How to Enroll in Dental Coverage through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange

Through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange—also known as WAHBE—you can access a variety of dental plans that fit your needs. This guide walks you through how to use the Washington Healthplanfinder™ to find and enroll in dental benefits with Delta Dental of Washington during open enrollment.

What and When Is the Open Enrollment Period for the Washington Health Benefit Exchange?

Open enrollment is the annual period when you can sign up for, renew, or make changes to your healthcare coverage for the coming year if you plan to be covered through Washington’s state benefit marketplace, a provision of the Affordable Care Act that provides a marketplace for Washington dental and health coverage for individuals and families in Washington State.

For 2026 coverage, the open enrollment period for the Washington Health Benefit Exchange runs from November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026.

During this time, eligible Washington residents can explore health and dental coverage options through the Washington Healthplanfinder™. After January 15, you can only make changes if you experience a qualifying life event—like marriage, a job change, or the birth of a child.

What’s New for 2026 Open Enrollment?

Before diving into how to enroll, here are the key updates Washington residents should know this year:

• Premiums have increased slightly for the Washington Family and Washington Kids Plan
• WAHBE Pediatric out-of-pocket maximums have risen to $450 per child / $900 per family

Why Dental Coverage Matters

Your oral health is directly connected to your overall health. Research has linked poor oral hygiene to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications. Regular dental care not only helps prevent painful and costly problems, but also supports a higher quality of life.

Most medical insurance plans don’t automatically include dental coverage, which makes it important to add a standalone dental plan. That’s where Delta Dental of Washington comes in—offering comprehensive, flexible options to fit your family and your budget.

How to Find and Enroll in Delta Dental of Washington Plans through WAHBE

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enroll in Delta Dental of Washington benefits through the Washington Health Benefits Exchange:

• Step 1: Visit the Washington Healthplanfinder™ Website

  Go to wahealthplanfinder.org. This is where you’ll explore and compare medical and dental coverage.

• Step 2: Create a Washington Healthplanfinder™ Account or Log In

  If you’re a first-time user, create an account. You’ll be prompted to provide household and income information to see which plans you qualify for.

• Step 3: Explore Dental Options

  Once your profile is set up, filter for dental plans. Delta Dental of Washington offers two major plan types through the Exchange:

  • Delta Dental Individual and Family - Washington Family Plan:
    For adults ages 19+ or adults with children ages 0–18
  • Delta Dental Individual and Family - Washington Kids Plan:
    Pediatric dental coverage for children through age 18, including medically necessary orthodontics

  Both plans include preventive care like cleanings and exams, plus restorative services like fillings.

• Step 4: Compare Plans

  When comparing plans, review:

  • Monthly premiums
  • Annual deductibles
  • Coverage limits
  • Network size

  Delta Dental of Washington has the largest dentist network in the state, giving you easy access to care wherever you live.

• Step 5: Enroll in a Plan

  Once you’ve chosen your plan, complete enrollment through Healthplanfinder. You can set up payments and finalize your coverage all in one place.

• Step 6: Activate Your My.DeltaDentalCoversMe.com Online Account

  Create an online account at my.deltadentalcoversme.com/sign-in to manage benefits, check claims, and find network providers.

• Step 7: Pay Your Premiums

  Timely premium payments are essential to keep your coverage active.

• Step 8: Use Your Benefits

  Schedule preventive visits, complete necessary treatments, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having coverage.

Why Choose Delta Dental of Washington?

Delta Dental of Washington is the state’s leading provider of dental health benefits, known for:

• Extensive Provider Network: The largest network of dentists in Washington State, so you can always find a dentist near you.
• Affordable Options: Plans designed for a range of budgets and coverage needs
• Comprehensive Coverage: Preventive care at little or no cost, plus restorative and orthodontic options where orthodontic treatments are medically necessary.

Take the First Step Toward Better Oral Health

Dental health is a key part of your overall well-being. By enrolling in a Delta Dental of Washington plan during the 2025/2026 open enrollment period, you’re investing in your long-term health and protecting your smile for the year ahead.

Washington Health Benefit Exchange Plans

The Washington Health Benefit Exchange (WAHBE) provides a marketplace for Affordable Care Act health and dental insurance coverage for individuals and families in Washington State. Delta Dental of Washington is proud to partner with WAHBE in providing dental benefit plans for qualifying families and kids.