New Data Shows Delta Dental Continues Offering Largest Networks

A new report shows that the Delta Dental national PPO networks remain the largest in the nation, a position we have held for more than five decades.

The Delta Dental Premier® dental network offers more than 124,000 participating individual dentists in more than 179,000 office locations nationwide. The Delta Dental PPO network includes more than 62,000 individual dentists in more than 102,000 office locations. Both networks represent the largest in their respective classes, with three out of every four dentists in the nation participating in one or more of our networks.

“Having the largest networks of dentists in the nation is tremendously important because it means we can deliver maximum access and freedom of choice with minimal disruption or inconvenience to our 50 million subscribers,” says Kim Volk, president and CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association. “Our networks represent a critical part of fulfilling our commitment to promoting good oral health by creating access to affordable dental care.”

The size and strength of our networks relies on a number of factors. First, the 39 independently operating member companies that comprise our national system allow for locally based recruitment and dentists relationships, even while all part of a single, uniform nationwide network.

From everyday operations to the highest levels of management, we also employ more licensed dentists and dental professionals on staff than other dental carriers. This ensures that dentistry’s needs and concerns are represented – imperative to maintaining network credibility and stability.

In a recent nationwide survey, practicing dentists were asked their opinions about some of the nation’s largest dental benefits carriers and to name those characteristics they appreciate most from these carriers. The study, conducted by The Long Group, an independent research firm, concluded that we outperformed all other national carriers in areas identified as most important to dentists such as customer service, claims processing and overall satisfaction.

“We work hard at developing and maintaining relationships with dentists, and it shows in our networks,” says Volk. “They’re more than just numbers to us -- they’re partners in helping to advance solutions for great oral health.”