SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 – Relocating can be an exciting, but stressful, time. Worrying about your family’s dental needs shouldn’t be part of that stress.
“A permanent change of station to a new location doesn’t mean compromising your family’s dental care,” said Douglas Elsesser, program analyst with the Dental Program Section of the TRICARE Health Plan. “You can work with the TRICARE Dental Program to find a new network dentist and continue receiving quality dental care.”
Here’s a guide to help you find a dentist and understand the advantages of choosing a network provider with the TDP.
How to find a new network dentist
Using the Find a Dentist tool is the easiest way to find a network dentist online. In the United States, this tool lets you search for network dentists in your new area by entering your city, state, and ZIP code.
Want to speak with a representative? You can call the customer service line of United Concordia, the TDP contractor. They’ll help you find a network dentist close to your new location. For locations in the CONUS service area, you can reach United Concordia at 844-653-4061. The CONUS service area includes the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Before you pick a new dentist, update your address in DEERS. The TDP uses DEERS to verify eligibility, and accurate information will help you avoid delays in getting dental services.
Advantages of choosing a network dentist
Lower costs
Network dentists agree to provide services at specific rates. You typically only pay the applicable cost-share, which means you have lower costs when seeing a network dentist, as described in the TRICARE Dental Program Handbook. Network dentists agree to the terms set by United Concordia, which means they won’t bill you over what is allowed for covered services. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you won’t be surprised by high bills.
Convenience
Network dentists also manage the claims process for you. They submit claims directly to United Concordia, reducing stress on your end. This process may allow your claims to be processed more quickly and paid faster.
Quality
United Concordia monitors its network to make sure that the dentists are billing correctly and meeting specific standards of care. By choosing a network provider, you can be confident in the quality and consistency of your family’s dental care.
Preventive services
Certain services, such as cleanings, exams, or sealants for children, are covered at no cost when performed by network dentists. These preventive services promote overall oral health.
Enhanced benefits
By choosing a network dentist, you can ensure continuous, quality dental care, minimize out-of-pocket costs, and avoid paperwork. For more information, check out the TRICARE Dental Program Handbook. To find a network dentist near you, use the Find a Dentist tool.
Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions, and create your personalized profile to get benefit updates, news, and more.
Courtesy Story
Defense Health Agency