Humana Dental Insurance Review

Humana provides dental plans with monthly premiums ranging from $18 to $44.

These plans include:

• #1 Preventive Value: most budget-friendly
• #2. Complete Value: most comprehensive
• #3. Loyalty Plus: long-term rewards 

Humana’s Preventive Value plan is a great option if you’re looking for coverage mainly for routine preventive care without expecting major dental procedures. It covers 100% of essential services like cleanings, exams, and X-rays.

However, keep in mind that Humana’s higher-tier plans often have waiting periods, which can be a deal-breaker for some.

To get a clear picture of Humana’s dental plans, I’ll compare them to those from Delta Dental, another well-known dental insurance provider. I’ll look at things like coverage, cost, and waiting periods to see how they stack up.

I’ll also introduce what I believe to be the best dental insurance provider out there – Ameritas Dental.

Let’s start by digging into more details about Humana’s dental insurance offerings.

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Pros:

• A vast network of over 335,000 dentists and specialists.
• Plans with low monthly premiums and some with no deductibles or waiting periods.
• Most plans cover 100% of preventive care like exams, cleanings, and X-rays.
• Some plans include extras like discounts on vision care, prescriptions, or hearing aids.

Cons:

• Some lower-tier plans offer minimal or no coverage for major services like crowns, bridges, or dentures.
• Many plans have waiting periods for basic and major services (e.g., 6 to 12 months).
• Most plans have low annual maximums, often around $1,000–$1,500, which likely will not cover extensive dental work.

Our Opinion:

If you called our agents and asked us about Humana’s dental insurance options, we’d tell you that Humana offers a decent range of dental plan options and comprehensive coverage, including 100% preventive care with most plans.

One major advantage of choosing a Humana dental insurance plan is access to a network of over 335,000 dentists and specialists.

However, we’d also make you aware that some plans have waiting periods, limited orthodontic coverage, and varying benefits by state – these are some serious drawbacks that should be considered before enrolling.

Comparing Humana Dental Plans

Humana offers various dental plans, including Preventive Value, Complete Value, and Loyalty Plus.

#1. Preventive Value Plan – $18/Month

The Preventive Value plan is a budget-friendly option for those seeking coverage for routine dental care and preventive services. 

It ensures 100% coverage for essential preventive services such as cleanings, exams, and x-rays, encouraging regular dental visits and early detection of potential issues.

For those requiring more than preventive care, the plan offers 50% coverage for essential services like fillings and extractions, providing a safety net without significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Additionally, the Preventive Value plan features a lifetime deductible of only $50 for individuals and $150 for families, making it an attractive option for maintaining dental health without financial strain.

#2. Complete Dental Plan – $28/Month

Humana’s most comprehensive dental coverage is the Complete Dental plan. This plan includes an annual maximum of $1,250 in the first year, increasing to $1,500 in the second year.

The Complete Dental plan includes the following:

100% coverage for preventive services includes routine exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and limited evaluations with no waiting period. In-network is fully covered with no deductible (some limits apply).

Basic care services are covered at 80%, with a 6-month waiting period, which may be waived with prior coverage. This includes emergency care, one filling per tooth every two years, space maintainers for children under 14, and prefabricated stainless steel crowns. 

Major dental services are covered in-network at 50% after the deductibled, and have a 12-month waiting period. Included are oral surgery (1 root canal per tooth per lifetime), dentures (once per 5 years), and crowns/onlays/inlays (1 per tooth per 5 years). No waiting period applies to periodontal maintenance (2 per year) and scaling/root planing (1 per quadrant every 3 years). 

#3. Loyalty Plus Plan – $44/Month

The Loyalty Plus plan is designed to reward long-term customers with increasing benefits over time. This plan stands out with its increasing annual maximum benefit, which grows the longer you stay enrolled.

Key features of the Loyalty Plus plan include:

• Your annual benefit maximum increases over three years: $1,000 in the first year, $1,250 in the second year, and $1,500 in the third year onward.
• Offers immediate access to dental care with no waiting periods for services.

Basic dental services cover fillings, extractions, and X-rays up to the annual benefit maximum. Coverage increases over time: 40% in the 1st year, 55% in the 2nd year, and 70% from the 3rd year onward.

Major dental services coverage includes root canals, crowns, and dentures, with benefits up to the annual maximum: 20% coverage in the first year, 30% coverage in the second year, and 50% coverage in the third year onward.

The Loyalty Plus plan is a unique option that gives long-term members extra perks and coverage, ensuring that dental care grows with their needs over time.

Network Size and Accessibility

One big perk of going with Humana is access to a huge network of over 335,000 dentists and specialists. With so many options, finding an in-network provider that’s convenient for you is easier and could save you money, too.

You may still receive coverage if your current dentist is not part of Humana’s network, but you may have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs.

So, your preferred dentist’s network affiliation should be considered when selecting your dental insurance.

Can I Bundle My Humana Dental Plan With Vision?

Yes, you can bundle your Humana dental insurance with vision coverage—it’s a popular option for people and families looking for easy, all-in-one coverage.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s included and typical costs.

Vision Coverage Benefits:

• Annual eye exams: Fully covered or available with a small copay (usually $10–$15).
• Frame or contact lens allowance: Receive an annual benefit of $100–$150.
• Lens enhancement discounts: Save on upgrades like anti-glare, scratch resistance, and progressive lenses.
• Extensive provider network: Access trusted names like LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, and independent optometrists.

Pricing for these bundling options varies based on your location, age, and coverage tier, but here are general estimates:

Plan Type	Monthly Premium (Approx.)
Individual	$30 – $60/month
Couple	$60 – $100/month
Family	$90 – $150/month

Next, let’s look at another popular provider in the dental insurance market – Delta Dental.

Delta Dental: A Possible Alternative

Delta Dental has a range of dental insurance plans to fit different needs and budgets, including PPO, HMO (DeltaCare® USA), and fee-for-service options.

Their PPO plans are the most flexible—you can visit any licensed dentist, but you’ll save the most by sticking with in-network providers.

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Delta Dental Overview

Delta Dental’s plans typically cover 100% of preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays), about 70–80% of basic services (like fillings), and 50% of major services (like crowns or dentures).

Monthly premiums usually range from $20 to $60, depending on your coverage level and location, and annual maximums are generally between $1,000 and $2,000.

With Delta Dental, members typically have access to two preventive sessions annually, including routine cleanings and checkups, without waiting periods. Waiting periods for basic and major services are usually 6 to 12 months.

Pros:

• Huge Network of Dentists: One of the largest dental networks in the U.S., giving you plenty of options.
• Great Preventive Care: Most plans cover 100% of cleanings, exams, and X-rays.
• Flexible Plan Choices: Choose from PPO, HMO (DeltaCare® USA), or fee-for-service plans.
• Trusted Name: A well-known company with a solid reputation.

Cons:

• Waiting Periods: Most plans have a 6–12 month wait for basic and major dental services.
• Annual Maximums: Many plans cap yearly benefits at $1,000–$2,000, which might not cover big dental procedures.
• Higher Costs for Out-of-Network: Care PPO plans let you visit out-of-network dentists, but it’ll cost more.
• Limited Flexibility in HMO Plans: DeltaCare® USA requires you to pick a primary dentist and get referrals for specialists.

Comparing Humana vs. Delta Dental Plans

Both Humana and Delta Dental offer a variety of plans with different coverage levels, costs, and provider networks. It’s worth comparing these options since not all dental plans are the same—what works great for one person might not be the best fit for another.

Taking a closer look at each company’s offerings can help you make a smarter choice that fits your dental needs and budget.

Let’s start by comparing each provider’s most basic dental plan.

Humana Preventative Value Plan vs. Delta Dental Basic Plan

• Humana Preventive Value:

  Coverage:

  • 100% coverage for preventive services such as cleanings, exams, and x-rays.
  • 50% coverage for essential services like fillings and extractions.

  Annual Maximums:

  • There is no annual maximum for preventive services.

  Deductibles:

  • $50 for individuals and $150 for families (lifetime deductible).

  Waiting Period:

  • No waiting periods.

• Delta Dental Basic:

  Coverage:

  • 100% coverage for preventive care.
  • 80% coverage for basic services after a 6-month waiting period.

  Annual Maximums:

  • Typically, around $1,000 per year.

  Deductibles:

  • It is often $50 per person, but family deductibles may vary.

  Waiting Period:

  • 6 months.

Winner: Humana

If you’re looking at lower-cost plans, Humana’s Preventive Value plan is a standout thanks to two big perks: no waiting periods and no annual maximum for preventive services.

Next, let’s compare the two’s highest-tiered dental plans.

Humana Complete Dental Plan vs. Delta Dental Premier Plan

• Humana Complete:

  Coverage:

  • 100% coverage for preventive services.
  • 80% coverage for essential services after a 6-month waiting period.
  • 50% coverage for major services after a 12-month waiting period.

  Annual Maximums:

  • $1,250 in the first year, increasing to $1,500 in the second year.

  Deductibles:

  • $50 for individuals and $150 for families (annual deductible).

  Waiting Periods:

  • 6 months for essential services and 12 months for major services.

• Delta Dental Premier:

  Coverage:

  • 100% coverage for preventive care.
  • 80% coverage for basic services and 50% for major services after a 6-month waiting period.
  • Includes coverage for more complex procedures like crowns and root canals.

  Annual Maximums:

  • $2,000.

  Deductibles:

  • $50 per person, $150 for family.

  Waiting Period:

  • 6-12 months.

Winner: Delta Dental

While both companies have similar waiting periods, Delta Dental’s Premier Plan gives you great coverage with a $2,000 annual maximum, which is higher compared to Humana.

In a nutshell:

Human and Delta Dental are both decent options for individuals and families looking for reliable dental coverage. Delta Dental stands out with its large provider network and strong preventive care coverage, while Humana offers flexible plans and affordable pricing.

That said, when it comes to overall value, coverage, and customer satisfaction, Ameritas really takes the lead. With higher annual maximums, no waiting periods on many plans, and a solid reputation for great service, Ameritas offers a well-rounded dental insurance experience that’s tough to beat.

In this next section, I’ll explain why we believe Ameritas should be your #1 choice for dental insurance.

Is There a Better Dental Provider Then Humana?

Humana may be a well-known and trusted name in health insurance. With its large provider network and multiple coverage options, it’s easy to see why so many people consider Humana when looking for dental insurance.

But being popular doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best value.

In the next section, we’ll compare Ameritas and explain why, in terms of coverage, cost, and customer satisfaction, Ameritas is the better choice for dental insurance.

Ameritas Dental Insurance Overview

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Ameritas Overview

Ameritas offers three dental insurance plans:

#1. PrimeStar® Lite ($25/month): Budget-friendly with 100% preventive care coverage and increasing benefits for basic and major procedures over time.

#2. PrimeStar® Boost ($48/month): Ideal for families, it includes orthodontic care for kids, teeth whitening, and up to $2,000 annual maximum after the first year.

#3. PrimeStar® Complete ($57/month): Comprehensive coverage with a $3,000 annual maximum, hearing care, and high percentages for basic and major procedures after year one.

Each plan includes a $50 deductible and increasing benefits after the first year.

Pros:

• No Waiting Period Options: Many plans offer immediate coverage for preventive, basic, and major services.
• High Annual Maximums: Plans with benefit limits up to $3,000.
• Large Nationwide Network Access: Thousands of in-network providers across the U.S.
• Coverage for Major Services: Includes crowns, bridges, and root canals on select plans.
• Orthodontic Coverage: Some plans offer benefits for kids and adults.
• Transparent Pricing: Clear benefits and competitive premiums.
• No Enrollment Fees: Ameritas doesn’t charge extra to sign up.

Cons:

• Out-of-Network Costs Are Higher: You’ll save more by staying in-network.
• Too Many Plans Can Be Confusing: Choosing a plan can be tricky without help.

Comparing Humana vs. Ameritas Dental Plans

The pros of Ameritas dental insurance definitely outweigh the cons. With no waiting periods on many plans, high annual maximums, and solid coverage for both basic and major services—like orthodontics—Ameritas offers great value and flexibility.

Add in a large provider network and straightforward pricing, and getting the care you need becomes much simpler.

Now that we’ve covered why Ameritas stands out let’s see how it stacks up against Humana.

Ameritas vs. Humana Dental Insurance Comparison

Feature	Ameritas Dental	Humana Dental
Waiting Periods	No waiting periods	Many plans have 6–12 month waits for basic/major services
Preventive Care Coverage	100%	100%
Basic and Major Services	Broad coverage, even on entry-level plans	Available, but some lower-tier plans offer limited coverage
Orthodontic Coverage	Available for adults and children on select plans	Rare or not available on most individual plans
Annual Maximums	Up to $2,000+ on many plans	Often capped around $1,000–$1,500
Provider Network	Large national network	Large national network
Ease of Enrollment and Pricing	Competitive premiums, no enrollment fees	Affordable premiums
Bundling with Vision/Other Policies	Not typically offered	Can bundle with vision

Winner: Ameritas

While Humana may have the edge when it comes to bundling options, that advantage doesn’t necessarily outweigh the overall value of Ameritas.

When you zoom in on what really matters in a dental plan—coverage depth, flexibility, annual maximums, and waiting periods—Ameritas consistently comes out ahead.

Bottom Line: Ameritas is #1

We think Humana’s Preventive Value plan is a good pick if you don’t anticipate any major dental procedures and need coverage for routine preventative care. It has a low $18 monthly premium and covers 100% of essential services like cleanings, exams, and x-rays.

Just keep in mind that Humana’s higher-tiered plans often include waiting periods, which might not work for everyone.

Humana and Delta Dental are both decent choices with solid coverage options, and they may work well for certain needs or situations. However, based on our experience comparing plans, pricing, and benefits, Ameritas stands out as the ultimate winner.

With its generous coverage, flexible plan options, and overall value, it consistently delivers more of what people actually want from dental insurance.

Let us know if you need help comparing dental plans – we’re here to make the process simple and straightforward!

Sources:  Delta Dental  |  Humana Dental |  Ameritas Dental

FAQs

• How do I enroll in an Ameritas dental plan?

  To enroll in an Ameritas dental plan, you can visit their official website or use one of our licensed insurance brokers. Coverage typically begins the following month, depending on your enrollment date.

• How can I manage my Humana dental insurance?

  You can manage your Humana Dental Insurance through the MyHumana mobile app where you can access plan information, manage account details, and file claims for dental services according to the provider’s guidelines.

• What is the downside of Humana?

  One potential downside of Humana’s dental insurance is that some plans may have waiting periods for certain services, making it difficult to receive immediate care. Additionally, the coverage and benefits may vary by state, so it is essential to thoroughly review plan details before enrolling.

• Does Humana's dental insurance provide emergency care coverage?

  Yes, Humana’s dental insurance provides emergency care coverage for sudden dental needs and accidents, with certain limitations.

• How much is a tooth extraction without insurance?

  Tooth extraction costs without insurance vary based on the type: simple extractions range from $75 to $300 per tooth, while surgical extractions cost $200 to $600 or more. Additional expenses like X-rays and anesthesia can add $100 to $300+.