TRICARE Dental Premiums Set to Drop for Military Families
Starting in March, military families will benefit from reduced TRICARE dental premiums, with some active-duty households seeing a nearly one-third cut in their costs.
This significant shift follows the introduction of a new contract for the TRICARE Dental Program.
Active-duty families, especially those with multiple dependents, stand to gain the most from these changes.
For instance, the premium for families with several members will plunge by 29%—from $31.46 to $22.48—providing a savings of $8.98.
Notably, under the previous system, rates did not vary based on the military rank of the service member.
New Pricing Structure and Implementation
The new pricing structure takes effect on March 1, although families will notice the adjusted amounts in their February billing statements.
This is due to the billing system that requires payment in advance, where February’s bill covers March’s coverage.
The reductions are influenced by various factors, including a service member’s rank, enrollment type, and family status.
Premium reductions range from $0.57 to $8.98 compared to rates established in November, which also featured previous reductions.
Designed voluntarily for active-duty family members, as well as National Guard and Reserve members and their families, enrollment in the TRICARE Dental Program is always open to eligible individuals.
Service Co-Payments and Benefits
While premiums are decreasing, beneficiaries should remain aware that co-payments for specific services will still apply.
For example, basic restorative services will require a 20% co-payment.
However, beneficiaries will enjoy certain exemptions; diagnostic and preventive services will not have any co-pays, and there will be no annual deductible to meet.
The program has also enhanced access to dental care by expanding its network of providers.
Now, beneficiaries can easily find nearby dentists, including specialists.
A newly introduced feature allows participants to book dental appointments online for check-ups and other essential services.
United Concordia will continue to manage the TRICARE Dental Program, with the new rates remaining valid until February 28, 2026.
Updated Monthly Rates for the TRICARE Dental Program
- For active-duty families, E-4 and below:
- Sponsor only: Not applicable
- One family member: $8.65 (down from $12.10)
- Multiple family members: $22.48 (down from $31.46)
- For active-duty families, E-5 and above:
- Sponsor only: Not applicable
- One family member: $11.53 (down from $12.10)
- Multiple family members: $29.98 (down from $31.46)
- Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve (mobilization), E-4 and below:
- Sponsor only: $8.65 (down from $12.10)
- One family member: $28.82 (down from $30.25)
- Family: $74.94 (down from $78.64)
- Sponsor and family: $83.59 (down from $90.74)
- Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve (mobilization), E-5 and above:
- Sponsor only: $11.53 (down from $12.10)
- One family member: $28.82 (down from $30.25)
- Family: $74.94 (down from $78.64)
- Sponsor and family: $86.47 (down from $90.74)
- Individual Ready Reserve (non-mobilization):
- Sponsor only: $28.82 (down from $30.25)
- One family member: $28.82 (down from $30.25)
- Family: $74.94 (down from $78.64)
- Sponsor and family: $103.76 (down from $108.89)
Source: Militarytimes