A Dental Maintenance Organization (DMO) is a type of dental insurance plan that requires individuals to select a primary care dentist from a network. Enrollees receive care exclusively from this designated dentist or through referrals initiated by that dentist. The plan typically operates on a capitation system, where the dentist receives a fixed payment per patient, per month, regardless of the frequency of services rendered. For example, an individual enrolled in this type of plan would choose a participating dentist from a list provided by the insurance company and would need to see that dentist for routine checkups, cleanings, and any necessary treatments.
This model of dental coverage aims to control costs by encouraging preventive care and establishing predictable payment structures for providers. A key benefit is often lower out-of-pocket expenses for the patient, such as lower premiums and reduced or eliminated deductibles. Historically, these plans emerged as an alternative to indemnity plans, which offer greater freedom in choosing dentists but typically involve higher costs and more complex reimbursement procedures. The focus on a designated primary care dentist encourages a consistent and personalized approach to oral health.
