Dental & Vision Insurance FAQs

General plan information

What is Spirit Dental & Vision?

Spirit Dental offers dental and vision insurance to individuals, families and small businesses. Spirit Dental is underwritten by Ameritas, an A-rated insurer by AM Best and in business since 1887.

Why do people choose Spirit Dental?

People choose Spirit Dental for coverage that starts now, the freedom to choose any dentist, strong PPO benefits offering 25-50% in-network savings and a variety of affordable dental plans for any budget. 

It has no waiting periods, next-day effective dates, high annual maximums up to $5,000, a lifetime deductible only paid once and a 4.8/5 Trustpilot rating.

Most “no waiting period” plans only cover cleanings right away. Spirit’s no wait benefits apply to major work too—crowns, root canals, dentures and implants—so you can get the care you need immediately with savings. 

Plans and benefits vary by state.

How does Spirit Dental work?

1. Start by getting a dental quote and compare plans.
2. Once you choose a plan, you’ll have an option to bundle with vision coverage.
3. You can then choose a start date that works for you—as early as tomorrow—and use your coverage at any dentist.
4. For covered care, the plan pays a percentage (coinsurance)—highest for preventive (cleanings, exams), less for basic (fillings) and up to 60% for major coverage (crowns, root canals, dentures)—up to your annual maximum.
5. You pay a one-time deductible when you see your dentist and a monthly premium to keep the plan active.
6. Seeing an in-network dentist lowers your costs on top of plan benefits, so check to see if your dentist is in-network for more savings.
7. There’s also a one-time enrollment fee at signup. 

Plans and benefits vary by state.

In what states can I purchase an individual Spirit Dental plan?

Spirit Dental is available in every state except Washington and Massachusetts.

Waiting periods

Does Spirit Dental have a waiting period?

No. Spirit Dental has no waiting periods for covered preventive, basic, major care services or orthodontics for kids. That means your coverage is active from your start date.

*Child ortho is available in most states on select plans.

What are next-day effective dates?

Next-day effective dates mean your coverage can start as soon as the day after you enroll. You choose your start date during enrollment. This helps you get care quickly without a long delay.

How soon can my coverage start with Spirit Dental?

Because there’s no waiting period and next-day effective dates, you can choose a start date that’s as soon as tomorrow. Your benefits are active from that date across preventive, basic and major care.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Your enrollment may take 2-3 business days before it becomes accessible in the carrier's system. To verify benefits your dentist can go to Ameritas Verification of Benefits or call Customer Service at 866-619-6095.

What does “no waiting period” mean?

No waiting period means your coverage is active when your plan starts, and you don't have to wait months before using it. Traditional dental insurance plans typically make you wait before certain care is covered—often six to twelve months for basic or major care. Spirit removes the waiting period across covered preventive, basic and major care, which is uncommon. 

Why do no waiting periods matter?

If a dental plan makes you wait a year before it covers a crown or root canal, you either delay the treatment (which can further complicate the issue) or pay full price before benefits begin. A no wait dental plan starts your coverage immediately. That’s one of the main reasons why people who need major dental work right away choose Sprit Dental.

Is there a waiting period for major work like crowns, root canals, bridges or dentures?

No. Spirit Dental has no waiting period for major care services.

Dentists and network

What dentist network does Spirit Dental use?

Spirit uses the Ameritas PPO network, one of the largest dental networks in the country offering 25-50% reduced rates. Because the Ameritas network is large and nationwide, there's a good chance your current dentist already participates. You can find a dentist near me through the Ameritas provider lookup tool.

Is Ameritas and Spirit Dental the same?

Yes. Spirit Dental policies are underwritten and administered by Ameritas insurance. Ameritas handles all the billing and claims for Spirit Dental policies. If your dentist accepts Ameritas, they accept Spirit Dental.

How do I find an in-network dentist?

To find a participating dentist for Spirit Dental plans, please use the following link and steps provided below: https://dentalnetwork.ameritas.com/classic

1. Enter your city, state and select from the drop-down menu.
2. You may select "Additional Filters" including distance or use your specific provider's name.
3. click the red 'Search' button to display results.

How does in-network care save me money?

When you see a provider that participates in the network, it means that dentist has already agreed to lower fees for services. Network providers with Ameritas charge 25-50% less than their standard rates.

Does my dentist take this plan?

With Spirit PPO and Flex plans, you can see any licensed dentist you choose, you’re never limited to a network. However, you’ll likely save more with participating providers with Ameritas. If your dentist isn’t in-network, you still have coverage, but you may need to pay at the time of service and submit the claim yourself for reimbursement. Some dentists will also submit this on your behalf.

Can I keep my dentist?

Yes. Spirit Dental offers PPO dental insurance plans, so you can see any dentist you choose.

In-network dentists have agreed to set rates with the Ameritas PPO network, charging 25–50% less than their standard fees. Out-of-network care is still covered, but your portion may be higher because the dentist hasn't agreed to those reduced rates. When you go out-of-network, the plan pays based on typical network rates in your area, and you're responsible for any amount your dentist charges above that (called balance billing).

With Spirit Flex dental plans, covered benefits for out-of-network care are paid at the 80th percentile of usual and customary (U&C) charges. That means the plan pays what 8 out of 10 dentists in your area typically charge. You pay the difference. You can also get PPO benefits in-network with Spirit Flex plans.

Cost and coverage

How much does Spirit Dental cost?

Plans start at around $16/month, with your exact price depending on the plan you choose, your location and who you're covering. The fastest way to see your real price is to run a dental quote to see plans available in your area. And if you're not ready to get a quote, view our affordable dental insurance plans now. 

What is a deductible and how does it work with Spirit Dental?

A deductible is the amount you pay for covered care before your plan starts paying its benefits. While most dental plans have you pay your deductible every year ($25-$100), Spirit Dental plans use a one-time $100 lifetime deductible instead. This means you pay it once and never again. Over time, that can save money compared to a deductible that resets each year.

What is an annual maximum?

An annual maximum is the most your plan pays toward covered care in one benefit or calendar year. Once the plan has paid that amount, you cover additional costs yourself until the year resets. It matters most for major work, where bills are largest. A typical dental plan has an annual maximum around $1,500. Spirit offers annual maximums up to $5,000 by Year 3 on select plans.

What is coinsurance?

Coinsurance is the amount that you share with the plan. The plan pays a portion and you pay the remaining amount. Spirit Dental's basic and major coverage grows up to year three for most plans. 

What is full coverage dental insurance?

“Full coverage” dental insurance means a plan covers a variety of dental services, typically preventive, basic and major care. It does not mean the plan pays 100% of the cost. Spirit Dental offers immediate full coverage dental insurance that covers preventive, basic and major dental care, and child orthodontic services, all with no waiting period. Here’s what’s included*:

• Preventive care: cleanings, exams, X-rays
• Basic care: fillings, extractions
• Major care: crowns, root canals, bridges, dentures, implants (missing tooth clause applies)
• Child orthodontia: teeth aligners, such as braces

Plans and benefits vary by state.

Can I bundle my dental plan with vision coverage?

Yes. Spirit Dental offers Spirit Vision coverage through EyeMed, one of the top networks in the country. It can help with eye exams, glasses or contacts. Bundling can simplify coverage and add value if you wear glasses or contacts.

How do I find a Spirit Vision provider?

In most states the EyeMed Access Vision network is used. Click here to find a provider near you. If EyeMed is not available, you may choose to enroll in a plan without a provider network. In these instances, you may use any eyecare provider. The Spirit Vision plan is not available in all states. 

Is there a hearing coverage option available with Spirit Dental?

Yes. Hearing is available with the Spirit Preferred PPO plan. Available in most states.

What isn’t covered by Spirit Dental?

Coverage varies by plan with most of the plans focused on preventive, basic and major dental care. Cosmetic-only treatments like teeth whitening are not covered. There’s also a missing-tooth clause that means coverage is not available for teeth that are already missing. This applies mostly to implant coverage.

Can I buy Spirit Dental if I have Medicare?

Yes. Spirit Dental is standalone dental insurance you can buy alongside Medicare, any time of year.

Enrolling in a plan

How do I get a quote?

To get a dental plan quote is quick and easy. Enter your ZIP code and a few basic details to see plans and pricing available in your area. You can compare plan options side-by-side, pick a start date that works for you and enroll online when you’re ready. If you prefer to talk with a licensed dental insurance expert, a Spirit Dental team member can walk you through your options and answer all the questions you have. Call us at 844-833-8440.

How do I enroll?

You can enroll online after you get a quote or with help from our Spirit Dental team. You'll choose your plan, set your start date and complete a short application.

Who can enroll in an individual Spirit Dental plan?

Spirit Dental plans is available for individuals, families, self-employed people, retirees and Medicare shoppers to enroll. You don't need an employer plan to get covered. Spirit Dental also provides dental coverage for small businesses.

Can I enroll in an individual plan anytime?

You can enroll any time of year. There's no open-enrollment window or waiting period. Coverage is active from your chosen start date, including for major work.

Is there an enrollment fee?

Yes. A one-time $25 enrollment fee applies when you sign up. After that, your only ongoing cost is your monthly premium and a one-time deductible. There is no waiting period, so coverage is active from your chosen start date—including for major work.

How do I pay for my plan

You may choose to have your premium deducted from your checking or savings account (ACH) or with credit card or debit card.

Payment Information:

1. Initial premium will be withdrawn within 3 business days of your policy's effective date, subsequent premiums are due on the day of the month in which the policy was effective.
2. Plan includes a one-time non-refundable enrollment fee of $25. This charge will be made at the time of purchase and may appear as a separate transaction from your insurance.

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes. Spirit Dental offers a 30-day customer satisfaction guarantee, so you can enroll and review your plan with confidence.

When can I cancel my dental insurance policy?

You may cancel at any time; however, the benefits get better the longer you have the plan which means less out-of-pocket costs for you as time goes on. If you cancel and wish to re-enroll later, you will be responsible for the enrollment fee again, the deductible again and you will start over at day one coverage. By keeping the plan active, and staying on top of your preventive care, you can mitigate if not avoid future expensive services. Dental insurance pays for itself by keeping the plan active and going to the dentist regularly.

I have more dependents than the form allows me to enter?

Call Spirit Dental at 1-800-620-5010 and a team member will take care of it.

How often will my premium change?

Initial rates are guaranteed for 12 months and can change with 30 days notice after that.

ID cards and online member account

What will I receive after enrollment?

Right after enrolling, you'll get a confirmation email with instructions for setting up your online member portal to access your ID card, policy certificate and more.

When will I get my ID card?

Your ID card is available immediately in your online member portal. If you'd rather have a physical card mailed to you, you'll need to select that option during enrollment. If you've already enrolled and didn't request a mailed card, you can still access your digital card through the portal or contact us to request one.

How do I access my ID card?

After enrolling, you'll receive an email from Ameritas with your Member ID and instructions to create your member account. Once your account is active, your ID card and policy documents are available to view. You can also access everything through the Ameritas Benefits app. If you requested a physical card, please allow up to 10 business days for it to arrive by mail. 

Your dentist can verify your benefits by calling Ameritas at 800-487-5553, but benefit verification isn't available until your effective date.

How do I access my Spirit Dental online member account?

To access your online account, please follow these steps:

• Visit ameritas.com
• Select the Sign In button in the upper right corner
• Select the Personal Accounts option Under Dental/Vision/Hearing
• Select Member Sign In
• Select the Register Now button
• Input the required information
• The Member ID is a 9 digit ID

I need help registering or I'm locked out. Who do I call?

Contact the Ameritas Customer Connections Team at 888-808-5080. They can help with registration issues, password resets and portal navigation.

Where do I find my benefits and claims?

Select the Dental Policy tab from your dashboard. From there you can view your benefits snapshot, deductible progress, annual maximum and submitted claims.

• Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. (Ameritas Life) PO Box 82520, Lincoln, NE 68501-2520
• Claims: 877-667-6127
• Customer Service (non-claim questions): 866-619-6095
• E-mail: SpiritIndservice@Ameritas.com

How do I update my payment method or billing date?

From your dashboard or Quick Links, select Billing and Account, then click the Payments tab. From there you can add or update payment methods, view payment history, and edit your billing date.

Where do I find my policy documents?

Under the Billing and Account section, select the General tab and click View Documents or Request Documents. Policy documents are also accessible via Quick Links.

Is there a mobile app?

Yes. You can download the Ameritas Member Benefits App from the App Store or Google Play. Log in using the same credentials as your member portal. All portal features are available in the app.

Still have questions? We can help

If you're not sure which plan fits your needs, our Spirit Dental team can walk you through your options and help you decide. If you have additional questions not answered on this page, we’ll help you with those too. No pressure, just clear answers and friendly guidance.

When you’re ready, get a quote to see plans and prices in your area. Coverage can start as soon as tomorrow.

Plan availability, benefits and costs vary by state and plan. Coverage underwritten by Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.