Open enrollment season is here, and if you’re like most Phoenix families, you’re probably staring at a stack of insurance documents wondering which dental plan will actually work for your family’s needs. Here’s some good news: choosing the right dental coverage doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle in the dark.
What Makes Open Enrollment Different for Dental Care?
Unlike medical insurance, dental benefits operate on a calendar year basis, which means your coverage resets every January 1st. That unused $1,500 annual maximum? It disappears faster than ice cream in the Arizona sun. This is exactly why timing your family’s dental care around open enrollment matters so much.
Your phoenix dentist at Union Hills Family Dental Care & Orthodontics accepts three major insurance providers that consistently appear in employer benefit packages: Cigna, MetLife, and Delta Dental of Arizona. But before we dive into why these specific plans work so well for families, let’s talk about what you should actually be looking for.
How to Evaluate Dental Insurance During Open Enrollment
Annual Maximum Benefits: Most plans offer between $1,000-$2,000 per person annually. Higher maximums mean more coverage for major procedures like crowns or orthodontic treatment.
Preventive Care Coverage: Look for plans that cover routine cleanings, exams, and X-rays at 100%. This is where you’ll see the most immediate value as a family dentist patient.
Orthodontic Benefits: If anyone in your family needs braces or Invisalign, verify the lifetime maximum. Some plans offer $1,500-$2,000 for orthodontic treatment, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Network Providers: This is crucial. You want to confirm your preferred dental practice accepts your chosen plan before you commit to a year of coverage.
Why These Three Insurance Plans Work Well in Phoenix
Cigna Dental Insurance
Cigna consistently ranks as one of the most dentist-friendly insurance providers in the Phoenix area. Their preventive care coverage typically includes two cleanings per year, annual exams, and necessary X-rays at no cost to you. For families considering orthodontist services, many Cigna plans include orthodontic benefits with reasonable copayments.
MetLife Dental Plans
MetLife offers some of the most comprehensive coverage for restorative procedures. If you’ve been putting off dental work due to cost concerns, MetLife’s higher annual maximums often provide better coverage for crowns, fillings, and emergency treatments. Their regular dental care benefits make it easier to maintain consistent oral health throughout the year.
Delta Dental of Arizona
As a locally-focused plan, Delta Dental of Arizona understands the specific needs of Phoenix families. Their network includes most established dental practices in the area, and their claims processing tends to be straightforward and efficient. For families considering Invisalign treatment, Delta Dental often provides competitive coverage for clear aligner therapy.
When Insurance Isn’t Enough: In-House Payment Options
Here’s something most dental practices won’t tell you upfront: even excellent insurance doesn’t cover everything. Deductibles, copayments, and annual maximums can still leave families facing significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially for orthodontic treatment or major restorative work.
That’s where flexible financial information and in-house payment plans become invaluable. Union Hills Family Dental Care & Orthodontics offers payment arrangements that work around your family’s budget, not against it. Whether you’re planning braces for your teenager or need to spread the cost of multiple procedures across several months, having options beyond insurance creates peace of mind.
Maximizing Your Dental Benefits: A Strategic Approach
Schedule Cleanings Early: Book your family’s preventive appointments for January and July. This spacing ensures you use your full yearly allocation of covered cleanings.
Plan Major Work Thoughtfully: If you need extensive dental treatment, consider spreading procedures across two benefit years to maximize coverage.
Understand Your Waiting Periods: Many plans require waiting periods for major procedures. Factor this into your timeline, especially if you’re switching plans during open enrollment.
Keep Documentation: Save all dental receipts and insurance statements. Some dental expenses qualify for health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) reimbursement.
Take Action Before Open Enrollment Ends
Open enrollment periods are typically short, often lasting just a few weeks in late fall. Don’t let this opportunity slip by while you’re juggling other end-of-year responsibilities. Review your current dental coverage, compare it with available options, and consider how your family’s dental needs might change in the coming year.
Ready to make the most of your dental benefits? Contact your dentist in Phoenix, Union Hills Family Dental Care & Orthodontics, today to discuss your insurance options and schedule your family’s preventive care appointments for the new year. Your future self will thank you for taking action now.