Principal Dental Insurance Plan Comparison: Find the Best Option for Your Needs

When it comes to protecting your oral health, choosing the right dental insurance plan is just as important as finding the right dentist. Principal Financial Group, a trusted name in the insurance industry, offers a variety of dental insurance plans designed to fit different needs and budgets. If you’re considering Principal dental insurance, understanding the differences between plan options can help you make a smart and cost-effective choice.

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive Principal dental insurance plan comparison, covering coverage details, costs, and features so you can select the plan that best matches your lifestyle.

Why Dental Insurance Matters

Dental care can be expensive, especially when major procedures like root canals, crowns, or orthodontics are needed. Without insurance, routine check-ups, X-rays, and cleanings can quickly add up. Dental insurance helps reduce out-of-pocket costs, ensures preventive care, and provides financial protection for unexpected dental issues.

Principal’s dental insurance plans are structured to support both preventive and restorative care, making them ideal for individuals, families, and employers looking for affordable coverage.

Types of Principal Dental Insurance Plans

Principal offers several types of dental plans, each designed to meet different needs. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Principal PPO Dental Plans

Flexibility: Members can choose any licensed dentist, but costs are lower when using in-network providers.
Coverage: Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is often covered at 100%. Basic and major services, such as fillings, crowns, and root canals, are covered at different percentage levels.
Best For: Individuals and families who want nationwide access to dentists with predictable cost-sharing.

2. Principal DHMO Dental Plans

Fixed Costs: These plans typically have lower monthly premiums but require members to use dentists within the DHMO network.
Copays: Services are paid based on fixed copay amounts rather than coinsurance percentages.
Best For: People who want affordable monthly premiums and are comfortable staying in-network.

3. Principal Preventive-Only Plans

Low Premiums: These plans focus on preventive care, covering exams, cleanings, and X-rays.
No Coverage for Major Procedures: Not ideal if you anticipate needing extensive dental work.
Best For: Young adults, students, or those who primarily need preventive care and don’t expect major dental expenses.

4. Principal Group Dental Insurance (Employer-Sponsored)

Customizable: Employers can design benefit packages tailored to employee needs.
Flexible Networks: Employees often have access to broad PPO networks with competitive pricing.
Best For: Businesses looking to offer comprehensive dental coverage to employees.

Principal Dental Insurance Coverage Comparison

Here’s a simplified comparison of what you can expect across Principal’s most popular plans:

Plan Type	Preventive Care	Basic Care	Major Care	Orthodontics	Network Flexibility
PPO Dental Plan	100% covered	70–80%	50–60%	Optional add-on	High (in or out-of-network)
DHMO Dental Plan	100% covered	Fixed copays	Fixed copays	Limited	Must use in-network providers
Preventive-Only Plan	100% covered	Not covered	Not covered	Not covered	Flexible (but limited coverage)
Employer-Sponsored Plans	100% covered	70–80%	50–60%	Often included	High, depends on employer design

Key Benefits of Principal Dental Insurance

Large Provider Network: Access to thousands of dentists nationwide.
Predictable Costs: Coverage breakdowns make it easier to budget for care.
Wellness-Focused: Strong emphasis on preventive care to catch problems early.
Flexible Options: Choice between low-cost preventive plans and comprehensive coverage.
Employer Advantages: Businesses can boost employee satisfaction with tailored benefits.

Tips for Choosing the Best Principal Dental Plan

When comparing Principal dental insurance plans, keep these factors in mind:

Assess Your Dental Needs: Do you need only preventive care, or do you anticipate major dental work?
Check Dentist Availability: Make sure your preferred dentist is in-network to save money.
Review Monthly Premiums vs. Coverage: A lower premium may mean higher out-of-pocket costs for major procedures.
Consider Family Coverage: If you have dependents, evaluate orthodontic coverage and cost-sharing options.
Employer Plans vs. Individual Plans: If offered through your employer, group plans often provide the most value.

Final Thoughts

Principal dental insurance offers a wide range of plans that balance affordability with coverage flexibility. Whether you’re looking for basic preventive care or a comprehensive plan with orthodontic benefits, Principal has options tailored to different lifestyles and budgets.

By comparing plan types—PPO, DHMO, preventive-only, and employer-sponsored—you can make an informed decision that ensures both your oral health and financial wellness are protected.

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore Principal’s dental insurance plans online, compare quotes, and choose the plan that best fits your needs.