American Dental Plan
Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this dental plan considered "insurance?" No, American Dental Plan, founded in 1978, is a membership based dental plan that offers its members reduced fees for most dental procedures. Unlike traditional insurance, you only pay for the dental services you actually receive without paying monthly "premiums," there are no waiting periods, no claim forms, and no limitations to dental services.

2. Why isn't my dentist on your plan? Even though we contact dentists on a continual basis, sometimes the information does not get past the "front office" and therefore, the dentist is unaware of the benefits of being a dental provider. You can bring a brochure to the dentist and should they become a new provider, we will give you a one year membership to American Dental Plan free of charge AND $100 cash!

3. Why are the dentists on your plan willing to accept lower fees? All of the participating dental offices are independently owned and operated. These dental facilities understand the economic benefit of reducing the costs associated with advertising, submitting claim forms, waiting for reimbursement checks from insurance companies, as well as reducing staff time calling for pre-certification of benefits, verification of benefits, and having to resubmit claim forms to insurance companies. And in return, members of American Dental Plan are able to receive a reduced fee for service without affecting the profitability of the dental office!

4. Can I coordinate my insurance plan with American Dental Plan? There are just a few ways to utilize both an insurance plan and American Dental Plan. First of all, most insurance plans have waiting periods of 6 months to one year before certain services can be covered. You can use American Dental Plan to get the work done immediately without having to wait. Secondly, most insurance plans will place a yearly dollar limit on dental services. You can continue your treatment plan by using American Dental Plan for the extended services and be able to receive a reduced fee instead of having to wait until the next calendar year. Third, very few insurance plans provide orthodontic benefits. By using American Dental Plan, your children can get their braces without worry and you can save hundreds of dollars.

5. Can I use American Dental Plan in another state or with a dentist "out of network?" American Dental Plan is only available in Arizona and has a contractual agreement with its dental providers. Only those dentists listed will provide dental services in accordance with the most recent fee schedule.

6. How can I change to a different dentist? If you decide to change to a different general dentist, for any reason, just call our customer service department (602) 265-6677 and obtain a new sticker for the back of your ID card and have your name placed on the office roster. Keep in mind, you are only eligible to receive your second routine cleaning free of charge from your initial dentist.

7. I haven't used my dental plan membership, can I get a refund? Once you join American Dental Plan, membership benefits are available for an entire year. You may assign your benefits to another person, but there are no refunds.