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Frequently asked questions about Principal® Dental Access Plan
Getting started
What is the Principal® Dental Access Plan?

The Principal® Dental Access Plan is a dental discount plan—not dental insurance—that provides immediate access to reduced fees for dental services. Unlike insurance, there are no deductibles, no waiting periods, no annual maximums, and no claim forms to file. This money-saving program is available to individuals of all ages, offering discounts of 15% to 60% on dental care at thousands of participating dentists and specialist locations. You simply show your membership card at participating locations to receive discounted rates on dental services.

Is this the individual version of the Principal® dental insurance plan I had through my employer?

No. Principal® Dental Access Plan is NOT insurance. It's a dental discount plan and this is how our plan works.

Who’s eligible for the Principal® Dental Access Plan?

Everyone. The Principal® Dental Access Plan is especially popular with retirees looking for dental cost savings, but it’s also ideal for young adults without employer-provided insurance, part-time workers without dental benefits, gig economy workers and freelancers, self-employed individuals, and anyone wanting to reduce their out-of-pocket dental expenses. There are no limitations, so join today.

Is the Principal® Dental Access Plan dental insurance?

No, the Principal® Dental Access Plan is not dental insurance—it's a dental discount plan that works differently. Unlike insurance, there are no deductibles to meet, no claim forms to file, no annual maximums to track, and no waiting periods before you can use services. Members simply show their card at participating locations to receive immediate discounts of 15% to 60% on all dental services.

Can I see any dentist?

No. You must see a dentist that participates in the plan. To look for your dentist or get a list of participating dentists in your area, go to Find a Dentist or call one of our plan specialists at 833-201-0142 if you don’t see your preferred dentist.

What types of procedures are discounted by the Principal® Dental Access Plan?

The discounts apply to all dental services, with savings of 15% to 60% off regular office fees. This includes routine preventive care, such as regular check-ups, cleanings, exams, and x-rays. The plan also provides discounts on specialty services, such as extractions and fillings, as well as major procedures, including crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. Whether you need basic dental care or more extensive treatment, you'll save on every visit. 

How soon can I begin using my membership?

You can start using your Principal® Dental Access Plan immediately after your plan becomes effective. Here's what happens: 

  • You'll receive an email confirmation with your membership ID right away
  • Your membership card and plan details will arrive by mail within 5-7 business days
  • Need to use your plan before your card arrives? Simply log in to My Account to download or print a temporary card 
Can I add more dependents, and will there be an additional charge?

Yes, if you’re on a family plan, you can add additional dependents any time, at no additional cost. Log in to My Account and select “Make Changes” under the “Plan Summary.” Or, if you’re on an individual plan, call us at 833-201-0142. We’ll need the first and last name, date of birth, and relationship to the member of the additional eligible dependent(s). Your membership fee will change if you change the membership type. An eligible dependent means the subscriber‘s spouse, domestic partner, or children up to the age of 26.

Account information
Do I have access to my plan details online?

Yes, with secure, online access, you can log in to your My Account —anytime it’s convenient—to add or remove family members, update payment information, and view and print your member ID card. When it comes to your Principal® Dental Access Plan account, you’re in the driver’s seat.

What if I want to change my payment source?

Log in to My Account and select “Manage Payment Details.” You can also call us at 833-201-0142, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. PT.

What if I lose my membership card?

If you know your membership ID, log in to My Account and download or print a copy of your membership card. Don’t remember your ID? Give us a call at 833-201-0142.

What is my deductible?

There’s NO deductible. At the time of service, simply pay the dentist for treatment at the contracted rates.

How do I submit a claim form?

There are no claim forms or reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses. Just pay your dentist for treatment at the discounted rates.

Billing and payment information
How much does it cost to become a Principal® Dental Access Plan member?

Membership is $8 a month for individuals ($96 yearly), or $10 a month for families ($120 yearly). There’s a one-time, non-refundable activation fee of $25 for the monthly membership or $10 for the yearly membership. Activation fee refunds vary by state. Join online or call one of our plan specialists at 833-201-0142.

What forms of payment are accepted?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Or, with a yearly membership, you can pay by mailing us a check or money order.

To whom do I make my check payable?

Checks should be made payable to Principal® Dental Access Plan. Membership applications and payments received by mail will be processed within 24 business hours of receipt. Mail check with completed enrollment form to Principal® Dental Access Plan, PO BOX 420930, San Diego, CA 92142.

Do the member name and billing name need to be the same?

No, payments can be made on behalf of the member by someone else. We’ll need the payer's full name, billing address, phone number, and relation to the member.

If I make monthly payments, when are the payments processed?

The initial monthly membership payment is processed within 24 business hours of receipt. All recurring monthly payments are processed each month on the day your plan membership became effective. For example, if your membership effective date was on the 10th of the month, your payments will be on the 10th of every month.

What if I want to change how often I pay for my membership?

Simply call us at 833-201-0142, and we’ll be happy to help.

Participating dentists
Is my dentist part of Principal® Dental Access Plan?

With thousands of dentist and specialist locations, your dentist may already be a participating Principal® Dental Access Plan dentist. To look for your dentist or get a list of participating dentists in your area, go to Find a Dentist or call one of our plan specialists at 833-201-0142 if you don't see your preferred dentist.

Are Principal® Dental Access Plan dentists licensed and insured?

Yes, Principal® Dental Access Plan participating dentists undergo stringent credentialing and re-credentialing reviews.

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