Aetna Dental Insurance Review For Seniors
Aetna is one of the biggest and most trusted dental insurance providers in the U.S. and is most known for its low monthly premiums and discounted dental plan offerings.
Aetna may offer great preventive care coverage and affordable premiums, but the lower annual maximums and waiting periods for major procedures might be a downside for anyone needing extensive dental work.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Aetna’s dental plan options
- Pricing details
- The pros and cons of their dental insurance
- Member support features
Additionally, we’ll compare Aetna with Ameritas Dental to see how they stack up and why Ameritas might deliver even greater value for your dental insurance needs.
Let’s dive into Aetna’s dental plan offerings to see what they bring to the table.
Aetna Dental Insurance: Plan Options
Aetna’s dental plans are designed to fit different needs and budgets. Whether you need basic care or more extensive dental work, these plans give you the freedom to visit any licensed dentist.
You can save even more if you stick with in-network providers.
Let’s walk through each plan.
#1. Aetna Dental Direct Preferred PPO
The Aetna Dental Direct Preferred PPO is for those who need a high level of coverage for both routine and significant dental procedures.
Many experience increased dental issues as they age, including gum disease, tooth decay, and the need for restorative work. This plan makes sure you get affordable, all-inclusive care while keeping out-of-pocket costs reasonable.
Coverage includes:
- Preventive Care: 100% coverage for routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays when using in-network providers.
- Basic Procedures: Coverage includes fillings and extractions, with members responsible for 20% of the cost after meeting a $50 deductible per person.
- Major Procedures: Services like crowns, bridges, and dentures are covered at 50% (after the deductible).
- Annual Maximum: Up to $1,250 in coverage for in-network services.
- Network Access: A large provider network of over 445,000 in-network dentists nationwide.
This plan is particularly beneficial for those who want predictable, structured costs for preventive and major dental work, are concerned about out-of-pocket expenses for restorative treatments, or prefer the flexibility of choosing their provider while benefiting from in-network savings.
#2. Aetna Dental Direct Core PPO
While some may not need extensive dental procedures, they still require essential services like cleanings, fillings, and occasional restorative work. The Dental Direct Core PPO plan provides cost-effective coverage for routine care while keeping premiums lower than the Preferred PPO.
Coverage includes:
- Preventive Care: 100% coverage for routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays (no deductible when using in-network providers).
- Basic Procedures: Members are responsible for 50% of the cost after a $50 deductible per person.
- Major Procedures: Covered at 50% after the deductible.
- Annual Maximum: Up to $1,000 for in-network services.
- Moderate Premiums: Offers a balance between affordability and comprehensive benefits.
Who Should Consider This Plan?
This plan is ideal for those who need standard dental care but don’t anticipate frequent major procedures and are looking for lower premiums while still having access to basic and major services.
#3. Aetna Dental Direct Preventive PPO
The Aetna Dental Direct Preventive PPO is best for those who prioritize preventive care and want to maintain their oral health without the financial burden of unnecessary coverage.
This plan offers an affordable solution focused solely on preventing future dental issues through regular exams and cleanings.
Coverage includes:
- Preventive Care: 100% coverage for exams, cleanings, and X-rays with no deductible.
- Annual Maximum Benefit: None.
- Low Monthly Premiums: The most budget-friendly option among Aetna’s dental plans.
Note: There is no coverage for basic or major procedures. This plan is strictly for preventive maintenance.
Who Should Consider This Plan?
This plan is perfect for seniors who prioritize regular dental check-ups over restorative treatments, want low-cost dental insurance without unnecessary coverage, or have healthy teeth and gums and do not require fillings, crowns, or extractions.
#4. Aetna Vital Savings Dental Discount Card
The Aetna Vital Savings Dental Discount Card was created for those who want to lower their dental costs without the financial commitment of traditional insurance.
Many individuals may not require extensive dental care but still need affordable access to routine treatments and discounts on major procedures.
This program provides instant savings without deductibles, waiting periods, or annual maximums.
Coverage includes:
- Instant Discounts: Save 15% to 50% on most dental services at participating providers.
- Extensive Network: Access to over 262,000 dental practice locations nationwide.
- Additional Discounts: Savings on vision care, hearing aids, and wellness services.
- No Waiting Periods: Members can start saving immediately upon enrollment.
Who Should Consider This Plan?
This discount card is ideal for those who want affordable dental care without committing to an insurance plan, prefer flexibility in choosing services and providers, or need immediate access to discounted dental services without waiting periods.
Note: The Aetna Vital Savings program is not available in Vermont or Montana.
Out-Of-Pocket Costs: Real Life Scenarios With Aetna
Aetna’s dental plans have different coverage options, premiums, and deductibles, giving you the flexibility to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Let’s look at the out-of-pocket costs associated with each plan.
Aetna Dental Direct Preferred PPO
This plan features a monthly premium of approximately $42.03 for a 60-year-old woman and $44.11 for a 65-year-old man. The annual deductible is $50 per person, though preventive care services are fully covered without requiring the deductible to be met.
With an annual maximum benefit of $1,250 for in-network services, this plan includes coverage for both preventive and restorative care.
Preventive care is covered at 100%, which includes routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays. Basic procedures, such as fillings and extractions, require the policyholder to pay 20% of the cost, while major procedures like crowns, bridges, and dentures require 50% cost-sharing after the deductible is met.
Aetna Dental Direct Core PPO
With a monthly premium of approximately $36.69 for a 60-year-old woman and $38.46 for a 65-year-old man, this plan is structured for individuals who need moderate coverage without the higher cost associated with more comprehensive plans.
The $50 annual deductible per person is in place, but preventive care services remain fully covered without requiring the deductible to be met.
This plan includes an annual maximum of $1,000 for in-network services, providing coverage for necessary procedures. Preventive care is covered at 100%, basic procedures are covered at 50% cost-sharing, and major procedures also require 50% cost-sharing after the deductible.
Aetna Dental Direct Preventive PPO
The monthly premium is $21.20 for both 60-year-old women and 65-year-old men, making it one of the most budget-friendly plans available. Unlike other plans, this option has no deductible.
This plan is designed specifically for those who do not anticipate needing restorative or major dental procedures. It does not cover basic services like fillings or extractions or major procedures such as crowns or dentures.
Instead, it focuses on 100% coverage for preventive care, including regular cleanings, exams, and X-rays.
Remember: There is no annual maximum for this plan.
Aetna Vital Savings Dental Discount Card
Unlike traditional insurance, this plan requires a nominal annual or monthly fee, which varies by location and provider. Instead of paying premiums for coverage, members receive instant discounts ranging from 15% to 50% on most dental services at participating providers.
The discount card also comes with extra perks, such as savings on vision care, hearing aids, and wellness services, making it a great way to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
There are no waiting periods or deductibles, allowing members to start saving immediately upon enrollment.
Which Plan Is Best for You?
The Dental Direct Preferred PPO is best suited for those needing comprehensive coverage, while the Core PPO offers a balanced mix of affordability and benefits.
The Preventive PPO is the most cost-effective solution for those who prioritize preventive care only, and the Vital Savings Dental Discount Card is an excellent alternative for those looking to save on dental expenses without committing to an insurance plan.
Does Aetna Offer DVH Plans?
Starting April 1st, 2025, Aetna is rolling out Dental, Vision, and Hearing Flex Insurance—bundled coverage made easier. Their affordable bundled plans help cover routine exams, fillings, eyeglasses, and hearing aids, with options for orthodontics and implants.
These plans come in three tiers:
| Coverage Type | Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Benefit | $1,000–$5,000 | $1,000–$4,000 | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Deductible | $0, $50, $100, or $100 vanishing | $0, $50, $100 | $100 |
| Dental: | |||
| Preventive Care | 100% from Day 1 | 100% from Day 1 | 100% from Day 1 |
| Basic Care | 70% Day 1 → 80% after 1 year | 60% → 75% | 50% → 70% |
| Major Care | 25% Day 1 → 50% after 1 year | 20% → 40% | 10% → 25% |
| Implants | $2,000 lifetime | $1,000 lifetime | Not covered |
| Whitening | $500/year | $250/year | Not covered |
| Orthodontics | 50% after 1 year, $1,500 lifetime | 50% after 1 year, $500 lifetime | Not covered |
| Vision: | 70% after 6 mo. → 80% after 1 yr ($250/2 yrs) | 50% → 70% ($200/2 yrs) | Not covered |
| Hearing: | 80% after 1 year ($500/year) | 70% ($250/year) | Not covered |
| Prior Coverage Credit | No | Yes | No |
Get coverage with guaranteed acceptance, open to anyone aged 18 to 89, and the flexibility to choose your own provider.
You can try it out with a 30-day free trial— and cancel anytime for a full refund.
Aetna Dental Insurance: Pros and Cons
Let’s summarize some pros and cons of Aetna’s dental plans.
-
Pros:
- Extensive Provider Network: Aetna boasts a vast network of over 445,000 in-network dental providers nationwide, offering members a wide selection of dentists and specialists.
- Comprehensive Preventive Care Coverage: Preventive services, including routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays, are covered at 100% with no deductible.
- Affordable Premiums: Aetna offers competitively priced plans, with options starting as low as $21 per month.
- No Referral Requirement: Members can visit any in-network specialist without needing a referral.
- Additional Benefits: Certain plans include extra perks, such as a free CVS ExtraCare Plus membership.
-
Cons:
- Waiting Periods for Basic and Major Services: Some plans impose waiting periods of up to six months for basic services and up to 12 months for major procedures.
- Annual Maximum Benefit Limits: Aetna’s plans have annual maximum benefit limits ranging from $1,000 to $1,250.
- Limited Availability in Certain Areas: While Aetna has a broad network, some regions may have limited provider options.
- No Coverage for Cosmetic Procedures: Services such as teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry procedures are typically not covered under Aetna’s dental insurance plans.
Aetna vs. Ameritas Dental Insurance
Ameritas is known for its accessibility and flexibility, especially with its PrimeStar® dental plans offering next-day benefits. This means members don’t have to wait to get the care they need – whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more involved procedure, they’re covered right away.
Plus, no enrollment fees make starting coverage easy without extra costs. With over 445,000 in-network providers nationwide, finding a dentist that works for you is hassle-free.
Ameritas has been a trusted name in insurance since 1887, and it has grown over the decades into a nationwide provider of insurance and financial services.
Today, Ameritas serves over 6 million customers nationwide and also offers products such as life insurance, annuities, disability income insurance, vision, and hearing care. This broad customer base reflects the trust policyholders place in Ameritas to deliver reliable coverage.
Ameritas offers three tiers of dental plans:
#1. PrimeStar® Lite ($25.83/month) – Covers 100% preventive care, 50-80% basic, and 10-20% major with a $750-$1,500 annual max.
#2. PrimeStar® Boost ($48.66/month) – Covers 100% preventive, 65-80% basic, 20-50% major, 15-50% child orthodontia, with a $1,500-$2,000 max.
#3. PrimeStar® Complete ($57.26/month) – Covers 100% preventive, 80-90% basic, 20-50% major, with a $2,500-$3,000 max, plus hearing benefits.
All plans have a $50 deductible and access to a large dental network.
Let’s compare the most important deal-breakers between Aetna and Ameritas.
Waiting Periods
One of the most crucial differences between Aetna and Ameritas is their waiting period policies. While Aetna offers comprehensive dental plans, it typically imposes waiting periods on various services. Preventive care is usually available immediately, but basic services often require a waiting period of up to six months and major services can be delayed for up to 12 months.
While Aetna does allow members to waive waiting periods if they have had prior dental coverage within the past 90 days, this added condition can be inconvenient for new enrollees.
On the other hand, Ameritas eliminates waiting periods altogether, ensuring that members can start utilizing benefits the day after enrollment.
This huge contrast makes Ameritas the preferred choice for individuals needing urgent dental care and not wanting to wait months for necessary procedures.
Annual Maximums
Another compelling feature of Ameritas is its increasing annual maximum benefits. In the first year, the maximum benefit is $1,000, but it gradually increases to $2,000 in the second year and beyond, rewarding long-term members with higher coverage limits.
In contrast, Aetna’s annual maximum benefits range from $1,000 to $1,250, and there is no built-in increase over time.
Customer Experience
Aetna’s customer service experience has received mixed reviews from members. Some policyholders praise the helpfulness and efficiency of Aetna’s support team, citing quick claims processing and a wide range of coverage options.
However, some members report frequent claim denials, communication difficulties, and long wait times when reaching customer support. One of the most common complaints involves policy cancellations and unexpected charges, which have led to frustration among members.
Despite these challenges, Aetna offers digital tools to improve the member experience. Their provider search tool lets users quickly locate in-network dentists, access patient reviews and ratings, and compare costs, making it easier for members to make informed decisions about their dental care.
Ameritas has consistently been recognized for its customer service quality, particularly its claims contact center, which has received the Benchmark Portal’s Center of Excellence award annually since 2006. This distinction reflects Ameritas’s commitment to efficient claims processing and superior customer support.
Ameritas provides multiple contact channels, including phone and email support, ensuring members can access assistance when needed.
However, one noted limitation is that 24/7 customer service is unavailable, which may be a drawback for policyholders who require immediate support outside standard business hours.
Final Verdict: Ameritas Wins
In summary, here’s a breakdown showing why we believe Ameritas is your best option out there:
| Category | Ameritas | Aetna |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maximums | Up to $5,000 | $1,250–$2,000 |
| Major Procedures Coverage | Stronger | Limited |
| Preventive Care | 100% Coverage | 100% Coverage |
| Monthly Premiums | Affordable | Lowest |
| Provider Network Size | Large | Smaller |
| Waiting Period for Major Services | 0-6 months | 12 months |
| Customer Satisfaction | High Ratings, Fewer Issues | Claim Denials and Billing Problems |
Bottom Line: Ameritas is #1
When it comes to dental insurance, Aetna and Ameritas are two top providers worth considering. They both offer large networks and comprehensive coverage designed to meet a variety of customer needs.
Aetna is widely recognized for its broad range of plans and a large network of over 445,000 providers, ensuring members have ample choices for their dental care needs. However, it typically imposes waiting periods of up to six months for basic services and 12 months for major procedures.
One of Ameritas’s most significant advantages is its no-waiting-period policy. Ameritas allows members to access preventive, basic, and major services immediately upon enrollment.
Ameritas also provides one of the most extensive provider networks in the industry, with approximately 557,000 access points.
While both companies have strong customer service reputations, member experiences vary. Aetna excels in digital tools and online resources, making it easy for members to find providers and compare costs. Ameritas has been recognized for superior claims processing efficiency.
Which Provider Is Right for You?
- Choose Aetna if you prioritize a wide selection of plans and structured coverage at competitive rates.
- Choose Ameritas if you want immediate access to dental services, increasing annual benefits, and an extensive provider network.
Need help comparing dental plans? Give us a call – we’re here to help!
Sources: Ameritas Dental | Aetna Dental
FAQs
- How much are dental implants?
- Does Aetna dental insurance cover crowns?
- What is a good dental insurance deductible?
- How can I pay my dentist without insurance?
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