Does your dental insurance plan cover your child’s oral health? Are you using it to ensure the health and longevity of your little one’s teeth and gums? If not, it’s time to start! Not only will using these benefits safeguard their smile throughout the year, but you’ll also enjoy greater savings each time they visit the dentist. Read on to learn how you can maximize your plan so that your child can smile comfortably and confidently day after day.
Make Sure Your Child Sees the Dentist Every Six Months
Most dental insurance plans offer coverage for preventive care. This means that your child’s six-month dental checkups and teeth cleanings are likely to be partially or fully covered (80-100%). With these regular visits to the dentist, the team can examine and identify any potential problems, like dental decay, cavities, and gum disease, as well as monitor any changes in your child’s bite.
Doing so will reduce their risk of needing restorative care later on as well as give you greater peace of mind (and more money in your wallet).
Don’t Delay Should More Advanced Treatment Be Required
If your child’s pediatric dentist discovers a cavity, crack, or serious infection that requires restorative treatment, do not wait to seek more advanced care. The reason is that an annual deductible must be met each year before the insurance company will pay more for eligible services.
If you decide to put off your child’s necessary treatment, you will not only have to meet your deductible again next year before you can expect additional savings, but your child’s oral health will remain at risk of further damage.
Seek Additional Preventive Services for Added Protection
As part of the emphasis dental insurance companies place on prevention, you’ll find it is in your best interest (as well as your child’s) to inquire about additional services that can better protect against cavities and other similar issues.
Dental sealants, fluoride treatment, and X-rays are oftentimes covered by dental insurance at 80-100%, just like regular checkups and cleanings. These solutions will provide another layer of protection so that your child is less likely to need a dental filling, crown, pulp therapy, or tooth extraction later on.
You’ll need to remember that your dental insurance benefits expire at the end of the year, so getting the most out of your plan before January 1 is important. If you have questions about how you can do this, don’t hesitate to ask your child’s pediatric dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Layne Benzley completed his pediatric dental specialty certificate from the Eastman Dental Center at the University of Rochester and is now a board-certified pediatric dentist. Offering high-quality dental care to young smiles for the past 10+ years, he and his team at Castle Rock Smiles strive to keep young grins healthy and happy year-round. As an in-network dentist who partners with many different insurance companies, he offers superior affordability so that all families can remain within their budget. If you have questions about your dental insurance and how you can maximize your available benefits, contact us at (303) 660-5373.