Best Dental Insurance Plans North Carolina
Best Dental Insurance Plans in North Carolina: 2025 Comparison
North Carolina residents have a wide selection of dental insurance options, from affordable basic coverage to comprehensive plans that include major services and orthodontics. Here’s a detailed overview of the top providers, plan features, and what to consider when choosing dental insurance in North Carolina.
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- No waiting periods on most preventive care
- Flexible plan options for individuals & families
- Instant online enrollment
- Nationwide provider networks
| Provider | Plan Types | Monthly Premium Range | Annual Maximum | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Dental NC | PPO | $27–$46 | $1,000 | Largest NC network, no waiting for preventive, 100% preventive, tiered basic/major coverage |
| Blue Cross NC | PPO | $30–$50 (typical) | $1,000–$1,500 | Large network, no waiting for preventive, flexible dentist choice, 2 cleanings/year |
| EMI Health | PPO, Copay | Varies | $500–$1,000 | Multiple plan options, orthodontics for kids (medically necessary), no waiting for preventive |
| Ameritas | PPO | From $25 | Up to $2,000 | Orthodontic coverage, carryover max, vision add-on available |
| Physicians Mutual | PPO | From $25 | Not listed | $0 deductible, broad coverage, fast online quotes |
| Guardian Direct | PPO | From $25 | Not listed | Good for new residents, robust provider search tool |
| Careington | Discount Plan | From $9 | No max | Immediate coverage, large network, not insurance but savings plan |
| Plan Name | Premium (Individual) | Deductible | Annual Max | Preventive | Basic | Major | Ortho | Waiting Periods |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Dental Plan A | $45.56 | $50 | $1,000 | 100% | 80% | 50% | No | 6–12 months (basic/major) |
| Delta Dental Plan B | $26.76 | $50 | $1,000 | 100% | 50–70% | None | No | 6–12 months (basic) |
| Blue Cross NC Value 1500 | ~$40–$50 | $75 | $1,500 | 100% | 60% | 50% | No | 6 mo (basic), 12 mo (major) |
| EMI Premier PPO High | Varies | $25 | $1,000 | 100% | 80% | 50% | Yes (med. necessary) | 6–15 mo (basic/major) |
| Ameritas (Ortho plan) | ~$37 | Varies | Up to $2,000 | 100% | 80% | 50% | Yes | Varies |
| Physicians Mutual | From $25 | $0 | Not listed | 100% | 80–100% | 50–80% | No | Varies |
Key Coverage Features
Preventive Care: Most plans cover exams, cleanings, and X-rays at 100% with no waiting period.
Basic Services: Fillings, extractions, and some root canals are typically covered at 50–80% after a short waiting period.
Major Services: Crowns, bridges, and dentures are covered at 25–50% after a longer waiting period.
Orthodontics: Only select plans, such as EMI Health and Ameritas, offer orthodontic coverage—usually for children and only if medically necessary.
Annual Maximums: Most plans cap annual benefits at $1,000–$1,500, though some allow carryover or higher limits.
Networks: Delta Dental and Blue Cross NC have the largest provider networks in the state, making it easier to find in-network dentists.
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💸 Dental Insurance Costs in North Carolina
Monthly Premiums: Range from $10–$60/month
Deductibles: $0–$100 depending on plan
Annual Maximums: $1,000–$2,500+
Waiting Periods:
Preventive: Often none
Basic: 0–6 months
Major: Up to 12 months (varies by provider)
📋 Types of Dental Plans Available in NC
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Most flexible, broadest networks
HMO (Prepaid): Lower premiums and fixed copays, but limited network
Discount Plans: Not insurance, but offer reduced rates at participating providers
Indemnity Plans: Use any dentist, pay upfront and get reimbursed
👶 ACA-Compliant Pediatric Dental Coverage
Required for children under 19 on the NC Marketplace
Capped out-of-pocket costs ($400 per child or $800 per family in 2024)
Covers medically necessary services with no annual cap
✅ How to Choose the Best Dental Plan in NC
Check Network Size: Make sure your dentist is in-network
Know What’s Covered: Review what’s included in preventive, basic, and major services
Review Waiting Periods: Consider how soon you’ll need care
Compare Annual Maximums: Higher max = more value if you expect major work
Understand Premium vs. Out-of-Pocket Tradeoffs
📝 Final Thoughts
North Carolina residents have access to a wide variety of dental insurance plans that balance cost, convenience, and comprehensive care. Whether you’re shopping for a family plan with orthodontic coverage or a low-cost option for preventive cleanings, insurers like Delta Dental, Cigna, Humana, and Ameritas provide strong choices for 2025.
For help selecting the right plan, talk to a licensed agent or get quotes online from multiple providers.
Best Dental Insurance Plans in North Carolina – FAQs
How much does dental insurance cost in North Carolina?
Which companies offer dental insurance through North Carolina’s Marketplace?
Are pediatric dental plans on the exchange ACA-compliant?
Can I buy dental insurance outside of the exchange?
What does dental insurance typically cover?
How do waiting periods work?
Is orthodontic care covered?
Can I see any dentist?
How do I enroll in a dental plan?
How do I file a claim?
Can I get dental coverage for just my child?
Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: [email protected]
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Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent