Ameritas Dental vs Delta Dental: Which Is Better for Texans?
A side-by-side comparison of Ameritas and Delta Dental individual plans for Texas residents — network, cost, and coverage.
No credit card needed · Coverage from $25/month · Texas licensed advisor
When shopping for individual dental insurance in Texas, Ameritas and Delta Dental are two of the most frequently compared carriers. Both offer solid PPO networks and competitive rates — but they differ in meaningful ways depending on your dental history, age, and what procedures you're anticipating.
This comparison is based on 2026 plan data for Texas individuals. I've reviewed both carriers as a licensed Texas insurance advisor and laid out the key differences below.
🦷 Why Ameritas Stands Out
Ameritas wins on monthly premium (typically $8–$15/month cheaper for comparable coverage) and has no waiting period on preventive care. Delta Dental wins on brand familiarity and employer-sponsored plan dominance — but for individual buyers, Ameritas is often the better value.
Ameritas Plan Tiers at a Glance
| Tier | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Preventive | ~$25–$30 |
| Basic Restorative | ~$38–$48 |
| Comprehensive | ~$55–$65 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has a larger dental network in Texas — Ameritas or Delta Dental?
Both have extensive networks in Texas. Delta Dental has roughly 6,000+ participating dentists in Texas through its Premier and PPO networks combined. Ameritas has over 10,000 access points through its Prime Dental network. For most Texas cities, both carriers will have a comparable selection of in-network dentists.
Is Ameritas or Delta Dental cheaper in Texas?
Ameritas individual plans are generally $8–$15/month less expensive than comparable Delta Dental individual plans in Texas. On an annual basis, that's $96–$180 in savings on premiums alone, before accounting for any procedures.
Does Delta Dental have a waiting period?
Yes — Delta Dental individual plans typically have a 6-month waiting period for basic restorative procedures and a 12-month waiting period for major procedures. Ameritas has the same structure, but some Ameritas plans waive waiting periods entirely for an additional premium.
Which is better for dental implants — Ameritas or Delta Dental?
Both carriers cover implants at 50% on their major plans after the waiting period. Delta Dental has slightly broader implant coverage in some markets due to its tiered provider agreements. For Texas, they're roughly equivalent on implant benefits.
Can I switch from Delta Dental to Ameritas?
Yes, you can switch to Ameritas during an open enrollment period or at any time as an individual buyer. Be aware that waiting periods may reset when you switch carriers, so timing matters if you have a planned procedure.
Ameritas Dental · Texas
From $25/month. No waiting period on cleanings and X-rays. 10,000+ in-network Texas dentists.
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