Frequently Asked Questions

Why is HPSO changing our dental plan?

HPSO periodically reviews its benefit plans to insure that we are providing the best options at a reasonable price to our Nurses. MetLife is the leading group dental carrier and has worked with HPSO to provide plan options designed to meet our Nurses' needs.

Can I keep my current dental plan?

No, your current plan is being discontinued. To continue with dental coverage through HPSO, you must select one of the four new MetLife PDP plan options, and return the enrollment form to HPSO prior to May 1, 2011 to continue a dental coverage.

What do I need to do to sign up for one of the PDP options?

Enrollment for HPSO Nurses is easy. Simply print out the enrollment form and select the plan option you desire and return it to HPSO prior to May 1, 2011. All HPSO Nurses are guaranteed acceptance into these plans.

Who is a participating Preferred Dentist Program (PD) dentist?

A participating dentist is a general dentist or specialist who has agreed to accept MetLife's negotiated fees as payment in-full for services provided to plan participants. PDP fees typically range from 15-45%* below the average fees charged in a dentist's community for the same or substantially similar services.

How do I find a participating PDP dentist?

There are more than 145,000 participating PDP dentist locations nationwide, including over 35,000 specialist locations. To find out a list of participating PDP dentist click here or call 1-800-275-4638 to have a list faxed or mailed to you.

What services are covered by my plan?

All services defined under your group dental benefits plan are covered. Please review your MetLife Dental Plan Benefit summary to learn more.

Does the Preferred Dentist Program (PDP) offer any discounts on non-covered services?

MetLife's negotiated fees with PDP (in-network) dentists may extend to services not covered under your plan and services received after your plan maximum has been met, where permitted by applicable state law. If you receive services from a PDP dentist that is not covered under your plan or where the maximum has been met, in those states where permitted by law, you may only be responsible for the PDP (in-network) fee.

May I choose a non-participating dentist?

Yes. You are always free to select the dentist of your choice. However, if you choose a dentist who does not participate in the MetLife PDP, your out-of-pocket expenses may be more, since you will be responsible to pay for any difference between the dentist's fee and your plan's payment for the approved service. If you receive services from a participating PDP dentist, you are only responsible for the difference between the PDP in-network fee for the service provided and your plan's payment for the approved service. Please note: any plan deductibles must be met before benefits are paid.

Can my dentist apply for PDP participation?

Yes. If your current dentist does not participate in the PDP and you'd like to encourage him or her to apply, tell your dentist to visit www.metdental.com, or call 1-877-MET-DDS9 for an application. The website and phone number are designed for use by dental professionals only.

How are claims processed?

Dentists may submit your claims for you which means you have little or no paperwork. You can track your claims online and even receive e-mail alerts when a claim has been processed. If you need a claim form, click here or request one by calling 1-800-275-4638.

Can I find out what my out-of-pocket expenses will be before receiving a service?

Yes. MetLife recommends that you request a pre-treatment estimate for services in excess of $300. Simply have your dentist submit a request online at www.metdental.com or call 1-877-MET-DDS9. You and your dentist will receive a benefit estimate for most procedures while you're still in the office. Actual payments may vary depending upon plan maximums, deductibles, frequency limits and other conditions at time of payment.

Can MetLife help me find a dentist outside of the U.S. if I am traveling?

Yes. Through international dental travel assistance services** you can obtain a referral to a local dentist by calling +1-312-356-5970 (collect) when outside the U.S. to receive immediate care until you can see your dentist. Coverage will be considered under your out-of-network benefits.*** Please remember to hold on to all receipts to submit a dental claim.