What is the difference between an in-network and an out-of-network dentist?
An in-network dentist is within the approved network of dentists for a particular dental plan. Out-of-network dentists are not on the list. If you visit a dentist within the network, the amount you will be responsible for paying will be less than if you go to an out-of-network dentist. In many cases, the insurance company will not pay anything for services your receive from dentists outside their network; however, there are exceptions to this. As a general rule, Dental PPOs, POSs, and DHMOs have provider networks. Indemnity plans typically do not have networks; you go to whatever dentist you want.
