Do you have a family dental insurance plan? You and your spouse may frequently use it to care for your own oral health, but you should also take steps to get the greatest value out of the coverage that is available to your child. How can you do that? This blog post explains what your child’s benefits may cover and how you can use them to keep your little one’s Smile healthy and happy.
Focus on Preventive Care
Similar to adult dental insurance, pediatric policies usually cover 100% of the cost of at least two preventive appointments each year. At these routine visits, your child’s dentist can inspect their teeth, check on the development of their jaw, and take X-rays to understand what is happening beneath their gumline. Regular dental cleanings can do much to prevent cavities.
If your child has not yet had their second cleaning and exam of 2024, now is the time to schedule is so they do not lose out on important routine care!
Find Out if Sealants and Fluoride Are Covered
It is common for pediatric dental policies to cover the cost of sealants and fluoride treatments. These services are especially critical for young ones because most kids have not yet mastered their oral hygiene routine. Fluoride can fortify their teeth and prevent cavities, whereas sealants can serve as a barrier that prevents the chewing surfaces of teeth from collecting harmful bacteria and food debris. Most dentists recommend that sealants be placed on all permanent teeth soon after they start erupting around age 6.
Book Restorative Care Right Away
According to one estimate from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, around 42% of kids ages 2 – 11 develop cavities in their baby teeth. If that ever happens to your child, insurance should help pay for treatment. It is standard for policies to cover up to 80% of the cost of minor restorative care, including fillings.
Remember that if you unnecessarily delay treatment, cavities can become much worse over time. This can lead to the need for more expensive procedures.
Consider Requesting an Orthodontic Checkup
Some dental plans cover orthodontic care for minors but exclude coverage for adults. If your child’s pediatric dentist recommends that they get an orthodontic checkup, your insurance is likely to cover it! Early orthodontic care can do much to reduce the need for braces and similar treatments later in life.
Are you taking full advantage of your child’s dental coverage? Your efforts to do so can help to keep your little one’s smile in great shape!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Justin Chan and Sage Yoo are two highly skilled pediatric dentists who love the unique rewards and challenges that come with caring for young smiles. Our practice welcomes insurance, and we are even in-network with some popular plans. If you would like to find out how our team may be able to help you maximize your child’s coverage, contact Sprout Dentistry for Kids of Allen at 469-663-0098.