Tool
Dental & vision comparison tool.
Compare dental and vision plans side-by-side across carriers in Planlined. Analyze coverage levels, networks, and costs to find the best ancillary package for your clients.
Dental plan comparison
| Feature | Description | Example plan design |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maximum | Max the plan pays per year | $1,000 - $2,500 |
| Deductible | Amount before coverage starts | $25 - $100 individual |
| Preventive Care | Cleanings, exams, x-rays | 100% (no deductible) |
| Basic Services | Fillings, extractions | 70-80% after deductible |
| Major Services | Crowns, bridges, dentures | 50% after deductible |
| Orthodontia | Braces, aligners | 50% up to $1,500 lifetime |
| Waiting Periods | Time before coverage starts | 0-12 months for major |
Dental plan types
Dental PPO
- +Freedom to see any dentist
- +No referrals needed
- +Out-of-network coverage available
- +Large networks
- -Higher premiums
- -Higher out-of-pocket if out-of-network
- -Annual maximums apply
Dental HMO (DHMO)
- +Lower premiums
- +No annual maximum
- +No deductibles typically
- +Predictable copays
- -Must use assigned dentist
- -Smaller networks
- -Referrals for specialists
- -Geographic limitations
Dental Indemnity
- +Any dentist, anywhere
- +No network restrictions
- +Simple reimbursement
- -Highest premiums
- -Upfront payment required
- -UCR limitations may apply
Vision plan comparison
| Feature | Description | Example plan design |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Coverage | Annual eye exam | $10-20 copay or 100% |
| Exam Frequency | How often covered | Every 12 months |
| Frames Allowance | Amount toward frames | $100 - $200 |
| Lenses Coverage | Single, bifocal, progressive | $25 copay or 100% |
| Contact Lens Allowance | Amount toward contacts | $100 - $200 |
| Lens Frequency | How often lenses covered | Every 12-24 months |
| Discounts | Additional savings | 20-40% off additional pairs |
How many workers can get these benefits
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Compensation Survey, March 2025, private industry workers, retrieved from the BLS Public Data API on September 15, 2026. Vision is offered far less often than medical or dental, which is why it can set a package apart.
Bundling strategies
Bundle with medical
- ●Many carriers offer discounts for bundling
- ●Single billing and administration
- ●Coordinated ID cards and portals
- ●Ask each carrier whether a multi-line discount applies
Carve-out strategy
- ●Best-in-class specialty carriers
- ●Larger networks for dental/vision
- ●More competitive standalone pricing
- ●Flexibility at renewal to shop separately
Compare all benefit types in one place.
Planlined handles medical, dental, vision, life, and disability comparisons—all in a single, unified platform.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between dental PPO and DHMO?
PPO plans offer more provider choice with in-network discounts but higher premiums. DHMO plans require choosing a primary dentist, have lower premiums, but limited networks. PPO is better for flexibility, DHMO for cost savings.
What should I compare in dental plans?
Key comparison points: Annual maximum (example plan designs run $1,000-$2,500), deductibles (individual/family), coverage percentages (preventive/basic/major), orthodontia coverage, waiting periods, and network size in your area.
Are vision plans worth offering?
Vision plans are low-cost, high-value benefits. As an example plan design, a vision plan might cost $5-15/month and provide significant savings on exams, glasses, and contacts.