As the title implies, children can be covered by dental insurance, too. But they tend to have different oral needs than adults, so how can you maximize their benefits? And how does a pediatric dental insurance plan work, anyway?
These are all fair questions to ask – after all, it’s not likely something you were thinking about when you held your little one in your arms for the first time! Don’t worry, that’s what posts like this one are for. Keep reading, and you’ll learn what you need to know.
“Use It or Lose It” Still Applies
The very first thing that’s important to know for all dental insurance plans is that the benefits don’t roll over into the next year. If your child hasn’t had two dental checkups and cleanings by January 01, they won’t be covered for four checkups and cleanings, for example. And if their care expenses haven’t met the deductible, their progress towards it will start from scratch.
Basically, it’s best to take advantage of any services that are fully covered and try to hit the deductible earlier in the year.
Do I Have Pediatric Dental Insurance?
It’s possible! Many policies have family options that include coverage for minors. If you’re unsure about this, contact your insurance representative or, if you receive dental insurance through your company, your company’s HR department. They’ll have the details of your plan or at least be able to point to someone who does!
What Does Pediatric Dental Insurance Cover?
Dental insurance coverage for your child is going to look fairly similar to your own. For example, biannual preventative care appointments like checkups and cleanings are 100% covered by most plans.
Two additional preventative care treatments worth mentioning, though, are fluoride varnishes and dental sealants. These are typically administered to kids because they increase dental protection and help prevent cavities, so they’re worth considering!
Benefits of Early Dental Insurance Coverage
You might be wondering why your child needs dental insurance coverage in the first place. There are actually many reasons, ranging from saving you money in the case of rough housing accidents to making sure their teeth develop properly.
But perhaps the biggest reason is that the most effective preventative care measures start young. By taking your child to two free dental checkups and cleanings per year, you significantly reduce their risk of cavities and promote good oral habits. It’s a win-win scenario!
About the Author
Dr. José Garcia is and active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He’s always had a passion for providing quality services for the community and is happy that he can do so through pediatric dentistry. He’ll help your little one smile at the dentist’s office, and when needed, he and his team will help you navigate dental insurance benefits! If you have any questions or concerns about pediatric dental insurance, call his office at 301-871-8880.