When it comes to choosing dental insurance, Delta Dental and Willamette Dental are two big players in the market. But which one offers the best coverage and value for your money?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare and contrast Delta Dental and Willamette Dental side-by-side, looking at key factors like costs, coverage, and provider networks.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Delta Dental | Willamette Dental |
| Type of Plans Offered | PPO and HMO | HMO only |
| Monthly Premiums | Lower | Higher |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs | Higher coinsurance | Lower copays |
| Network Size | Very large (112,000+ dentists) | Small (50 dental offices) |
| Covered Services | Broad coverage | Broad coverage |
| Waiting Periods | Yes, often 6-12 months | No waiting periods |
| Customer Satisfaction | 4 out of 5 stars | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
| Flexibility | Can choose any dentist with PPO | Must go to Willamette Dental clinics |
| Costs | Higher overall, but depends on plan | Lower overall, but depends on plan |
Overview Of Delta Dental And Willamette Dental
Delta Dental is one of the largest dental insurance providers in the United States. It’s made up of a network of 39 independent Delta Dental member companies that provide coverage in all 50 states. Delta Dental offers both PPO and HMO plans. With a PPO, you can visit any licensed dentist but will pay less out-of-pocket when you choose an in-network provider. HMO plans require that you get care from a dentist within the DeltaCare USA network.
Willamette Dental, on the other hand, operates dental offices in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. When you enroll in a Willamette Dental plan, you agree to get care exclusively from Willamette Dental clinics and dentists. So it’s a closed-network HMO.
Also Read: Comparison Among Aetna, Delta, Guardian And Metlife.
Costs And Premiums
In general, Delta Dental plans tend to have lower monthly premiums compared to Willamette Dental. But Willamette Dental plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs.
For example, a Delta Dental PPO plan may charge a $30 monthly premium for an individual. But you’d likely pay a deductible of $50-100 before coverage kicks in, then 20% coinsurance for basic services and 50% for major procedures like crowns.
A Willamette Dental HMO could charge a higher $40 premium but only require a $15-$20 copay per visit for exams, cleanings, fillings, etc. Complex procedures may cost more out-of-pocket but are still generally cheaper than with Delta Dental’s coinsurance model.
When comparing costs, look closely at the plan details to get an accurate picture of how much you’d pay for the types of dental services you need. Run the numbers for your expected dental expenses.
Covered Services
The range of covered services is very similar between Delta Dental and Willamette Dental. Both provide coverage for:
- Preventive care like cleanings, exams, x-rays
- Basic services like fillings, simple tooth extractions
- Major services like crowns, bridges, dentures
- Orthodontics (typically for children and teens)
One key difference is that Delta Dental covers some implant procedures, whereas implants are only partially covered by Willamette Dental, if at all.
Also, Delta Dental PPO plans allow you to get care from specialty dentists like oral surgeons and endodontists without a referral. With Willamette, you’d need to get a referral first to see a specialist.
Also Read: Differences Between Humana Dental And Delta Dental.
Provider Network
Delta Dental offers by far the larger dentist network. With a PPO plan, you can choose from 112,000-plus dentists nationally. The DeltaCare USA network is smaller but still includes over 56,000 dentists in 15 states and D.C.
In contrast, Willamette Dental runs a limited network of over 50 dental offices across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. There are around 60 general dentists and 30 specialists within this closed network.
For the widest selection of dentists, Delta Dental is the clear winner. But Willamette Dental clinics offer the convenience of having many specialties under one roof.
Waiting Periods
Willamette Dental plans have no waiting periods – you can access coverage right away after enrolling.
With Delta Dental, waiting periods are common. For basic services, you may have to wait 1-3 months. For major services, waiting periods can stretch 6-12 months. Orthodontic coverage almost always has a 12-month waiting period.
So Willamette Dental allows faster access to coverage, while Delta Dental has longer wait times for benefits to kick in.
Customer Satisfaction
In terms of customer satisfaction, both Delta Dental and Willamette Dental receive mostly positive reviews. Delta Dental earns 4 out of 5 stars from customers on average, while Willamette Dental earns 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Positive feedback for Delta Dental includes large provider network, good claims processing, and competitive costs. Drawbacks mentioned include denial of claims and slow reimbursements.
Willamette Dental is praised for short wait times, friendly dentists, smooth visits, and affordable care. Criticisms include limited network, some outdated offices, and high turnover of dentists.
Both seem to satisfy most customers, but Willamette Dental holds a slight edge in patient satisfaction ratings.
Also Read: Comparison Between Delta Dental And Guardian Dental.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Willamette Dental does not accept Delta Dental insurance. Willamette Dental operates its own dental HMO plans, and patients must visit Willamette Dental clinics and dentists specifically. It is a closed-network system.
There is no one “best” dental insurance overall. It depends on your specific needs and priorities. Top dental insurance providers include Delta Dental, MetLife, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and more. Compare plans closely based on costs, coverage, and provider network access to choose the best dental insurance for your situation.
For a root canal, you’ll want dental insurance that provides comprehensive coverage for major services. Delta Dental and MetLife are two examples that offer strong major service coverage. Look for a plan that covers root canals with:
No or short waiting periods
Low deductible (e.g. $50 or less)
Good coinsurance rate (e.g. 50% coinsurance)
High annual maximum (e.g. $1500 or more)
Large network of endodontists
This will minimize your out-of-pocket cost for the root canal.
Willamette Dental offers the key advantage of no waiting periods for services – you can access coverage right after enrollment. Other top options with no or minimal waiting periods include Delta Dental PPO, UnitedHealthcare, MetLife, and Cigna. Humana and Aetna often have longer waiting periods.
Also watch this about Delta Dental!
Conclusion
So, all factors considered, is Delta Dental or Willamette Dental the better choice?
Here are some key takeaways:
- Delta Dental offers more flexibility but higher out-of-pocket costs.
- Willamette Dental provides lower costs but a very limited network.
- Delta Dental has longer waiting periods; Willamette Dental offers immediate coverage.
- Both earn good customer satisfaction overall.
In the end, choosing between Delta Dental and Willamette Dental depends on your priorities:
- If you want lower costs and no wait times, Willamette Dental may be the better option.
- If network choice is most important, then Delta Dental is likely the winner.
- Either can be a solid choice – just compare plans closely based on your dental needs.
Doing your homework on the fine print will ensure you select the right dental insurance to fit your situation. And no matter which you choose, remember to get regular dental checkups and cleanings to maintain your oral health!