Option 2 is a managed care option that allows you to choose a dentist from a network. You can also choose a dentist who is not in the network; however, benefits are reduced. Using a dentist who is a member of MetLife's provider network, the Preferred Dentist Program (PDP), will result in more benefits for you because those dentists have agreed to limit the fees they charge for services you receive. You also receive full coverage for preventive care and basic services, lower out-of-pocket expenses for major and orthodontic services, and the convenience of obtaining benefits without submitting any claim forms.

If you receive services from an out-of-network dentist, the cost of your services will be based on a percentage of your graphic area's usual and customary charge for the services rendered. You may have out-of-pocket expenses, and you may be required to submit a claim form. Claim procedures apply as described in Filing and Payment of a Claim.

Option 2 in-network services offer higher benefits than Option 1 or Option 2 out-of-network. Option 2 requires a monthly contribution from you.

About the Providers in Option 2
Option 2 is a preferred provider organization (PPO). You should choose a dentist who is a member of the MetLife dental network to realize the maximum benefits from the plan. The dentist you choose can join or separate from the network at any time.

In addition, there are a limited number of dentists within some specialty practices who participate in the Preferred Dentist Program. For some specialties, particularly endodontists or pediodontists, there are no or few preferred dentists in certain locations. Before you enroll, check with your dentist to see if he or she is a plan provider.

Option 2 Provider List
To obtain a list of network providers near you, call the MetLife Customer Service line, 1-800-474-7371, follow the series of prompts, and request a provider directory for the PDP. You can also obtain a list from the MetLife site at http://www.metlife.com/Dental/Find/find.html. This Web address is case-sensitive. When typing it into your browser, you must type the capital letters. Click the link below for a map showing the number of providers in select SE Michigan counties.

Provider Map (PDF)

University of Michigan School of Dentistry
If you intend to receive services from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, call the School of Dentistry's Patient Business Office at 734-647-8383. The School of Dentistry's Patient Business Office handles patient inquiries regarding accepted insurance programs and can verify if the services you may require will be provided by a graduate specialty program participating in the MetLife Preferred Dentist Program. The undergraduate student clinics do not participate in the MetLife Preferred Dentist Program. Dental Faculty Associates participation in the MetLife Preferred Dentist Program is limited to providers at the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery/Hospital Dentistry Clinic at University Hospital.

Would Your Dentist Like to Join the PDP?
If your dentist does not currently participate in MetLife's PDP, but is interested in applying, please have him or her send an email to dentalinfo@metlifeservice.com. Your dentist will be sent an information packet and application for membership.