Action against Delta Dental heats up across U.S.: What dentists should know

February 3, 2026
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QUICK SUMMARY: Two lawsuits are moving forward against Delta Dental: A class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of patients in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleges Delta Dental misrepresents out-of-network coverage. The second lawsuit concerns the ongoing antitrust litigation against Delta Dental, which is proceeding after an appeals court denied the plaintiff’s request for review of a decision rejecting class certification. Here’s what dentists should know about the two cases.

As part of CDA’s ongoing fight for dental plan reform, we share updates on emerging issues from trusted news sources. Keep pace with the latest lawsuits against Delta Dental and see opportunities to stay informed and involved.   

N.Y. lawsuit alleges Delta Dental misrepresents out-of-network coverage 

A class-action lawsuit that was filed Dec. 31, 2025, on behalf of patients in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York alleges that Delta Dental misrepresents out-of-network coverage to patients. The plaintiffs claim that Delta uses unfettered discretionary authority to determine reimbursements rather than honoring the stated 50%–100% coverage. The lawsuit also alleges that Delta does not share internal pricing with policyholders, hindering transparency and policyholders’ ability to determine the true costs of out-of-network care.  

Dentists should be prepared to answer patients’ questions regarding the litigation and can help connect those interested with the law firm involved in the class action suit.  

Appeals court denies review of Delta Dental class certification 

Last December, CDA shared that the court denied plaintiffs’ request for a review of the decision that rejected class certification in the ongoing antitrust litigation against Delta Dental.   

Without class certification, dentists may file individual lawsuits to pursue recovery from Delta. The statute of limitations is running, so individuals who wish to take legal action must act promptly. 

To do: CDA cannot offer legal advice to individual members. Dentists who wish to pursue a claim can consult their attorney or contact one of the law firms representing the plaintiffs in the litigation.  

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP 
191 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2700, Chicago, IL 60606 
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 312.705.7424 

Wollmuth Maher & Deutsch LLP 
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110 
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 212.556.0391 

CDA-convened workgroup addresses dental plan reform 

CDA’s new Future of Dentistry workgroup will address the issues shaping the profession, including dental plan reform and what meaningful coverage could look like for both providers and patients. 

Opportunities to get involved will include town hall meetings, focus groups and surveys. Dentists who are interested in participating can complete this interest form. Stay connected to updates in CDA communications and our Dental Plan Action Center.

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