Turning 60 is a milestone, and you deserve a smile that shines as bright as your spirit. Yet dental bills can add up fast, especially for restorative work like crowns, bridges, and implants. When you choose in-network restorative dental care with Cigna, you lock in predictable rates that lower your out-of-pocket costs. In this article, you’ll learn how Cigna covers treatments that matter most to seniors, how to find the right dentist, and savvy ways to stretch your benefits.
You’ll walk away with a clear plan to save on the treatments you need.
Understand Cigna plan options
Not all Cigna plans work the same way. Picking the right one helps you get the most value for your dollars.
Dental PPO and HMO basics
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Dental PPO (DPPO)
You can see any dentist, but in-network providers give the best negotiated rates. You’ll pay coinsurance (your share of the bill) plus a deductible. -
Dental HMO (DHMO)
You choose a primary dentist from Cigna’s network. There’s usually no deductible or annual maximum, but you have fewer provider choices.
EPO and POS summary
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Exclusive provider organization (EPO)
Similar to a PPO, but out-of-network care isn’t covered. -
Point of service (POS)
You pick a network dentist for lower costs, yet you can venture out-of-network at higher rates.
Plan cost factors
Your monthly premium depends on your zip code, age, and whether you pick a PPO or HMO. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Plan type | Deductible | Annual max | Network flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| DPPO | $50–$100 | $1,000–$2,000 | High |
| DHMO | $0 | No limit | Low |
| EPO | $50–$100 | $1,000–$1,500 | Medium |
| POS | $50–$100 | $1,000–$2,000 | Medium |
Explore restorative coverage
Cigna’s full coverage plans help with preventive, basic, and major restorative work. Let’s break down what each procedure may cost you.
Crowns and onlays
Crowns protect cracked or weak teeth. Onlays repair damage to tooth cusps.
- Coverage (DPPO)
Preventive 100%, basic 80%, major 50% - Coverage (DHMO)
Copay $200–$300 per crown, varies by location
For details on permanent crowns, check out cigna covered permanent crown placement.
Bridges and implants
Bridges span gaps, and implants replace missing roots and crowns.
- Bridge coverage (DPPO)
50% coinsurance after deductible - Implant coverage (DPPO)
30–40% after deductible, 6- to 12-month waiting period
Learn more about bridge options at cigna dental bridge replacement coverage, and find a trusted provider via cigna in-network dental implant provider.
Dentures and partials
Full or partial dentures restore your bite and smile.
- Full denture coverage (DPPO)
50% after deductible, lifetime maximum applies - Partial denture coverage (DHMO)
Fixed copay, no waiting period
Explore flexible options at cigna covered flexible partial dentures and learn about stabilizing loose dentures with cigna denture stabilization coverage.
Full arch restoration
If you need a full upper or lower arch rebuilt, Cigna can help cover major costs. Coverage varies by plan type and may require pre-authorization. See cigna covered full arch dental restoration for details.
Compare benefits and limits
Understanding limits helps you avoid surprise bills.
Waiting periods and maximums
Most DPPO plans have waiting periods of 6–12 months for major restorative care like implants and bridges. DHMO plans often skip waiting periods but may limit your choice of provider. Annual maximums cap how much Cigna pays each year.
Deductibles and coinsurance
You’ll often meet a deductible of $50–$100 before major services kick in. After that, you share the cost with Cigna based on coinsurance rates (for example, 50% share).
In-network vs out-of-network
Staying in-network means lower negotiated fees and less paperwork. Out-of-network dentists charge their standard rates, and you’ll submit your own claims. That often means higher out-of-pocket costs.
Find in-network providers
You’ll save most when you pick a dentist who’s already in Cigna’s network.
Using Cigna’s provider directory
- Visit Cigna’s website or call customer service
- Enter your zip code and choose “restorative dentistry”
- Filter by distance, rating, or specialty
Choosing experienced dentists
Look for reviews from patients over 60. Ask if the dentist has treated crowns, bridges, or implants for seniors. Confirm they handle Cigna claims electronically to avoid claim delays.
Maximize your Cigna benefits
Ready to stretch every dollar? Here’s how.
Pre-approvals and estimates
Submit a pre-treatment estimate for any major procedure. Cigna will outline what it will pay and what you owe. This prevents surprise bills.
Flexible spending accounts
If you have an FSA or HSA through your retiree benefits, you can use pre-tax dollars for deductibles, coinsurance, or uncovered services.
CareCredit financing
Can’t wait for FSA funding? CareCredit is a health financing card that offers low- or no-interest plans. Many dental offices accept it for restorative work.
Prepare for your appointment
A little prep goes a long way.
Gathering plan details
- Have your Cigna ID card handy
- Note your deductible, annual max, and waiting periods
- Know your coinsurance rates for major treatments
Questions to ask your dentist
- Will you file claims electronically?
- What is the total cost estimate after Cigna pays?
- Do any additional fees apply for lab work or sedation?
Got questions about coverage? Don’t hesitate to call Cigna or your dentist’s office before you schedule.
Key takeaways
- Pick the right Cigna plan (DPPO, DHMO, EPO, POS) to match your budget and provider choice.
- Restorative care like crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures often has waiting periods and coinsurance.
- Always stay in-network for the best negotiated rates—use Cigna’s directory to find a trusted dentist.
- Submit pre-authorizations to get a clear cost breakdown, and consider FSAs or CareCredit for extra flexibility.
- Keep your plan details close at hand and ask your dentist the right questions before any major work.
Ready to get started with in-network restorative care? Reach out to Cigna to confirm your eligibility and find the right dentist today. Then schedule your consultation, and enjoy a healthier, more confident smile.
Let us know your experience or tips below—your insight could help someone else save on their dental care!
