Choosing a dentist isn’t just about care, it’s about confidence. For most patients, knowing their provider is in network plays a decisive role in where they go and whether they follow through with treatment.
Humana research shows that most Americans prefer dental providers who are in network, though the strength of that preference varies by generation. Overall, 64%1 of respondents say they are more likely to choose an in-network dentist, which reinforces the role network participation plays in dental care selection.
That preference is highest among older adults. Seventy-six percent1 of the Silent Generation and 71%1 of baby boomers report favoring in-network dentists. The percentage declines among Generation X (65%1) and millennials (60%1), and it drops further among Generation Z (49%1).
These differences highlight how preferences shift by age, with older generations consistently showing a stronger inclination toward in-network care1. Across generations, however, a majority of respondents still report a preference for staying in network1.
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Reference
“Humana Dental Insurance,” Opinium Research, October 2024.
