Frequently Asked Questions

What dependents can I put on the plan?
Your spouse, domestic partner and/or any child under the age of 26 who you are a legal guardian of or who is your dependent may be added as a dependent on your dental plan.

What is considered a domestic partner?

• Each party is the sole Domestic Partner of the other;
• Each party is at least 18 years of age or older and competent to enter into a contract in the state in which they reside;
• Both parties currently share a common legal residence and have shares said residence for at least six months prior to application for Domestic Partner coverage;
• Neither party is married to anyone or related to the other by adoption or blood to a degree of closeness that would otherwise bar marriage in the state in which they legally reside;
• Both parties are in a relationship of mutual support, caring and commitment and they intend to remain in such a relationship in the indefinite future;
• Both parties are jointly responsible for basic living expenses (basic living expenses are defines as the cost of basic food, shelter and any other expenses of the common household. The partners need not contribute equally or jointly to the payment of these expenses as long as they agree that both are responsible for them); and
• Neither party filed a Termination of Domestic Partnership within the preceding nine months.

How do I pay for my membership?
We will accept credit and debit cards for monthly premiums. Your credit card will be charged the monthly premium for 12 consecutive months.

What if I don't have a credit card?
You can also pay with a check. Check payments must be made for the full annual premium.

How long do I have to enroll?
Enrollment in the Florida Dental Benefits plan is for a minimum of 12 months from your effective date of coverage.

What do I have to pay for dental services?
Some procedures are provided to you at no charge like exams and routine cleanings. Other procedures are provided at fixed costs called copayments. You are responsible for paying the copayment to the dental office at the time the services are performed. The copayments listed offer a significant savings to the usual and customary fees charged by dentists not on the Florida Dental Benefits plan.

How often should I visit the dentist?
You should visit your dentist every 6 months for preventive services such as examinations, x-rays and dental cleanings.

How do I choose a dentist?
Visit our website at www.FDBenefits.com: Choose “Our Providers” and choose your “Plan type” from the drop down list (Basic or High Option). If you do not have access to a computer, our Member Services Representatives are also available to assist you with choosing a dentist.

Can I go to any dentist?
You must go to a Florida Dental Benefits dentist to receive the services listed on the benefits schedule. If you go to a dentist that is out-of-network you will NOT have coverage.

How do I make an appointment with a dentist?
It is easy to make an appointment. You may schedule an appointment by contacting the office directly after your effective date of coverage. Be sure to identify yourself as a Florida Dental Benefits Member before each appointment. If you need help, our Member Services Representative can assist you with scheduling your appointment.

What if I want to change to another dentist?
Call our Member Services Department and ask to transfer to another Florida Dental Benefits dentist. The Representative will let you know when you can make an appointment at the new dental office. You can change your dentist as many times as you like, but not more than once per month.

What is the difference between a General Dentist and a Specialist?
A General Dentist can perform most of the procedures that you will need. However, there are times you may require additional expertise for certain procedures such as extractions and root canals. Specialists receive additional training and concentrate only on providing specific services. For example oral surgeons concentrate on extracting teeth, periodontists treat gums and endodontists perform root canals. The plans are valid at the participating Florida Dental Benefits specialist’s office. A list of participating specialists is available by calling our Member Services Department. All dental specialist referrals must be pre-approved by Florida Dental Benefits.

What is the difference between a prophylaxis and a deep cleaning?
A prophylaxis is a routine cleaning, meaning it is preventive dental care to keep teeth and oral tissues in a healthy state by removing calculus, plaque, and common stains. This procedure is typically performed twice a year. A deep cleaning is when a dentist or dental hygienist cleans your teeth and the area between the gums and the roots. This is also known as scaling and root planing. It is designed to avoid and treat periodontal disease that generally develops when bacteria create pockets around the tooth and below the gum line. Your dentist or dental hygienist will discuss your individual dental needs and prescribe a specific course of treatment for you.

What if I have questions about the procedures that are recommended by the dentist?
If you need help understanding your benefits or treatment plan, please contact our Member Services department. Our representatives will review your benefits and charges with you.