MetLife is one of the most common dental plans we see, especially for people whose employer bundles dental with their other benefits. Both of our offices are in-network with MetLife, with one detail about plan names that I want you to know before you book.
Which MetLife plans we are in-network with
Kokopelli Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Ahwatukee and Kokopelli Dentistry of Chandler are both in-network with MetLife PDP Plus and with the MetLife Federal Dental plan.
Here is the detail. MetLife has an older network simply called PDP, without the Plus. We are not in-network for that one. Most MetLife members we see are on PDP Plus or Federal, so odds are good you are covered, but please look at your card or your benefits summary. If it says PDP Plus or Federal, you are in-network at either office. If it says PDP only, call us and we will explain your options honestly.
What being in-network with MetLife means for you
MetLife negotiates a fee for each procedure with in-network dentists. That negotiated fee is the most we can charge you for that procedure. MetLife pays its percentage of that fee, and you pay the remainder.
MetLife plans typically cover preventive care at a high percentage, basic restorative work like fillings at a middle percentage, and major work like crowns and implants at a lower percentage, after a deductible. Every employer buys a slightly different version, so we verify yours before your first visit rather than quoting averages.
The other thing in-network buys you is fewer surprises. We know MetLife's fee schedule, and we give you a written estimate before treatment that shows the fee, MetLife's expected share, and your share.
What your first visit looks like
Call the office you prefer with your MetLife member information. We verify your benefits ahead of time, so on the day you come in we already know what your plan covers for the exam, X-rays, and cleaning.
The visit itself is a full exam by Dr. Kaur or Dr. Thompson at Ahwatukee, or Dr. Kaur at Chandler, the X-rays we need to see between and below your teeth, and a cleaning with one of our hygienists when your gums are healthy enough for a regular cleaning. If your gums need a deep cleaning instead, we explain why, show you the estimate, and let you decide.
Tips for MetLife members
Ask about your plan year. Many MetLife plans run on the calendar year, but some employers use a different plan year. Your annual maximum resets on that date, and knowing it helps us plan larger treatment across two years when that saves you money.
Use the frequency limits you paid for. Most MetLife plans cover two cleanings a year and a set of bitewing X-rays once a year. Skipping them does not roll anything over.
Ask us for a pre-treatment estimate on crowns, implants, or anything major. MetLife will confirm in writing what they expect to pay.
If you are a federal employee or retiree on MetLife Federal, both offices are in-network, and we are used to that plan's paperwork.
Frequently asked questions
Do you accept individual MetLife plans, not through an employer?
If the plan uses the PDP Plus network, yes. Individual and retiree plans vary, so call us with your member ID and we will check.
My card says MetLife PDP. Can I still be seen?
Yes, but as an out-of-network patient. MetLife would still pay part of your claim, and we would give you an estimate first. Some patients switch to a PDP Plus plan at their next enrollment window, and then they are fully in-network with us.
Does MetLife cover Invisalign or clear aligners?
Some MetLife plans have orthodontic benefits for adults and children, with a lifetime maximum. Many do not. We check before you start. You can read about Invisalign in Ahwatukee and ClearCorrect in Chandler on our site.
Do you file the claims?
Yes, at both offices. You pay your estimated share at the visit and we handle the rest.
Next step
Ahwatukee, call Kokopelli Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at (480) 283-0733. Chandler, call Kokopelli Dentistry of Chandler at (480) 895-3252. Have your MetLife card nearby and we will take it from there.
Disclaimer: This article is general information from Dr. Harveer Kaur and is not a substitute for a dental exam, diagnosis, or treatment. Every mouth is different. If you have a concern about your teeth or gums, call our Ahwatukee office at (480) 283-0733 or our Chandler office at (480) 895-3252 and we will help you sort it out.
Dr. Harveer Kaur, DDS, BDS
Dr. Kaur is the founder of Kokopelli Dentistry, serving patients in Ahwatukee and Chandler, Arizona. She focuses on family and cosmetic dentistry.
Meet Dr. Kaur →