If you’re trying to figure out how much Principal dental insurance covers, you’re not alone. Dental care can be expensive, and knowing exactly what your plan helps pay for can save you a lot of money and stress. Principal is one of the well-known names in the insurance world, offering plans that cover everything from basic cleanings to major restorative work like crowns and dentures. But like most dental insurance policies, the coverage depends on the specific plan you choose and the type of dental work you need.
This article breaks everything down in plain English so you can understand how much Principal dental insurance actually covers, what’s included, what isn’t, and how to make the most out of your benefits.
Understanding How Much Principal Dental Insurance Covers
In general, Principal dental insurance follows a standard coverage structure known as the 100-80-50 rule. That means:
- 100% coverage for preventive services
- 80% coverage for basic dental procedures
- 50% coverage for major dental work
However, your specific plan may vary. Some plans may have waiting periods before major services kick in, while others may include additional benefits such as orthodontic coverage for kids or adults.
To understand exactly how much your plan covers, you’ll want to review your summary of benefits, which outlines coverage percentages, annual maximums, and deductible amounts.
What Preventive Dental Services Principal Covers
Preventive care is where Principal dental insurance really shines. Most Principal plans pay 100% of preventive services, meaning you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket as long as you stay within the plan’s network.
Preventive services typically include:
- Routine cleanings (twice per year)
- Oral exams
- X-rays
- Fluoride treatments
- Sealants for children
Principal emphasizes preventive care because catching dental issues early helps avoid expensive treatments later on. Regular checkups can also help you maintain your benefits more effectively since preventive visits usually don’t count toward your annual maximum.
How Much Principal Dental Insurance Covers for Basic Services
When it comes to basic dental services, Principal usually covers about 70% to 80% of the cost after your deductible is met. Basic services generally include things like:
- Fillings for cavities
- Simple tooth extractions
- Periodontal (gum) treatments
- Emergency dental care
Let’s say your dental filling costs $200 and your plan covers 80% — you’d only pay $40 out of pocket once your deductible has been met.
If you visit an in-network dentist, you’ll likely pay less because Principal negotiates discounted rates with participating providers. Out-of-network dentists can charge more, leaving you to pay the difference.
How Much Principal Dental Insurance Covers for Major Dental Work
Major dental services are where many people feel the pinch, and Principal dental insurance typically covers around 50% of these costs. Major procedures include:
- Dental crowns
- Bridges
- Root canals
- Dentures and partial dentures
- Implants (in some plans)
For example, if you need a crown that costs $1,200 and your plan covers 50%, you’ll owe $600 out of pocket. However, before scheduling major work, it’s smart to have your dentist submit a pre-treatment estimate to Principal. This gives you a written breakdown of what your insurance will cover and how much you’ll pay.
Annual Maximums and Deductibles with Principal Dental Insurance
Every Principal dental insurance plan comes with an annual maximum — the highest amount the plan will pay for covered services each year. Typical annual maximums range between $1,000 and $2,000.
Once your insurance reaches that limit, you’ll be responsible for paying any additional dental expenses for the rest of the year. Preventive care, however, often doesn’t count toward that maximum, so you can still get your cleanings without worrying about hitting your limit too early.
Deductibles for Principal dental plans are usually modest, typically between $25 and $100 per person per year. After meeting your deductible, your coverage percentages (100%, 80%, 50%) begin to apply.
Does Principal Dental Insurance Cover Orthodontics?
Some Principal dental insurance plans do cover orthodontic care — but it depends on the plan. Many employer-based plans include orthodontic benefits for children under 19, covering a portion of braces or aligner treatment.
If orthodontic coverage is included, Principal typically pays around 50% of the cost, up to a lifetime maximum (often $1,000–$2,000 per person).
Adult orthodontic coverage isn’t as common, but it’s worth asking your HR department or checking your plan details if you’re interested in Invisalign or braces as an adult.
Does Principal Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular, but coverage varies. Some Principal dental insurance plans now include implants under major services, while others may exclude them or offer partial reimbursement.
If implants are covered, expect Principal to pay about 50% of the cost, similar to other major dental work. However, since implants can cost $3,000 or more per tooth, that still means you’ll pay a significant portion yourself.
Always confirm implant coverage before beginning treatment to avoid surprise bills.
Waiting Periods for Principal Dental Insurance Coverage
If you just signed up for Principal dental insurance, there may be waiting periods before certain services are covered.
Typically:
- Preventive care has no waiting period, so you can start getting cleanings and exams right away.
- Basic services might have a 3 to 6-month waiting period.
- Major services often have a 12-month waiting period before coverage begins.
These waiting periods help keep premiums affordable, but they’re important to know if you plan to schedule dental work soon after enrolling.
How to Maximize Your Principal Dental Insurance Benefits
To get the most value from your Principal dental insurance, a little planning goes a long way.
First, schedule your preventive visits every six months — they’re covered 100%, and they help you avoid bigger bills down the line.
Second, always confirm your dentist is in-network with Principal. Out-of-network care can cost much more.
Third, if you need multiple major procedures, try spreading them across two plan years to take advantage of your annual maximum twice. For example, get one crown in December and another in January.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for a pre-treatment estimate. This gives you clear insight into what Principal will cover and prevents unexpected costs.
Final Thoughts: How Much Does Principal Dental Insurance Cover?
So, how much does Principal dental insurance cover? The short answer is: a lot, especially for preventive and basic care. You can expect 100% coverage for cleanings and exams, 80% coverage for fillings and extractions, and 50% coverage for crowns and dentures.
While out-of-pocket costs still apply, having Principal dental insurance can cut your dental bills in half — or more — depending on your plan. The key is to understand your benefits, stay in-network, and plan major treatments wisely to get the most from your annual coverage.
If you’re thinking about enrolling in a dental plan or comparing your current coverage, Principal offers flexible options that fit different budgets and needs, helping you protect both your smile and your wallet.