When the military ended the TRICARE Retiree Dental Program in 2018, retirees were moved to the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), overseen by the U.S.
Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This voluntary, enrollee-pay-all program allows retirees and their families to choose from multiple private dental insurance providers.
For 2026, FEDVIP offers 11 dental carriers, though HealthPartners Dental Plan has exited the program. New participants must choose a replacement carrier during open enrollment, which runs from Nov. 10 to Dec. 8, 2025, with coverage beginning in 2026.
According to the Military Officers Association of America, average dental premiums will rise by 3.3% next year. Increases vary by plan, ranging from 0.6% to 11%.
2026 FEDVIP Dental Carriers
Aetna Dental
Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental
Delta Dental
Dominion National (regional)
EmblemHealth Dental (regional)
GEHA Connection Dental Federal
Humana (regional)
MetLife Federal Dental Plan
Triple-S Salud (regional)
United Concordia Dental
UnitedHealthcare Dental
Plans are available worldwide unless labeled as regional. Most carriers offer “standard” and “high” options, with the latter providing broader coverage at a higher monthly premium.
Understanding FEDVIP Plan Types
FEDVIP offers two main types of dental plans: HMO and PPO.
HMO plans list fixed copayments for each service, providing predictable out-of-pocket costs.
PPO plans reimburse a percentage of costs, leaving final expenses dependent on provider rates.
Choosing Between Standard and High Options
Members should select plans based on dental needs and budget. Those expecting major procedures—such as crowns or bridges—may benefit from high-option plans. Those needing mainly preventive care may find standard options more cost-effective.
Annual or lifetime coverage caps, particularly for orthodontics, should be reviewed to avoid unexpected expenses once limits are reached.
Network and Waiting Periods
Before enrolling, participants should confirm that their dentist is part of the carrier’s network. Some plans impose waiting periods for services such as orthodontic treatment, potentially delaying access to care.
Enrollment and Eligibility
Enrollment changes are allowed only during the annual open season or after a qualifying life event, such as marriage, moving, or losing other dental coverage.
Eligible individuals include:
Retired service members entitled to military retired pay
Retired reserve and Guard members, including “gray-area” retirees
Current spouses and dependent children up to age 22
Un-remarried surviving spouses and eligible family members of deceased service members
Medal of Honor recipients and their families
If an enrollee dies, dependents may continue their coverage.
With premium increases and carrier changes for 2026, military retirees are urged to carefully review their FEDVIP dental insurance options during the upcoming open season to ensure the best value and access to care.