Delta Dental of California, Delta Dental Insurance Company, Delta Dental of Pennsylvania and affiliates
Delta Dental of California, Delta Dental Insurance Company, Delta Dental of Pennsylvania and affiliates
Texas Marketplace dental plans made simple
Explore our plans available through HealthCare.gov and understand what to expect before you enroll.
What to know about ACA dental plans in Texas
Shopping for dental coverage through the Marketplace looks a little different from a standard dental plan. Here's what to know before you enroll.
Consideration | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Health plan pairing | In Texas, you'll need to purchase a dental plan alongside a qualifying health plan through HealthCare.gov. |
| Coverage tiers | Our ACA plans are available in two coverage levels:
|
| What's your cost | Even if a service is covered, you may still pay part of the cost. This could include a deductible, copayment or coinsurance. |
| Adult coverage vs. pediatric coverage | Adult dental coverage varies by ACA plan. Pediatric dental coverage is included as an essential health benefit, and there are limits on how much families pay out of pocket for covered care. |
| Child out-of-pocket limit | For more details about out-of-pocket limits check the plan brochures linked below. |
Marketplace dental insurance plans in Texas at a glance¹
Choose what works for you. Whether you’re looking for coverage that helps keep you healthy with preventive care or protection for more extensive dental services, there’s a plan designed to fit your needs.
What ACA dental plan is best for you in Texas: DPO or DHMO?
Delta Dental offers DPO plans and DHMO plans through HealthCare.gov in TX.
- With a DPO plan, you can visit any licensed dentist and pay less when you stay in the network. Referrals are not required to see a specialist. A DPO plan tends to work well if you already have a dentist you want to keep or prefer flexibility.
- DHMO plans typically have lower monthly premiums, but you select a skilled primary care dentist from our network. Your primary care dentist will provide most of your treatment and coordinate any necessary specialist referrals. A DHMO plan can be a better fit when keeping the monthly premium low is the priority.
See the in-network plan comparison table below for our specific marketplace dental insurance plans in Texas.
| DPO Plans | DHMO Plans | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benefit category | Adult Basic | Adult Preferred | Adult Preventive | Adult Basic | Adult Preferred |
| Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays) | Covered at no cost | Covered at no cost | Covered at no cost | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $15 | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $5 |
| Basic services (fillings, tooth removal) | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 80% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $50 | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $30 |
| Major services (root canals, crowns, implants) | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $390 | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $240 |
| Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services) | $50 | $50 | $50 | None | None |
| Annual maximum | None | None | None | None | None |
| Waiting period | None | None | None | None | None |
| Network rules | Pick from our large network of DPO dentists | Pick from our large network of DPO dentists | Pick from our large network of DPO dentists | Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist | Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist |
| How you pay | Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest | Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest | Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest | Fixed copayments $ amounts | Fixed copayments $ amounts |
Adult Basic DPO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered at no cost
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
$50
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Pick from our large network of PPO dentists
How you pay
Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest
Adult Preferred DPO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered at no cost
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered at 80% after annual deductible is met
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
$40
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Pick from our large network of PPO dentists
How you pay
Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest
Adult Preventive DPO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered at no cost
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
$50
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Pick from our large network of PPO dentists
How you pay
Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest
Adult Basic DHMO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $15
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $50
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $390
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
None
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist
How you pay
Fixed copayments $ amounts
Adult Preferred DHMO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $5
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $30
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $240
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
None
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist
How you pay
Fixed copayments $ amounts
| DPO Plans | DHMO Plans | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benefit category | Pediatric Basic | Pediatric Preferred | Pediatric Preventive | Pediatric Basic | Pediatric Preferred |
| Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays) | Covered at no cost | Covered at no cost | Covered at no cost | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $15 | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $5 |
| Basic services (fillings, tooth removal) | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 80% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $50 | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $30 |
| Major services (root canals, crowns, implants) | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $350 | Covered with fixed copayments starting at $240 |
| Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services) | $50 | $40 | $50 | None | None |
| Annual maximum | None | None | None | None | None |
| Waiting period | None | None | None | None | None |
| Network rules | Pick from our large network of DPO dentists | Pick from our large network of DPO dentists | Pick from our large network of DPO dentists | Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist | Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist |
| How you pay | Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest | Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest | Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest | Fixed copayments $ amounts | Fixed copayments $ amounts |
Pediatric Basic DPO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered at no cost
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
$50
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Pick from our large network of DPO dentists
How you pay
Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest
Pediatric Preferred DPO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered at no cost
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered at 80% after annual deductible is met
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
$40
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Pick from our large network of DPO dentists
How you pay
Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest
Pediatric Preventive DPO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered at no cost
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered at 50% after annual deductible is met
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
$50
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Pick from our large network of DPO dentists
How you pay
Plan pays a % coinsurance (e.g., 80%), you pay the rest
Pediatric Basic DHMO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $15
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $50
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $350
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
None
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist
How you pay
Fixed copayments $ amounts
Pediatric Preferred DHMO
Preventive services (cleanings, oral exams, x-rays)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $5
Basic services (fillings, tooth removal)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $30
Major services (root canals, crowns, implants)
Covered with fixed copayments starting at $240
Annual deductible (waived for diagnostic and preventive services)
None
Annual maximum
None
Waiting period
None
Network rules
Must choose a DeltaCare® USA dentist
How you pay
Fixed copayments $ amounts
Network availability may vary by zip code.
*For plan-specific details like basic services, major services (root canals, crowns, implants, orthodontics) and waiting periods² for both adults and children, explore plan brochures for Texas.
Plan brochures (PDFs)
DPO Plans for Families - Basic
DPO Plans for Families - Preferred
DPO Plans for Families - Preventive
DHMO Plans for Families - Basic
DHMO Plans for Families - Preferred
The family plan brochures include both adult and pediatric benefits.
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When to enroll in an exchange marketplace dental plan
You can sign up for a Marketplace dental plan during the yearly Open Enrollment period. In Texas, Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027. To have coverage start on January 1, 2027, you must enroll by December 15, 2026.
You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a qualifying life event, such as getting married, having a baby or losing other health or dental coverage.Enrollment dates and rules vary by state and individual circumstances. Visit HealthCare.gov to check enrollment deadlines and options available in your area.
How to find your ACA dental coverage in Texas
- Shop for dental plans in Texas at HealthCare.gov. Note that most exchanges require you to enroll in a medical plan before you can get a dental plan.
- Check your timeline to make sure you enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period.
- Get additional questions answered by reaching out to a customer service representative at HealthCare.gov.
Looking for coverage outside of Texas?
Find plans by state.
Are you a business owner?
Learn more about plans for small businesses.
Connect with a trusted dentist.
Yours may already be in our network!
Have questions about our ACA dental insurance plans in Texas? We have answers.
Coverage depends on the plan and, for children, whether the procedure is medically necessary. Pediatric dental coverage through HealthCare.gov must include basic and major services for children under 19, but cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening typically aren't covered, and orthodontia (braces) is usually covered only when medically necessary rather than for cosmetic straightening.
Most Marketplace dental plans available in Texas through HealthCare.gov do not cover dental implants. These plans usually help pay for services like cleanings, fillings, crowns and tooth extractions and don't have waiting periods for preventive care.
If you need to replace a missing tooth, some plans may cover dentures or bridges. Check each plan's coverage details before you enroll.
People who are eligible to enroll through their state's Health Insurance Marketplace can enroll in an ACA Marketplace dental plan through HealthCare.gov. Eligibility is based on where you live and other factors.
No. The ACA Marketplace isn't just for low-income families. Anyone in Texas who meets eligibility requirements can shop for health and dental coverage through the Marketplace, regardless of income. If you qualify, you may also be eligible for financial assistance to help lower your costs.
It's a good option if you're:
- Self-employed
- An independent contractor or a gig worker
- Work part-time or for an employer that doesn't offer health benefits
- Are an early retiree not yet eligible for Medicare
- Want an alternative to a pricey employer-sponsored plan
No. In Texas, Marketplace rules require you to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) through HealthCare.gov before you can buy a stand-alone dental plan.
Check out our Find a dentist tool to search for dentists in your area. Select the network for your preferred plan: either Delta Dental PPO™ or DeltaCare USA. You’ll likely save the most if you choose a DPO dentist from the Delta Dental PPO™ network for DPO plan and the DeltaCare USA network for the DeltaCare USA (DHMO) plan.
You can also search by dentist or practice name, specialty, languages spoken, gender, office hours and which dentists are accepting new patients.
ACA Marketplace dental insurance in Texas can help lower the cost of dental care by covering services such as cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns, root canals and tooth extractions. There are no waiting periods for preventive care. Coverage, costs and benefits vary by plan. Compare plans through your state's Health Insurance Marketplace or HealthCare.gov to find the option that best meets your needs.
¹This benefit information is only a summary and not intended or designed to replace or serve as the plan policy. Limitations may apply for some benefits; some services may be excluded from the plan.
²Limitations and exclusions apply. Please see your plan booklet or policy for a complete description of plan benefits, limitations and exclusions.
Delta Dental PPO is underwritten by Delta Dental Insurance Company in AL, DC, FL, GA, LA, MS, MT, NV and UT and by not-for-profit dental service companies in these states: CA - Delta Dental of California; PA, MD - Delta Dental of Pennsylvania; NY - Delta Dental of New York; DE - Delta Dental of Delaware; WV - Delta Dental of West Virginia. In Texas, Delta Dental Insurance Company provides a Dental Provider Organization (DPO) plan.
DeltaCare USA is underwritten in these states by these entities: CA - Delta Dental of California; DC, FL - Delta Dental Insurance Company; MD, TX - Alpha Dental Programs, Inc.; NV - Alpha Dental of Nevada, Inc.; UT - Alpha Dental of Utah, Inc.; NY - Delta Dental of New York; PA - Delta Dental of Pennsylvania. Delta Dental Insurance Company acts as the DeltaCare USA administrator in all these states. These companies are financially responsible for their own products. The plan is a dental HMO in CA and TX. You may view the DDIC Network Access Plan, as required by the Health Benefit Plan Network Access and Adequacy Act, online at deltadentalins.com. You may also contact us by calling 800-422-4234 to request a copy.
Delta Dental is a registered mark of Delta Dental Plans Association.