Maximum Was Reached | Once you hit $1,000 – $2,500 in claims, you pay 100% of costs for the rest of the year. | Consider a plan with a higher annual maximum. |
💡 Pro Tip: Always request an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from Ameritas before treatment to understand what will actually be covered.
📈 “Is Ameritas a Good Choice for Self-Employed Individuals?”
Ameritas is a solid option for freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed professionals, especially for preventive and mid-tier coverage.
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Low-cost preventive plans available | No employer-subsidized options, making costs higher |
| Nationwide provider network | Orthodontic & major work coverage can be limited |
| Flexible plan options | Higher deductibles than some employer-sponsored plans |
| Vision benefits bundled in some plans | Waiting periods for major work |
💡 Pro Tip: Self-employed individuals should consider pairing Ameritas with an HSA (Health Savings Account) to cover out-of-pocket expenses tax-free.
💳 “Can I Pay My Ameritas Premiums with an HSA or FSA?”
While dental treatments are HSA/FSA-eligible, monthly insurance premiums are not.
| Expense Type | HSA/FSA Eligible? ✅❌ |
|---|---|
| Preventive Care (Cleanings, Exams, X-rays) | ✅ Yes |
| Fillings, Crowns, Root Canals | ✅ Yes |
| Dental Implants (if medically necessary) | ✅ Yes |
| Braces & Orthodontics | ✅ Yes |
| Teeth Whitening (Cosmetic Procedure) | ❌ No |
| Insurance Premiums | ❌ No |
💡 Pro Tip: You can’t use an HSA/FSA for premiums, but you can use them for copays, deductibles, and non-covered dental work.
📞 “How Do I Contact Ameritas for Faster Support?”
Ameritas offers multiple contact methods, but response times vary based on inquiry type.
| Method 📲 | Best For? ✅ | Estimated Response Time ⏳ |
|---|---|---|
| Phone (800-487-5553) | Claims issues & policy questions | 5-15 minutes (call early for shorter wait times) |
| Live Chat (Website/App) | Quick questions, eligibility, benefits | Instant or 5-10 min wait |
| Email Support | Documentation requests, claim disputes | 24-48 hours |
| Online Portal | Checking claims, coverage, & provider lists | Instant |
💡 Pro Tip: Call early in the morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) to avoid long wait times.
