Aetna dental plans come in two main forms: PPO plans that cover in-network and out-of-network dentists, and the Aetna Dental Maintenance Organization (DMO), which works like an HMO. Aetna also sells individual plans under the Aetna Dental Direct name.
Check whether your plan is a PPO or a DMO. DMO members must choose a primary care dentist; PPO members can see any dentist but pay less in network.
Representative dental illustration from the Family Dentistry Clinic image library.This guide explains how common dental plan types and networks work. Benefits, networks and costs differ from plan to plan and change over time. Family Dentistry Clinic is an independent directory and is not affiliated with any insurer. Confirm coverage with your plan and the dental office before treatment.
| Plan or network | How it works | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Aetna Dental PPO | Use any dentist. In-network dentists accept negotiated fees; out-of-network care is paid based on Aetna’s recognized charges and you may owe the balance. | Your deductible, annual maximum and the coinsurance for basic and major care. |
| Aetna DMO | Choose a primary care dentist in the network to coordinate your care and referrals. Out-of-network care is generally not covered, except where state law requires. | That the dentist is a DMO participant — a PPO-only dentist is not covered under the DMO. |
| Aetna Dental Direct (individual plans) | Plans bought directly by individuals and families, including PPO options and a DMO option. Available plans and prices vary by area. | Waiting periods for basic and major care, and whether prior coverage can waive them. |
Representative imageUse Aetna’s online provider directory and choose the plan type that matches your card. Employers often advise DMO members to call the office directly to verify DMO participation.
Ask the office to confirm both the network and the specific dentist, since participation can differ between dentists in the same practice.
Write down the name of the person you spoke to and the date. Coverage questions are easier to resolve later when you have a record.
These clinics in our directory list this plan in the sources we checked. Plan participation changes, so confirm your specific plan and network with the office.
Don’t see a clinic near you? Browse the clinic directory and ask each office about your plan.
Some employer plans allow it; others do not. Check your plan documents or ask your benefits administrator.
DMO plans commonly have no annual dollar maximum and use set copays instead, but check your plan summary.
Aetna shows the individual plans and prices available for your area, which can differ by state.
We checked carrier, government and employer plan documents listed below. Plan names and networks can change, and individual plans vary.
Family Dentistry Clinic is an informational directory and does not sell insurance or provide dental treatment. See our editorial policy and medical disclaimer.
Use the clinic directory to find practices near you, then call to confirm they participate in your plan’s network. Compare typical fees in our dental cost guide.
