Navigating Dental Insurance Options at UCLA

Choosing the right dental insurance plan is an important decision for UCLA students, employees, and retirees. The University of California (UC) offers a variety of dental plans to meet the diverse needs of its community. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the dental insurance options available at UCLA, including UC SHIP, Delta Dental plans, and the UCLA Dental Clinics.

UC SHIP Dental Coverage for Students

For undergraduate and graduate students, dental coverage is included as a benefit within UC SHIP (UC Student Health Insurance Plan). UC SHIP offers access to dental care with the flexibility to choose any licensed dentist. However, utilizing Delta Dental PPO dentists can lead to lower out-of-pocket costs.

Finding a Delta Dental PPO Provider

To locate in-network dentists, follow these steps:

Navigate to the Find a Dentist section.
Enter your city (e.g., Los Angeles) or ZIP Code (e.g., 90095) in the Location field.
Select Delta Dental PPO from the Select Network? dropdown menu.
Type General Dentist in the Dentist, Practice or Keyword? field.
Click Search to generate a list of Delta Dental PPO dentists in your area.

UC SHIP members can receive regular cleanings and checkups with a Delta Dental PPO dentist at no cost.

Virtual Dentistry with Delta Dental

Delta Dental offers virtual dentistry services, providing UC SHIP members with convenient access to a dentist online. This service allows for quick checkups, answers to questions, second opinions, and other oral health needs between in-office visits.

UC SHIP Coverage and Costs

The following chart outlines the coverage details for UC SHIP's dental benefits:

Feature	Delta Dental PPO	Other Delta Dental Networks
Annual Deductibles	Preventive and diagnostic services: \$0; Other services: \$25 per person	Preventive and diagnostic services: \$0; Other services: \$50 per person
Annual Benefit Maximums	\$1,000 per member, not to exceed a cumulative maximum of \$1,000 each benefit year for network plus out-of-network dental benefits in total	\$750 per member, not to exceed a cumulative maximum of \$1,000 each benefit year for network plus out-of-network dental benefits in total
Fee Schedule	PPO providers agree to accept the Delta Dental PPO maximum allowed fee schedule.	You are responsible for the difference between the amount Delta Dental pays and the amount your out-of-network dentist bills.

Except for preventive care, a deductible applies to most services. After meeting the deductible, the plan pays a portion of the cost.

Dental Insurance Plans for UCLA Employees and Retirees

UC provides a comprehensive benefits package to its employees and retirees, including a choice between a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) or an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) dental plan. UC pays 100% of the monthly premium for employees and for retirees eligible for the full UC contribution.

Delta Dental PPO

The Delta Dental PPO plan is available worldwide, allowing you and your family to choose any licensed dentist or specialist.

DeltaCare USA (Dental HMO)

DeltaCare USA is a dental HMO that offers comprehensive benefits and requires referrals to specialists within the Delta Dental’s HMO network. Enrollment in DeltaCare USA is limited to California residents, and the availability of participating dentists may vary by location.

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UCLA Dental Clinics: Affordable and High-Quality Care

The UCLA Dental Clinics offer a comprehensive, high-quality, and affordable dental care option for students, employees, and the community. As a preeminent teaching institution, UCLA values patient participation in its dental education process.

Services and Locations

UCLA Dental Clinics offer services at three locations:

Westwood: The main clinic, located next to the dental school, houses the general clinic and multiple specialty clinics.
UCLA Health Medical Plaza: The Faculty Group Dental Practice is located here.
Venice: General clinics at this location provide a wide range of services by dental students.

Types of Providers

Patients can choose between different providers:

Student Dentists: Treatment by student dentists is supervised by experienced faculty. Appointments may be longer (up to three hours) due to the educational nature of the clinic.
Residents: For complex dental needs, patients may be referred to a residency clinic.
Faculty Members: The Faculty Group Dental Practice and other faculty practices offer care performed directly by faculty members.

Insurance and Payment Options

The UCLA Dental Clinics accept various insurance plans and payment methods:

Delta Dental: Accepted at all locations.
Delta Dental Premier: Accepted at some clinics.
Other PPO Dental Insurance: Patients may need to cover upfront costs and seek reimbursement.
Cash, Check, or Credit Card: Accepted for patients without dental insurance, with payment due at the time of service.
DentiCal: The Pediatric Dentistry Clinic in Westwood and Venice accepts DentiCal.
Access Dental: The Pediatric Dentistry Clinic at the UCLA Venice Dental Center accepts Access Dental.

HMO plans, including Delta PMI, are not accepted.

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Affordability

Due to the teaching clinic model, fees at the UCLA Dental Clinics are often more affordable compared to private dentists, while maintaining a high standard of care. It's recommended to compare costs and services to determine the best option.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic

The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic provides specialized care. A consultation may be required, potentially incurring a separate fee. For more information, contact the clinic at (310) 825-0834.

Pediatric Dentistry Clinic

UCLA offers pediatric dentistry services at two locations:

Westwood: Accepts DentiCal. Contact (310) 825-5619 for details.
Venice: Accepts DentiCal and Access Dental.

Additional Resources

Your Group Insurance Plans Booklet: Provides a summary of UC-sponsored benefit plans, including plan options, coverage, and enrollment information.
UCLA Health Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO): A Medicare plan available to those with Medicare Parts A and B residing in Los Angeles County. Contact Member Services at 1-833-627-8252 (833-MAP-UCLA) (TTY 711) for more information.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Plan

Network: Determine whether your preferred dentist is in-network with the plan.
Costs: Compare premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and annual maximums.
Coverage: Review the types of services covered and any limitations or exclusions.
Location: Consider the proximity of dental clinics or in-network dentists to your home or work.
Referrals: Understand the referral process for specialists, especially with HMO plans.

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