Dental Plan

Can't find what you need?

Email: wellpower@smu.edu
Email: benefitsu@smu.edu
Call: 214-768-3311

Administered by BCBS of Texas
(877) 768-2005

All full-time and part-time faculty and staff are eligible to participate in the Dental Plan administered by BCBSTX. You have the opportunity to enroll yourself, your spouse, and eligible children. It is extremely important that you understand the eligibility criteria and enroll only those dependents that meet the following criteria.

  • Eligible children until 26th birthday (regardless of student status). "Children" are defined as your natural children, stepchildren, legally adopted children, and children under your legal guardianship.

The Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO) allows you to visit any dentist, without referrals, for all of your dental care. If you use a BlueCare® in-network dentist, you will generally pay less for your care. If you choose a dentist outside of the BlueCare® network, your share of costs will be higher and you may need to file your own claims. You will receive a BCBSTX ID Card, which you must present at the time you receive services. If you also enroll in the SMU Medical Plan, you will have one BCBSTX ID card which you will use for medical services, prescription medications, and dental services.

BlueCare® Freedom Dental

SMU's Dental Plan provides flexibility in selecting a dentist.

See an In-Network Dentist

BlueCare Dentist

  • Your out-of-pocket cost will generally be the least amount because BlueCare Dentists have contracted to accept a lower Allowable Amount as payment in full for Eligible Dental Expenses
  • You are not required to file claim forms
  • You are not balance billed for costs exceeding the BCBSTX Allowable Amount for BlueCare Dentists

DentaBlue Dentist

  • Your out-of-pocket cost may be greater because DentaBlue Dentists have contracted to accept a higher Allowable Amount as payment in full for Eligible Dental Expenses
  • You are not required to file claim forms
  • You are not balance billed for costs exceeding the BCBSTX Allowable Amount for DentaCare Dentists

 See an Out-of-Network Dentist

  • Your out-of-pocket cost may be greater because Out-of-Network Dentists have not entered into a contract with BCBSTX to accept Allowable Amount determination as payment in full for Eligible Dental Expenses
  • You are required to file claim forms
  • You are balance billed for costs exceeding the BCBSTX Allowable Amount

To Find an In-Network Dentist:

  • Visit the
  • Click "Find a Doctor"
  • Scroll past "Find a Doctor or Hospital" and click "Find a Dentist" (under More Searches)
  • Click "BlueCare Dental"
  • Enter your search criteria

Preventive Care

The Dental Plan covers 100% of the cost of dental exams and cleanings twice each year after you have met a $50 individual deductible for you and each of your enrolled dependents.

Other Services

The Plan will pay 80% for Basic Services and 50% for Major Services after a $75 individual/$225 family annual deductible.  Basic Services include simple extractions and stainless steel crowns.  Major Services include implants and bridges/dentures.

Please see the Dental Benefit Highlights for detailed information.

Dental Plan Resources