Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.
See all posts Rohit MittalBest Affordable Dental Insurance For Immigrants
Updated on January 8, 2024
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At a Glance
- Affordable dental insurance options for immigrants include Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Guardian, and Humana.
- These providers offer comprehensive coverage with varying premiums and dentists’ networks, addressing the challenges immigrants may face in securing dental insurance.
- Consider important factors such as waiting periods and out-of-network costs when choosing the best plan to ensure good oral health.
- Immigrants encounter unique challenges, including language differences and financial constraints, but neglecting dental care can lead to more serious and expensive issues.
Table of Contents
The 5 Best Dental Insurance Plans for Immigrants
Securing dental insurance can be challenging for immigrants, but it is essential for maintaining good oral and overall health. To help make the process easier, here is a curated list of five top dental insurance providers specifically catering to immigrants. These providers offer affordable premiums, comprehensive coverage, and access to extensive networks of dentists. Take a closer look at each option to find the best fit for your dental insurance needs.
1. Blue Cross Blue Shield
★★★★★ 5.0 Deductible Range: $50-$150 Network Size: 95,000+ Visit ProviderOverview
BCBS has a reputation for reliable coverage and preventing excessive out-of-pocket costs. They provide dental insurance options in 30 states with premiums averaging $20-75 per month. Many plans include discounts on braces, tooth implants, dentures, and more specialized treatments. Their network includes over 95,000 dentists.Services
- Preventive and diagnostic services
- Restorative treatments like fillings
- Oral surgery
- Endodontics, periodontics
Pros and Cons
Pros- Accepted by many dentists
- Some plans include vision and hearing care
- Pre-existing condition exclusions
- Higher premiums than some other carriers
2. Guardian
★★★★★ 5.0 Deductible Range: $50-$100 Network Size: Large networks Visit ProviderOverview
Guardian utilizes large dentist networks like DenteMax and United Healthcare to provide dental insurance across most states. Premium costs are affordable, averaging $22-55 per month for individuals. Guardian offers plans that are customizable with varied deductibles, coverage levels for basic and major dental work, and discounts on orthodontics.Services
- Diagnostic and preventive dentistry
- Basic and major restorative treatments
- Orthodontics and pediatric specialty care
Pros and Cons
Pros- Rates don’t increase with age
- No waiting period for orthodontic coverage
- Smaller national footprint
- Mixed reviews on customer service
3. Humana
★★★★☆ 4.0 Deductible Range: $50-$150 Network Size: Not disclosed Visit ProviderOverview
Humana is another leading insurance company providing dental coverage in most states. They have three main plan types – prepaid plans with set copays per service, deductible plans covering basic and major services, and preventive plans with 100% coverage on cleanings and x-rays but limited coverage on fillings, root canals etc. Premiums range from $13 for preventive plans up to $50 monthly for more comprehensive coverage.Services
- Routine cleanings and exams
- X-rays, fillings, tooth extractions
- Root canals, dentures, braces
Pros and Cons
Pros- Strong nationwide coverage
- Preventive care covered at 100%
- High deductibles on some plans
- Limitations in rural areas
4. Delta Dental
★★★★☆ 3.5 Deductible Range: $50-$100 Network Size: 154,000+ Visit ProviderOverview
Delta Dental offers plans in all 50 states and is one of the largest dental insurance providers in the country. They have extensive coverage with over 154,000 dentists in their networks. Plans come with no waiting periods, no pre-authorizations required, and no exclusions for preexisting conditions. Many plans include vision discounts as well. Monthly premiums average $30-60.Services
- Preventive and diagnostic care
- Basic dental treatments like fillings and extractions
- Major treatments like crowns, bridges, implants
- Orthodontic care (braces)
Pros and Cons
Pros- Large national network of dentists
- Covers children of immigrants
- Translation services available
- Limited plans may have waiting periods
- Out-of-network care can be expensive
5. Cigna
★★★★☆ 3.5 Deductible Range: $50-$100 Network Size: 154,000+ Visit ProviderOverview
Cigna dental plans are available in 38 states with an extensive network of over 91,000 dentists. They offer group and family plans making it easy to ensure the whole household is covered. Premiums range from $20-100 on average based on your selected plan and deductible amount. Most preventive services like cleanings and x-rays are fully covered.Services
- Cleanings, exams, x-rays
- Fillings, crowns, implants
- Orthodontics, dentures
- Oral surgery
Pros and Cons
Pros- International dentist locator tool
- Helps coordinate care when traveling overseas
- Limited network outside metropolitan areas
- Higher out-of-pocket costs
Best Dental Insurance for Immigrants Comparison
| Delta Dental | Blue Cross Blue Shield | Cigna | Guardian | Humana | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium Range | $30-60 | $20-75 | $20-100 | $22-55 | $13-$50 |
| Nationwide Coverage | Yes | No, 30 states | No, 38 states | Yes | No, most states |
| Number of Dentists | 154,000+ | 95,000+ | 91,000+ | Large networks | Not disclosed |
| Deductible Range | $50-$100 | $50-$150 | $0-$200 | $50-$100 | $50-$150 |
| Coverage % on Basic Services | 80-100% | 80-90% | 90-100% | 80-100% | 80-90% |
| Coverage % on Major Services | 50-80% | 50-70% | 50-70% | 50-80% | 40-65% |
| Orthodontics Discount | Yes, varies by plan | Yes, varies by plan | $800-$5,000 off braces | $750-$1,500 off braces | Not offered |
Final Thoughts
Finding affordable dental insurance for immigrants in the US can be challenging, but it is crucial for maintaining good oral health. The five dental insurance providers mentioned – Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Guardian, and Humana – offer a range of options with competitive premiums, extensive networks of dentists, and comprehensive coverage. By comparing these providers and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision and secure dental insurance that fits your budget and requirements. Remember, investing in dental insurance is an investment in your long-term oral and overall health.Learn More
- Best Car Insurance Providers For Immigrants
- Best 10 Credit Cards for Immigrants
- 7 Best Immigrant Friendly Mortgage Lenders
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a social security number to get dental insurance?
No, most dental insurance providers only require a tax ID number or ID card from your country of origin. Some may request a US-issued ID card if you have one.How can I find an insurance plan with dentists from my country/background?
Some plans like Delta Dental and Guardian have search tools to find dentists that speak your preferred language. Cigna offers translator services over the phone to help you communicate with dentists as needed.Is dental insurance expensive for immigrants?
Dental insurance can be very affordable for immigrants, with plans starting around $20 per month. More comprehensive plans with lower deductibles and better coverage may cost $75-100 monthly. Compare options to find the best rate.Can I get coverage for dental work I need done soon?
Yes, most dental insurance plans do not have waiting periods. Some procedures like tooth implants may have a 3-6 month waiting time before insurance will contribute coverage.Does dental insurance cover orthodontics like braces or Invisalign?
Some dental plans provide discounts on orthodontic treatments, lowering costs by hundreds or thousands of dollars. However, few plans provide full coverage on braces or Invisalign without significant out-of-pocket expenses. Shop plans carefully if you know you need orthodontic care.
Rohit Mittal
Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.