California offers two main types of dental insurance plans: DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) and DPPO (Dental Preferred Provider Organization). DHMOs typically have lower premiums, no deductibles, and require you to use in-network dentists, while DPPOs offer greater provider choice, may cover some out-of-network costs, and often have deductibles and higher premiums.

Adults can purchase dental insurance as an add-on to their health plan. Children automatically receive dental coverage as part of every health plan sold through Covered California, but can also be added to a family dental plan if at least one adult is enrolled.

Most plans cover preventive services (exams, cleanings, x-rays) at 100%, basic services (fillings, extractions) at 60-80%, and major services (crowns, bridges, dentures) at 50% or less. Cosmetic procedures and some pre-existing conditions may not be covered.

Many plans have waiting periods for basic and major services, typically ranging from a few months up to a year. Preventive services often have no waiting period. Some DHMO plans may have no waiting periods at all.

Premiums for stand-alone dental plans in California range from about $9 to $54 per month for adults, depending on the plan type and coverage level. DHMO plans are generally less expensive than DPPO plans.

With DHMO plans, you must choose from a list of in-network dentists and are usually assigned to one office. DPPO plans offer more flexibility, allowing you to see any dentist, but you save more by staying in-network.

Deductible: The amount you pay before insurance starts covering services (often $0 for DHMOs, $50+ for DPPOs).
Copay: A fixed fee you pay for certain services (common in DHMOs).
Annual Maximum: The maximum amount a plan will pay per year for your care (applies to most DPPOs, not DHMOs).

Some plans include coverage for orthodontics and implants, often with limitations or higher copays. Check your plan’s specific benefits and exclusions.

Yes. Plans may exclude certain pre-existing conditions, cosmetic treatments, or have “missing tooth” clauses (no coverage for teeth lost before coverage began). Always review your plan’s exclusions and limitations.

You can enroll in a dental plan through Covered California during open enrollment (Nov 1–Jan 31) or after a qualifying life event, or buy directly from insurers year-round. For family dental plans through Covered California, you must also have a health plan through the exchange.

Premium subsidies (tax credits) apply only to medical plans, not to stand-alone dental plans.

Use your insurer’s online directory or “find a dentist” tool to locate in-network providers, which helps maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.