Northwest Dental Benefits introduces new dental insurance option in Sandpoint Idaho

Bonner County officials are considering a new dental insurance option for employees, as Northwest Dental Benefits has recently entered the Idaho market. During a special meeting on July 15, 2025, representatives discussed the potential benefits of this new provider, which has established contracts with local dentists in Sandpoint.

The introduction of Northwest Dental Benefits comes as a response to the need for more flexible dental care options for county employees. Currently, many are enrolled in Willamette Dental, which operates on a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) model requiring visits to specific clinics. In contrast, Northwest Dental Benefits offers a more traditional insurance experience, allowing members to choose from a network of local dentists, enhancing accessibility and comfort.

While there is a slight increase in costs associated with Northwest Dental compared to Willamette, early feedback from groups that have transitioned to the new provider has been positive. Officials emphasized the importance of providing employees with choices, suggesting that both insurance options could be offered simultaneously, although this would effectively double the costs for the county.

The discussion highlighted the founder's commitment to improving member experience, which aligns with the county's goal of ensuring quality healthcare options for its workforce. As Bonner County moves forward, the decision on whether to adopt Northwest Dental Benefits alongside or in place of Willamette will be crucial in shaping the dental care landscape for employees. Further evaluations and discussions are expected as officials weigh the implications of this potential change.