Why Active PPO Fee Negotiations Are More Critical Than Ever for Dentists
The dental insurance landscape is shifting faster than ever—sometimes in ways that feel designed to trip up even the savviest practice owner. Over the past several years, we’ve seen a massive exodus of dentists going out of network. In response, insurance carriers have started playing their own game of chess: redesigning employer-sponsored plans, slashing out-of-network benefits, and even creating custom fee schedules for select employers that pay better than standard out-of-network rates—specifically to lure dentists back in-network.
This tug-of-war between providers and payers is exactly why you can’t afford to “set it and forget it” when it comes to your PPO contracts. Active, ongoing PPO fee negotiations are no longer optional—they’re a survival strategy.
Why PPO Plans Are Changing (and Why You Should Care)
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
Employers are pressuring insurance carriers to save costs by narrowing dental networks. Some plans now include an exclusive list of doctors who are allowed to see patients from certain employers. This approach isn't very popular, since most employers want a broad network of in-network doctors.
Carriers are reducing out-of-network benefits to push patients toward in-network providers.
Carriers are selectively increasing fee schedules for specific employer groups, hoping to entice doctors back in-network.
For dentists, it’s a confusing mess. You’re getting squeezed on fees, patients are being funneled away, and if you haven’t renegotiated recently, there’s a good chance you’re leaving money on the table.
Why Fee Negotiations Aren’t a One-Time Event
A common mistake we see: thinking once you’ve signed a PPO contract, you’re stuck with it. That’s just not true.
PPO fees are usually negotiable
Insurance companies tweak plan designs and contracts all the time, opening the door for new negotiations
Staying proactive means staying competitive—and protecting your margins
Why Professional Help Makes a Difference
Negotiating with insurance carriers isn’t like haggling at a garage sale. These are billion-dollar companies with departments built to protect their profits. Dentists and office managers often feel outmatched, simply because they don’t know what they’re allowed to ask for—or how.
That’s where Veritas Dental Resources comes in. As a leading PPO fee negotiation firm, we take the frustration off your plate. We know what to look for, where to push, and how to position your practice for better outcomes—without turning your schedule upside down.
What’s at Stake if You Don’t Act?
Losing patients as out-of-network benefits shrink
Leaving thousands on the table from outdated fee schedules
Falling behind competitors who are negotiating better rates
PPO contracts are no longer “set it and forget it.” They’re changing constantly. Your strategy should too.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
The insurance game isn’t going to get easier. But you can take control. Start by understanding the shifts, staying sharp, and getting help from the pros who’ve done this before.
Still in-network? Good. But it might be time to revisit those contracts before the next policy change catches you off guard.
Contact Veritas Dental Resources today for a complimentary consultation and see how much more your practice could be earning—without sacrificing your patients or your principles.
👉 Learn more at www.VeritasDentalResources.com
Benjamin Tuinei
Founder, Veritas Dental Resources, LLC
📞 888-808-4513
Services:
PPO Fee Negotiation · Insurance Fee Negotiation
Insurance Credentialing · Insurance Verifications
