Credentialing 101: How to Get Your Dental Practice In-Network with Major Insurers
Joining insurance networks is crucial for dental practices looking to expand their patient base and maximize revenue. However, the credentialing process can be complex, time-consuming, and frustrating without the right guidance In this guide, we’ll break down: ✔ Why credentialing matters ✔ Top dental insurers and their requirements ✔ Common challenges in the credentialing process ✔ How Remote Dental Billers simplifies credentialing
3/30/20252 min read
Why Dental Credentialing Matters
Being in-network with insurers helps your practice:
✅ Attract more patients (Many only visit in-network providers)
✅ Get paid faster (Direct contracts mean fewer delays)
✅ Reduce administrative hassles (Pre-negotiated fees and streamlined claims)
Without proper credentialing, you could be:
❌ Losing 30-50% of potential patients who prefer in-network care
❌ Facing claim rejections for out-of-network services
❌ Struggling with lower reimbursement rates
Top Dental Insurers & Their Credentialing Requirements
Each insurer has its own application process, fees, and timelines. Below are key details for major dental PPO networks:
1. Delta Dental
📌 Application Time: 60-90 days
📌 Requirements:
Active state dental license
DEA registration (if applicable)
Malpractice insurance (1M/1M/3M coverage common)
W-9 and NPI number
Proof of clean disciplinary record
💡 Tip: Some states have multiple Delta Dental plans (e.g., Delta Dental CA vs. Delta Dental TX).
2. Cigna Dental
📌 Application Time: 45-60 days
📌 Requirements:
Completed CAQH profile
Board certification (preferred but not always required)
Office must meet accessibility standards
No history of fraud or sanctions
3. MetLife Dental
📌 Application Time: 30-60 days
📌 Requirements:
Active license and malpractice insurance
Tax ID and NPI
Must accept electronic payments
4. Aetna Dental
📌 Application Time: 60-90 days
📌 Requirements:
CAQH ProView enrollment
Clean legal/disciplinary history
Office location compliance (e.g., ADA accessibility)
5. UnitedHealthcare Dental
📌 Application Time: 45-75 days
📌 Requirements:
Completed credentialing application
Malpractice coverage ($1M per claim minimum)
No pending legal actions
Common Credentialing Challenges (And How to Avoid Them)
Many dental practices struggle with:
❌ Long Processing Times (Some insurers take 3-6 months)
✅ Solution: Submit error-free applications with all documents upfront.
❌ Rejections Due to Missing Info (Even small errors cause delays)
✅ Solution: Double-check forms, licenses, and malpractice proof.
❌ Keeping Track of Renewals (Credentialing expires every 1-3 years)
✅ Solution: Set calendar reminders or let a service manage renewals.
How Remote Dental Billers Simplifies Credentialing
Navigating dental credentialing alone is stressful. Remote Dental Billers handles the entire process so you can focus on patients.
Our Credentialing Services Include:
✔ Application Preparation – We ensure all forms are 100% accurate to prevent rejections.
✔ Insurer Follow-Ups – We track submissions and push for faster approvals.
✔ CAQH Profile Management – We keep your details updated across all insurers.
✔ Renewal Reminders – Never miss a re-credentialing deadline.
💡 Case Study: One client got in-network with Delta Dental in 45 days (vs. the usual 90) because we optimized their paperwork.
Ready to Join Major Insurance Networks?
Don’t let credentialing delays cost you patients and revenue. Remote Dental Billers makes the process fast, easy, and stress-free.
📞 Call us at (760) 284-5402
📧 Email: info@remotedentalbillers.com
🌐 Visit: www.remotedentalbillers.com