Think your child’s dental insurance is only good for their routine checkups? You’ll be happy to learn that the benefits extend far beyond these biannual visits. In fact, they can be a valuable tool for protecting your child’s smile and reducing out-of-pocket costs. Whether it’s preventive or restorative treatment they need, learn how to optimize their dental insurance before the end of the year.
Why Should You Get Dental Insurance For Your Child?
Children’s teeth and gums need just as much care as adults. Cavities remain the most common dental problem, especially among children, because they have limited dexterity when learning to brush and floss. Research shows that by the age of 5, more than 20% of all children experience cavities. Without regular dental care, these problems can continue into adulthood.
Dental insurance can cover your child’s oral healthcare needs and save you money now and in the future.
What Kind of Coverage Do Children Receive?
Dental insurance isn’t just for adults; children benefit too, so each time you take them to the dentist for preventive or restorative care, you can expect to save. Most plans cover a variety of services, including routine cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, crowns, simple extractions, and more complex oral surgery.
Emergency dental care is also likely to be included, along with fluoride treatment and dental sealants.
How Can You Maximize Your Child’s Dental Benefits?
If you like the idea of saving money when bringing your child in for a dental visit, here are a few ways to maximize their benefits before the end of the year:
- Preventive Care: Make sure they see their pediatric dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. These visits are typically covered at 100% and keep your child from experiencing prolonged issues and pain.
- Get Restorative Treatment: If your child’s dentist recommends a filling or crown, don’t wait until next year to schedule their appointment. Get it done now, especially if you’ve already met your deductible. This means the insurance company will pay more for treatment, potentially saving you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
- Use Available Annual Maximum Funds: If you want to better protect your child’s teeth, ask about additional services. This ensures you use your annual maximum funds so they don’t go back to your dental insurance carrier at the end of the year.
Remember, most plans are good from January to December, so benefits are unlikely to roll over. Don’t let these valuable funds go to waste; use them to improve your child’s oral health.
The more you understand your child’s benefits, the better you can maximize their coverage and reduce unexpected expenses, all while keeping their smile healthy and confident into the next year!
About the Author
Dr. Layne Benzley is a board-certified pediatric dentist who earned his dental degree from the University of Iowa. As an in-network provider for most PPO plans, he also accepts Medicaid and works closely with patients to lower out-of-pocket expenses. If you want to learn how to maximize your child’s benefits and improve their oral health, contact us at (303) 660-5373 to schedule an appointment.