HMO and PPO dental insurance plans are the most common types of dental health insurance.   With an HMO plan you will have to pay your entire dental bill if you visit a dentist who is out of network. This is because there is no outside provider coverage and prices for dental services have only be negotiated with the plan providers.   

With a PPO plan, you can normally visit an out-of-network dentist, but you may have to pay a higher co-payment and you are at a high risk of UCR (Usual Customary and Reasonable) fees.  Because each dental insurance plan is different, it is essential to understand all the terms of your dental insurance plan prior to scheduling an appointment with a dentist. Be sure to talk to the dental office staff about your individual dental insurance so you will understand what care is covered and what is not.