With Delta Dental dental screening services, you can stay on top of your oral health while keeping out-of-pocket costs low. Routine screenings—including comprehensive exams, diagnostic X-rays, gum health checks, and oral cancer evaluations—are the cornerstone of preventive care. By understanding how these services are covered under different plan types, you’ll be able to choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
Delta Dental offers affordable individual dental plan options covering a wide range of services, from routine oral exams to complex procedures like bridges and dentures (Delta Dental of Ohio). In Charlotte and across North Carolina, preventive screenings can help you detect issues early, reducing the risk of costly treatments later on.
In this guide, you’ll explore what dental screening services include, how coverage varies across PPO, HMO, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans, and practical tips for maximizing your benefits. You’ll also learn how to find an in-network dentist and prepare for your next screening so you can smile with confidence.
Dental screening services overview
What screening services include
- Oral exam, a comprehensive check of teeth, gums, bite alignment, and soft tissues
- Periodontal screening, assessing gum health and signs of periodontal disease
- Diagnostic X-rays (bitewing, periapical) to spot cavities, bone loss, and hidden issues (insurance accepted for dental x-rays)
- Oral cancer screening, visual inspection for lesions or abnormalities
- Risk assessment and personalized prevention counseling
Why screenings matter
Regular dental screenings play a vital role in maintaining your smile and overall health. Early detection of decay, gum disease, and oral cancer often leads to simpler, more affordable treatment. Additionally, preventive visits reinforce healthy habits, from proper brushing techniques to nutrition guidance, so you’re better equipped to avoid common issues. In the long run, consistent screenings can save you time, discomfort, and money.
Coverage under PPO plans
Delta Dental PPO highlights
If you have a Delta Dental PPO plan, you enjoy the flexibility to visit any licensed dentist. However, choosing a network provider ensures your lowest out-of-pocket costs. Preventive services are typically covered at 100% when you see an in-network general dentist, without needing to meet a deductible first. Out-of-network care may be covered at a lower percentage, with any balance billed to you.
Covered preventive services
Under most PPO plans, you can expect coverage for:
- Two routine oral exams per benefit year
- Two professional cleanings (prophylaxis) per year (dental cleanings covered by delta dental)
- Bitewing X-rays once every 12 months
- Full-mouth X-rays every 36–60 months
- Periodontal screening annually
- Fluoride treatments for eligible children
- Sealants for children under age 16
| Service | In-network coverage | Out-of-network coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Oral exam & cleaning | No additional cost | Subject to coinsurance |
| Bitewing X-rays | Included with exam | Covered after deductible |
| Full-mouth X-rays | Per frequency schedule | Covered after deductible |
| Periodontal screening | Included annually | Covered after deductible |
Coverage under HMO plans
HMO plan features
DeltaCare USA, Delta Dental’s HMO option, offers lower monthly premiums and predictable copayments instead of coinsurance and deductibles. You’ll select or be assigned to an in-network primary dentist who coordinates all your care. There’s no paperwork for claims—your dentist submits them for you.
Typical copayment schedule
Copayments under HMO plans are modest and fixed. While exact amounts vary by plan, you might see:
- $10–$25 for routine oral exams
- $10–$30 for professional cleanings
- $10–$30 for bitewing or periapical X-rays
Copays for additional preventive services, such as periodontal screening or oral cancer evaluations, are generally low. Check your DeltaCare USA booklet for your specific schedule.
Coverage under Medicaid plans
Medicaid coverage basics
Medicaid coverage for dental screenings varies by state. In North Carolina, eligible children under age 21 receive preventive exams, cleanings, X-rays, and sealants under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit. Adult benefits may be more limited—often covering basic exams and cleanings without cost-share.
How to verify your benefits
- Log in to your Member Portal or call Delta Dental customer service at 800-524-0149 for benefit details
- Confirm covered services and frequency limits for screenings
- Ask your dentist’s office to verify eligibility before scheduling
Coverage under Medicare Advantage plans
Medicare Advantage benefits
Original Medicare does not include routine dental care, but many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer dental benefits through partnerships with networks like Delta Dental. Preventive services may be paired with comprehensive options, depending on your plan.
Comparing plan options
When evaluating Medicare Advantage dental benefits:
- Review the Summary of Benefits for frequency and service limits
- Look for plans that cover at least one exam and two cleanings per year
- Confirm inclusion of bitewing X-rays and oral cancer screening
- Check annual maximums and any copayment requirements
Selecting a plan with robust preventive coverage ensures you can maintain regular screenings without unexpected costs.
Maximizing your preventive benefits
- Verify coverage and frequency limits before your appointment
- Schedule screenings at six-month intervals to stay within benefit periods
- Combine visits for children and adults when possible to simplify scheduling
- Ask about sealants and fluoride treatments for younger family members (dental sealants covered by insurance)
- Request a pre-treatment estimate if you need additional diagnostic imaging
Overall, proactive planning helps you get the most from your Delta Dental plan.
Finding in-network dentists
Use the Delta Dental directory
Search by ZIP code or specialty on Delta Dental’s provider directory to locate an in-network general dentist near you (in-network general dentist delta dental). In-network care typically means no surprise fees and the highest coverage levels.
Ask for referrals
Friends, family, or coworkers in Charlotte can recommend reliable dentists. When you find a provider, confirm they participate in your specific Delta Dental plan before booking.
Preparing for your screening
What to bring
- Your insurance ID card and a photo ID
- A list of current medications and recent health changes
- Any referral or pre-authorization forms, if required
- Previous X-rays or treatment records, when available
What to expect
- A review of your medical and dental history
- A visual exam of teeth, gums, and soft tissues
- Diagnostic X-rays, if due
- Periodontal probing for gum health assessment
- Oral cancer screening and prevention advice
Your dentist will discuss findings and recommend follow-up care only if needed.
Next steps and resources
Ready to schedule your dental screening? Follow these steps:
- Find an in-network dentist using the Delta Dental directory
- Verify your plan’s preventive benefits in the Member Portal or by calling 800-524-0149
- Book your appointment for an exam, cleaning, and any recommended X-rays
- Use the Delta Dental Dental Care Cost Estimator tool to preview potential costs (Delta Dental)
- Explore ongoing resources for routine maintenance (routine dental care with delta dental)
By understanding your coverage and preparing accordingly, you’ll enjoy comprehensive oral health screenings with minimal hassle and cost. Take advantage of your Delta Dental benefits today and keep your smile healthy for years to come.