Cigna Dental Insurance Review
Cigna offers various dental plans, such as Dental 1000, 1500, and 3000/100, with premiums starting at just $33 a month.
Cigna’s Dental Preventive plan is more budget-friendly if you’re looking for something more basic. It costs $19 monthly and covers routine check-ups like cleanings and standard X-rays for free.
Cigna also has bundled options that mix dental coverage with vision or both vision and hearing, with average monthly premiums beginning at $30.
Just keep in mind that some Cigna plans might not cover dental procedures like implants, and there are waiting periods of 6-12 months for basic and major services.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Cigna’s dental plan offerings
- Plan bundling options
- Pros and cons
- A better alternative (Ameritas)
We’re here to help you make an informed choice about dental insurance, so let’s first check out some highlights of Cigna.
Key Points:
- Cigna offers dental plans like Dental 1000, 1500, and 3000/100.
- Cigna’s network includes over 93,000 dentists and 297,000 office locations.
- Customer reviews are mixed on coverage for basic and major care.
I value Cigna as a reliable provider with one of the largest dental networks in the U.S. Their dental plan premiums are more affordable than many leading competitors, and they provide 100% coverage for preventive care.
However, members have reported negative experiences with their customer service and slow reimbursement times. Additionally, getting quotes from their website requires filling out a form, which can be inconvenient for those looking to compare prices quickly.
Cigna Dental: Plans Offered
Let’s break down Cigna’s various dental plans, including their coverage and premium details.
#1. Cigna Dental 1000 Plan
- $1,000 annual maximum
- $50 individual deductible ($150 for families) for basic and major care
- 100% coverage for preventive care services like routine check-ups, cleanings, and x-rays every six months
- Average premium is $33/month
The Cigna Dental 1000 is designed for those seeking basic coverage. Its average monthly premium is $33, and it includes free routine check-ups. It also includes a deductible of $50 for individuals and $150 for families on restorative services and offers up to $1,000 in coverage for treatments such as fillings and crowns.
No referrals are required, and members can access Cigna’s nationwide network. Plus, you get 24/7 customer service and the Brighter Score tool to help pick dentists.
The 1000 plan offers 80% coverage for basic services after a six-month waiting period and 50% coverage for major services following a 12-month waiting period.
However, dental implants are not covered; dentures are only covered at 50%. Orthodontic services and teeth whitening are also excluded from this plan.
#2. Cigna Dental 1500 Plan
The Cigna Dental 1500 Plan Provides Better Coverage With These Features:
- Higher annual maximum of $1,500
- Includes orthodontia, making it suitable for families with children or individuals needing more extensive dental work
- $50 individual deductible and a $150 family deductible for basic and major care
- Average premium is $39/month
The Cigna Dental 1500 plan offers comprehensive coverage that is ideal for families. Its average monthly premium is $39; routine check-ups (including cleanings and x-rays) are free.
The plan provides a $1,500 annual benefit applicable to both minor and major dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, and root canals, along with a $1,000 lifetime maximum for orthodontic services.
Like the Dental 1000, the 1500 plan offers no referral requirements, access to a nationwide network, 24/7 customer support, and useful online tools.
#3. The Cigna Dental 3000/100 Plan
The Cigna Dental 3000/100 Plan Offers Great Coverage With a Low Annual Deductible:
- Highest annual maximum of $3,000
- $100 deductible
- 100% coverage for preventative care
- Average premium is $32/month
The Cigna Dental 3000/100 plan is a solid option for those seeking a high annual maximum paired with a low monthly premium. It offers 100% coverage for preventive care and provides up to $3,000 in benefits that can be used for both minor and major dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, and root canals.
Basic services are covered at 50% after a six-month waiting period, while major services receive 50% coverage after a 12-month waiting period. Although implants are not included, dentures are covered at 50% following the waiting period.
Note that orthodontia and teeth whitening are not included in this plan.
Similar to the other plans we’ve reviewed, the Dental 3000/100 requires no referrals, gives access to a nationwide network, and offers 24/7 customer support and helpful online tools.
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Tight budget?
Cigna’s Dental Preventive plan provides budget-friendly coverage with monthly premiums starting at $19. This plan features $0 routine dental check-ups, including cleanings and routine X-rays.
There are no deductibles or maximums.
Cigna Bundled Plans: Dental + Vision + Hearing
Cigna’s bundled insurance plans combine dental, vision, and hearing coverage into one convenient package.
This comprehensive coverage includes preventive dental care, basic and major dental services, eye exams with glasses/contacts allowances, hearing exams with hearing aid discounts, low-cost copays for preventive care, and some plans with no waiting periods.
Bundled plans offer simplified billing, one premium for multiple coverages, and potential savings. They are ideal for seniors, families, or those seeking all-in-one insurance solutions.
Pricing varies based on location, coverage level, and age, but here’s a general idea of what you might expect:
| Bundle Type | Typical Monthly Cost |
| Dental + Vision | $30 – $50 |
| Dental + Vision + Hearing | $40 – $70+ |
Note: Prices may be lower for basic plans (preventive care only) or higher for comprehensive plans (including major dental work or higher eyewear allowances).
Cigna’s bundled plans are available in many states and can be purchased directly or through certain Medicare Advantage or employer-sponsored programs.
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Pro tip:
Bundled plans can often save you 10–25% compared to purchasing dental, vision, and hearing coverage separately. Plus, managing one plan is just easier.
Cigna Dental: Pros and Cons
After looking at Cigna’s dental insurance options, let’s go over what we think are the biggest pros and cons.
Pros of Cigna Dental Insurance
| Pros | Details |
| Stable provider | More than 18 million dental insurance members. |
| Wide network | Access to a large number of in-network dentists across the U.S, and sells plans in all 50 states. |
| Affordable options | Lower premiums than other leading competitors such as Ameritas or Delta Dental. |
| Orthodontic coverage options | Some plans (especially employer or family-focused) include braces or aligners. |
| Online tools | Easy claims tracking, provider search, and plan management through the myCigna portal and app. |
Cons of Cigna Dental Insurance
| Cons | Details |
| Waiting periods for major services | Some plans require a waiting period (e.g. 6–12 months for crowns, root canals). |
| Annual maximum limits | Most plans cap coverage at $1,000–$1,500 per year—out-of-pocket costs can add up for major dental work. |
| Not accepted by all dentists | While the network is large, not every provider accepts Cigna. |
| Limited coverage for cosmetic work | Teeth whitening, veneers, and implants are usually not covered. |
| Plan variety can be confusing | Multiple options and tiers may make it hard to pick the best one without guidance. |
Bottom Line: Cigna dental plans can be a solid choice if you’re looking for good preventive benefits and bundling options. Before signing up, be sure to review waiting periods, coverage limits, and your dentist’s network status.
An Alternative to Cigna Dental: Ameritas
If you’re tired of the restrictions that come with traditional providers like Cigna, Ameritas offers a better option with more freedom and less red tape.
While Cigna is a well-known name, Ameritas offers flexible, competitively priced plans with standout features like next-day coverage, no enrollment fees, and higher annual maximums.
Throughout the following sections, I’ll highlight why Ameritas stands out as the best choice for many people.
Ameritas Dental Insurance
Ameritas Overview:
Ameritas dental plans start at just $25 a month. Plus, coverage for basic and major procedures gets better after the first year.
They’ve got family plans, too, including orthodontic care for kids.
Their premium plan costs a bit more but comes with a $3,000 annual max and great coverage for preventive, basic, and major services.
Pros:
- Immediate Coverage and No Enrollment Fees – Many plans offer next-day coverage with no hidden fees.
- Lifetime Coverage Flexibility – Keep your policy through job changes, moves, or retirement. Cancel anytime.
- Vision Coverage Bundling – Option to add VSP or EyeMed vision coverage in most states.
- Expansive Provider Network – Large PPO network with strong out-of-network reimbursement options.
- Exceptional Customer Support – U.S.-based support centers with knowledgeable, non-outsourced reps.
- Dental Care Estimator Tool -Helps you estimate out-of-pocket costs before appointments for better budgeting.
Cons:
- Premiums May Be Slightly Higher – Higher monthly cost than some budget insurers—but with better coverage and value.
- Orthodontic Coverage Not Always Included – Not all plans cover braces or Invisalign; check plan details carefully.
- Higher Out-of-Network Costs Possible – While out-of-network is allowed, it may cost more if your provider isn’t in the network.
Ameritas: Dental Plans Offered
Let’s look at Ameritas’s dental plans and review the details of what each plan covers.
#1. PrimeStar® Lite Plan
PrimeStar Lite is the most affordable option, perfect if you want the basics. It covers 100% of preventive care, such as cleanings, exams, and x-rays, and 50% of basic services, such as fillings and simple extractions.
Monthly premiums are typically in the $20–$30 range.
Coverage includes:
- Annual Maximum: Up to $1,500/year after the first year
- Deductible: $50 (per benefit year)
- Preventive Services: 100% in-network, 70% out-of-network
- Basic Services: Starts at 50% in-network, increasing to 80% after year one
- Major Services: Starts at 10% in-network, increasing to 20% after year one
#2. PrimeStar® Boost Plan
This plan has better coverage and no waiting periods for preventive or basic services. It covers 80% of basic procedures and starts covering major services like crowns and oral surgery after 12 months—usually at 25–50%.
It’s a solid mix of affordability and value, with monthly premiums running around $48.
Coverage includes:
- Annual Maximum: Up to $2,000/year after the first year
- Deductible: $50 (per benefit year)
- Preventive Services: 100% in-network, 80% out-of-network
- Basic Services: Starts at 65% in-network, increasing to 80% after year one
- Major Services: Starts at 20% in-network, increasing to 50% after year one
- Child Orthodontia: 50% coverage
#3. PrimeStar® Complete
PrimeStar Complete is the most comprehensive plan. It includes 100% coverage for preventive care, 80% for basic, and 50% for major services (after a 12-month wait).
It even offers child orthodontic coverage in some states, which neither of the other plans does.
This plan is ideal for families or anyone who expects to need more than routine care. Monthly premiums typically start at $57.
Coverage includes:
- Annual Maximum: Up to $3,000/year after the first year
- Deductible: $50 (per benefit year)
- Preventive Services: 100% in-network, 90% out-of-network
- Basic Services: Starts at 80% in-network, increasing to 90% after year one
- Major Services: Starts at 20% in-network, increasing to 50% after year one
- Hearing Benefits: Coverage for exams and aids
Bundling Options
Ameritas Dental offers bundling options (like Cigna) with vision and sometimes hearing coverage, depending on the state and plan. Vision bundling, available in most states, includes benefits like eye exams, glasses, and discounts on LASIK through VSP or EyeMed.
Here’s a general breakdown of estimated monthly costs for bundling vision and hearing with an Ameritas dental plan:
- Dental + Vision ($35–$45)
- Dental + Hearing ($45–$60)
- Dental + Vision + Hearing ($50–$65, offering the best value with comprehensive coverage through PrimeStar Complete)
Note: Actual premiums vary by state, age, and zip code, but family plans often include discounts. Ameritas offers no enrollment fees and many plans with next-day coverage.
Cigna vs. Ameritas: A Detailed Comparison
Let’s compare Ameritas Dental and Cigna across key categories—like:
- Coverage options
- Provider network
- Premiums
- Customer experience
Coverage Options
Ameritas Dental has great PPO plans with no waiting periods on many services, high annual maximums (over $2,500), and extras like LASIK discounts and vision bundling.
Cigna Dental provides PPO and DHMO plans but may have waiting periods, lower annual maximums, and less flexibility with vision bundling.
Ameritas wins in this category with more generous coverage, fewer restrictions, and better discounts.
Provider Networks
Ameritas Dental offers extensive nationwide access with over 500,000 providers, competitive rates, and the flexibility to see any dentist, even out-of-network.
Cigna Dental has a large network (90,000+ dentists) but limited flexibility, as DHMO plans don’t cover out-of-network visits.
Ameritas wins again with more provider flexibility, a larger network, and better out-of-network options.
Cost and Value
Ameritas Dental offers affordable premiums, no waiting periods, high annual maximums, and strong value, including discounts on cosmetic procedures.
Cigna Dental provides competitive pricing on DHMO plans and some low-cost PPOs but may have waiting periods, lower annual maximums, and less value at higher tiers compared to Ameritas.
Dollar-for-dollar, you get more with Ameritas—especially if you plan to use your dental benefits.
Customer Experience
Ameritas Dental is praised for its excellent customer service, fast reimbursements, and user-friendly portal, which has high ratings from review sites. Cigna Dental offers good digital tools but faces mixed reviews due to billing and pre-approval issues, with slower, less personalized service.
Choose Ameritas if you want easier claims processing, more responsive support, and a smoother overall experience.
Our Thoughts: Why Ameritas Is Way Better
Ameritas consistently outperforms Cigna Dental in:
- Plan flexibility – fewer restrictions, no waiting periods.
- Network access – huge provider list and out-of-network benefits.
- Higher annual maximums – more benefits when you actually need care.
- Customer satisfaction – responsive, smooth experience.
- Extra perks – LASIK discounts, cosmetic procedure support, and vision bundles.
Ameritas Dental is ideal for individuals and families who want real value, fewer headaches, and access to quality care without limits. Cigna can work in some scenarios, but it often feels like you’re trading freedom for the price—and even then, you’re not saving much.
Bottom Line: Ameritas Wins
Cigna dental insurance is a decent option for folks looking for a basic preventive care plan without out-of-pocket expenses. Just remember that Cigna’s plans might not cover certain procedures, like implants, and there will be 6-12 month waiting periods for basic and major services.
If long waiting periods are a dealbreaker and you’re willing to pay a bit more for your premium, consider alternative dental providers like Ameritas or Humana.
Ameritas is a popular pick with over 11 million members and a huge network of dentists. One of the biggest perks is their no-waiting-period policy. With Ameritas, you can start using preventive, basic, and major services right away as soon as you enroll.
If you need help comparing dental plans, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!
Sources: Cigna Dental | Ameritas Dental | Delta Dental | Humana Dental
FAQs
- How much is a root canal without dental insurance?
- Does Original Medicare cover dental?
- Is Delta Dental better than Cigna dental?
- Does Ameritas dental have a deductible?
- How long does Cigna take to approve dental claims?
