Check out the new TRICARE Dental Program premiums starting March 1 > TRICARE Newsroom > TRICARE News

Military families and veterans utilizing the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) should be aware of upcoming premium changes. New rates will take effect on March 1, 2026, and remain in place through February 28, 2027. These adjustments impact beneficiaries across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Understanding the TRICARE Dental Program

According to Douglas Elsesser, a program analyst with the TRICARE Health Plan, “TDP is a voluntary dental program available to eligible TRICARE beneficiaries.” The program, administered through United Concordia, provides access to a broad network of dental providers. TDP is available to active duty family members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their eligible families.

Did You Know? The TRICARE Dental Program Handbook specifies that TDP operates on a pay-ahead basis, meaning your February payment will cover your March dental benefits.

Factors Influencing Premium Costs

The TDP premium rate is not uniform. It varies based on three key factors: the sponsor’s military status, their pay grade, and the type of enrollment selected. Enrollment options include coverage for the sponsor only, a single family member, or the entire family.

Premium Rates for 2026-2027

Here’s a breakdown of the upcoming premium rates, effective March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027:

Active Duty E-4 and Below

Single (one family member, not the sponsor): $8.79
Family (more than one family member, not the sponsor): $22.85

Active Duty E-5 and Above

Single: $11.72
Family: $30.47

Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve (Mobilization)

Sponsor only: E-4 and below: $8.79; E-5 and above: $11.72
Single: $29.30
Family: $76.18
Sponsor and family: E-4 and below: $84.97; E-5 and above: $87.90

Individual Ready Reserve (Non-Mobilization)

Sponsor only: $29.30
Single: $29.30
Family: $76.18
Sponsor and family: $105.48

Beneficiaries who are survivors will continue to have no TDP premium payments.

Expert Insight: The TDP’s structure, with rates tied to military status and pay grade, reflects an effort to balance access to dental care with cost-sharing based on income and service commitment.

Finding a Dentist and Accessing Support

United Concordia offers several resources to help beneficiaries find in-network dentists. The Find a Dentist Tool allows users to search by city, state, and ZIP code. Customer service representatives are also available to assist. For those located in the continental U.S., call 844-653-4061. Overseas beneficiaries can access a list of TRICARE OCONUS Preferred Dentists and reach United Concordia at 844-653-4060.

It’s important to remember that dental coverage is separate from medical coverage under TRICARE. Enrollment is required to receive dental benefits, and sponsors must have at least one year of military service remaining to be eligible. Those ineligible for TDP may explore options through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TDP enrollment automatic?

No, TDP is a voluntary program. You must actively enroll to receive dental benefits.

When will the new premium rates take effect?

The new premium rates will be in effect from March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027. You will begin paying the new rates with your February payment for March coverage.

Where can I find a list of in-network dentists?

You can use the Find a Dentist Tool on the United Concordia website or call their customer service line for assistance.

Considering these upcoming changes, how will you ensure your family’s dental coverage remains uninterrupted?