The Art of PPO Fee Negotiation

Why do so many dental practices accept low PPO reimbursements as if they have no other choice? In this episode of the Insurance Untangled Podcast, host Manjali Kulathunga sits down with Benjamin Tuinei, President of Veritas Dental Resources, to discuss one of the most frustrating and financially important challenges dental practices face today: PPO fee negotiation. Ben explains why PPO fees are not always as fixed as many practice owners believe, and how that mindset can quietly cost practices thousands in lost revenue, unnecessary write-offs, and reduced profitability. The conversation explores where reimbursement opportunities are often hiding, why many practices miss them, and how the right negotiation strategy can help dental teams increase revenue without simply working harder or adding more production. Ben also breaks down common "insurance games" that can lead to unnecessary income loss, confusing contract terms, credentialing issues, and payer communication challenges that leave practice owners feeling overwhelmed. Whether you are a solo practice owner, managing a growing team, or trying to reduce your dependence on PPOs, this episode offers practical insight into how to negotiate smarter, protect profitability, and take back more control over the revenue your practice has already earned. Topics discussed include: • Why PPO fee negotiation matters for dental practice profitability • The mindset shift practice owners need around PPO reimbursements • Where hidden reimbursement opportunities are often found • Why many practices leave money on the table without realizing it • Common insurance tactics that increase write-offs and reduce income • How contract and credentialing issues can affect revenue • First steps practices can take to negotiate from a stronger position • Why PPO strategy is a leadership and sustainability issue • How better fees and stronger systems can protect long-term practice health Connect with Benjamin Tuinei: President, Veritas Dental Resources Insurance Untangled is dedicated to helping dental practice owners navigate growth, operations, insurance, billing, leadership, marketing, and profitability through conversations with industry experts and successful practice leaders.