Delta Dental is the largest dental benefits carrier in the country, and most of its plans follow the standard preventive, basic, and major structure — so what Delta covers depends heavily on which Delta plan you have. Here is how Delta Dental plans typically treat the procedures guests ask about most, and how to confirm your own coverage before treatment.
How Delta Dental plans are structured
Delta Dental is not a single plan. Most members have one of three products, and they behave differently. Delta Dental PPO and Delta Dental Premier are fee-for-service plans that let you visit any dentist, with your lowest out-of-pocket cost at an in-network dentist. DeltaCare USA is a DHMO that uses a fixed copay schedule and asks you to use an assigned network dentist. Knowing which you have is the first step to understanding your coverage.
Does Delta Dental cover implants?
Most Delta Dental PPO and Premier plans now treat implants as a major restorative service, commonly covering around 50% after any deductible and subject to your annual maximum. Some plans apply an alternate benefit (paying as if a bridge were used) or exclude implants entirely, so this is one to confirm in writing. For how implant billing is split across the post, abutment, and crown, see our guide on whether dental insurance covers dental implants.
Does Delta Dental cover braces and Invisalign?
Orthodontics, including Invisalign, is covered on many Delta Dental plans that carry an orthodontic benefit — usually a percentage of treatment up to a separate lifetime orthodontic maximum. A common limitation is that the benefit applies only to dependents under 19, so adult orthodontic coverage varies by plan. If your plan includes it, Invisalign is often eligible on the same terms as braces.
Does Delta Dental cover crowns and veneers?
Crowns are typically covered as a major service (commonly ~50%) when they are needed to restore a damaged tooth. Veneers are a different story: placed purely to improve appearance, they are considered cosmetic and are generally excluded. If a restoration is clinically necessary, a covered crown may accomplish a similar result — your dentist can advise.
Your annual maximum still applies
Whatever the percentages, Delta Dental plans cap what they pay in a plan year — commonly $1,000 to $2,000 — and that maximum usually resets each year without rolling over. For larger treatment, the maximum is often the real limit on what the plan contributes, so it is worth knowing how much is left before you schedule.
Find out what your Delta plan covers at Ideal Dental
Ideal Dental works with Delta Dental, verifies your benefits, and files your claims for you. The most reliable way to know your number is a predetermination of benefits before treatment. See our Delta Dental page for how we work with your plan, or book a visit at a location near you and we will confirm your coverage and estimated share up front.
Frequently asked questions
Does Delta Dental cover dental implants?
Many Delta Dental PPO and Premier plans cover implants as a major service, commonly around 50% after any deductible and subject to your annual maximum, though some plans apply an alternate benefit or exclude implants. DeltaCare USA, a DHMO, uses a set copay schedule instead. Check your specific plan or request a predetermination of benefits.
Does Delta Dental cover braces or Invisalign?
Orthodontic coverage, including Invisalign, is available on many Delta Dental plans that include an orthodontic benefit, often paying a percentage up to a separate lifetime orthodontic maximum. Many plans limit orthodontic benefits to dependents under 19, so adult coverage varies.
Does Delta Dental cover crowns?
Crowns are typically covered as a major restorative service on Delta Dental PPO and Premier plans, commonly around 50% after your deductible and subject to your annual maximum, when the crown is needed to restore a damaged tooth.
Does Delta Dental cover veneers?
Usually not. Veneers placed purely to improve appearance are considered cosmetic and are generally excluded. If a crown or other restoration is clinically necessary, that may be covered instead.
What is the difference between Delta Dental PPO, Premier, and DeltaCare USA?
Delta Dental PPO and Delta Dental Premier are fee-for-service plans that let you see any dentist, with the lowest out-of-pocket cost at in-network dentists. DeltaCare USA is a DHMO that uses a set copay schedule and requires you to use an assigned network dentist. Your coverage and costs depend on which plan you have.
How do I find out exactly what my Delta Dental plan covers?
Check your plan's summary of benefits, or ask your dentist's office to submit a predetermination of benefits — Delta responds in writing with what it will pay before treatment begins.