If you’re exploring how dental screening covered by Cigna insurance works, you’re in the right place. In Charlotte, families and individuals can access routine exams, cleanings, x-rays, and more with minimal out-of-pocket costs. Whether you’re scheduling your child’s first dental checkup or planning your own semiannual exam, understanding preventive benefits and plan specifics ensures you make the most of your coverage.
In this guide you’ll learn how Cigna’s dental plans handle screenings, how coverage varies by plan type—including DHMO, PPO, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and employer-sponsored—and what steps to take to maximize your benefits, find in-network providers, and plan for any extra costs.
Understand preventive services
Dental screenings fall under preventive services, a category designed to catch problems early and maintain oral health. Under most Cigna plans, preventive benefits include:
- Comprehensive oral exams
- Routine cleanings and screenings
- Diagnostic x-rays (bitewing, panoramic)
- Oral cancer exams
- Periodontal (gum) health checks
Not all preventive services are covered at the same frequency. Frequency limitations apply, so you may be eligible for two cleanings or screenings per calendar year (Cigna).
What counts as a screening
A dental screening typically includes an oral exam and may involve:
- Checking teeth for decay and structural issues
- Evaluating gum health and bite alignment
- Reviewing soft tissues for signs of cancer or disease
Coverage details
Under most plans, preventive services are covered at 100% when you stay in-network. You’ll generally pay nothing for covered screenings and cleanings if your provider accepts Cigna.
Frequency and limitations
- Exams and cleanings: usually covered twice per year
- Bitewing x-rays: often covered once per year
- Panoramic x-rays: covered every two to three years
Always confirm the specifics of your plan before scheduling, since coverage can vary by state and policy.
Compare plan type coverage
Coverage for dental screenings can differ significantly depending on your plan type. The table below summarizes how various insurance options handle preventive exams and basic diagnostics:
| Plan type | Preventive screening coverage | Frequency | Cost to you |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna DHMO | 100% covered | 2 exams/year | $0 deductible, no coinsurance, no annual max1 |
| Cigna PPO | 100% covered2 | 2 exams/year | Subject to deductible, then covered at 100% |
| Medicaid (state plan) | 100% covered | Varies by state | $0 |
| Medicare Advantage | Varies (add-on dental) | Depends on plan | Depends on premium and coinsurance |
| Employer-sponsored plan | Varies | Varies | Depends on employer plan |
1 The Cigna Dental Care (DHMO) plan features no waiting periods, no annual dollar maximums, and no claim forms (Cigna).
2 Under Cigna PPO, preventive care is covered at 100% after you meet your annual deductible.
Cigna DHMO
- No waiting periods or annual maximums
- No deductibles or coinsurance on preventive services
- Ideal for those who prefer predictable costs and comprehensive preventive care
Cigna PPO
- Greater provider choice, including specialists
- Preventive services covered at 100% after deductible
- Deductible and annual maximum apply to other services
Medicaid
Most state Medicaid programs cover preventive screenings at no cost. Frequency limits vary, so check your state’s dental benefits.
Medicare Advantage
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental, preventive screenings may be covered. Because dental is an add-on to medical benefits, coverage levels and network requirements differ by plan.
Employer-sponsored plans
Employer plans often mirror PPO or HMO structures. Review your benefits summary for preventive coverage details, including deductibles, coinsurance, and annual maximums.
For comparisons on other carriers, see our posts on preventative dental services with Aetna and routine dental care with Delta Dental.
Choose in-network providers
To ensure screenings and exams are covered at 100%, always visit an in-network dentist. Cigna’s network includes thousands of general and specialty dental practices across Charlotte and beyond.
Find a Cigna provider
- Use the Cigna website or mobile app to locate nearby in-network dentists
- Search by service type, such as screenings, cleanings, or sealants
Verify services offered
Before booking, confirm that your chosen dentist provides the preventive services you need, including:
- Oral cancer exams (oral cancer exams with cigna dental)
- Digital x-rays (digital x-rays covered by cigna)
- Sealants and fluoride treatments
Internal tools and support
If you need assistance, call Cigna customer service. They can help you find a practice that accepts your specific plan and answer questions about covered services.
By choosing an in-network provider—such as those listed under in-network dentist for exams and cleanings—you avoid out-of-network fees and streamline claims processing.
Maximize covered treatments
Beyond screenings, you can often bundle additional preventive treatments to protect your smile and minimize future costs.
Combine screenings with cleanings
Scheduling your exam and cleaning on the same day saves time and ensures both services fall within your preventive benefit period.
Add fluoride treatments
Fluoride can strengthen enamel and reduce cavities, especially for children and those prone to decay. Many Cigna plans cover fluoride treatments at 100% for eligible ages and twice per year (fluoride treatment covered by cigna).
Consider dental sealants
Sealants provide a protective barrier on molars and premolars. When applied during a preventive visit, they can be covered in full or at a reduced cost (dental sealants covered by insurance).
Include oral cancer screenings
An oral cancer exam is a quick visual check for signs of disease. This screening is generally included in your preventive visit, but confirm with your dentist and plan.
By coordinating these treatments during your preventive appointment, you take full advantage of annual benefits and reduce the risk of more extensive—and expensive—procedures later.
Plan ahead for costs
While preventive screenings are often fully covered, understanding potential costs for additional services helps you budget effectively.
Deductibles and coinsurance
- DHMO plans typically have no deductibles for preventive care
- PPO plans may require you to meet a deductible before certain services are covered at 100%
Annual maximums
Most plans impose an annual maximum on non-preventive services. Although screenings are outside this limit, treatments like fillings and crowns count toward your maximum.
Waiting periods
Some restorative or specialty services require a waiting period before coverage begins. Preventive screenings generally have no wait, but verify any delays for other treatments.
Tips to reduce costs
- Schedule all preventive services early in the plan year to avoid lapsing coverage
- Ask about in-office promotions or discounts for emerging services
- Use a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to cover any copays or coinsurance
By planning visits and budgeting for potential costs, you ensure continuous dental care without unexpected expenses.
File claims and schedule visits
Securing coverage and payment for your screening involves a few straightforward steps.
Prepare your information
- Provide your Cigna member ID to the dental office
- Confirm your plan type (DHMO, PPO, Medicare Advantage, etc.)
Confirm coverage before treatment
Call your dentist’s office to verify that they will file claims on your behalf and that preventive screenings are covered under your plan.
Review Explanation of Benefits (EOB)
- After your visit, you’ll receive an EOB detailing covered services, any applied deductible, and your responsibility
- If you notice discrepancies, contact Cigna customer service or your dental office for clarification
Schedule follow-up care
Based on your screening results, your dentist may recommend additional services. Review your coverage for restorative or specialty treatments, and plan them according to your benefit year.
By taking these steps—choosing in-network providers, confirming coverage, and tracking claims—you keep oral health care affordable and hassle-free. Start by booking your preventive exam today and unlock the full benefits of dental screening covered by Cigna insurance.