Did you know that, according to the National Association of Dental Plans, an estimated 12 million children in the United States don’t have dental insurance? Many well-meaning parents wait to include their kid(s) on their policy because they feel it’s not worth paying for benefits until their kid is old enough to use them.
But how do you know the right time to update your policy? If you’re unsure when and why you should consider getting dental insurance to safeguard your little one’s smile, continue reading to learn more!
How Does Dental Insurance Work?
Whether you have dental insurance through your employer or have purchased a plan on your own, these policies are a simple and effective way to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for dental care for your family. Most policies are designed to encourage patients to practice proper preventive care by covering up to 100% of standard services, like routine exams, cleanings, annual X-rays, sealants, and fillings. Then, they often include 50% to 80% of other procedures required to address issues, such as a root canal, a dental crown, or extracting a troublesome tooth.
However, many plans include restrictions you should be aware of that can impact your child. For instance, there may be a waiting period that must pass before benefits take effect for them, or there may be limitations on the various services covered.
When Should I Get Dental Insurance for My Child?
The American Dental Association recommends taking your little one for their first visit when their first tooth erupts, typically when they’re about a year old. If you have a newborn at home, you may feel tempted to wait until they’re older to explore suitable plans, but many plans have a waiting period of 6 to 12 months. You may want to research appropriate plans now so that this timeframe will have passed by the time your child’s first tooth appears.
How Does Dental Insurance Benefit My Child?
If you’re questioning whether it’s worth putting your kid on your dental insurance plan, keep in mind that proper preventive care is essential for still-developing smiles. You might think there’s no need to worry about oral issues until they’re older, but bacteria in their mouth can penetrate their connective tissues and impact their teeth before they erupt.
Visiting their pediatric dentist every six months allows them to monitor their condition to catch and treat any potential problems before they can progress. For example, they can provide fluoride treatments to strengthen weakened enamel, treat gingivitis to prevent gum disease, and teach your child the value of caring for their teeth and gums as they grow.
Fortunately, their insurance is likely to cover these services, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve taken steps to ensure your little one builds a happy, healthy smile!
Meet the Author
Dr. Sheh Vahid is passionate about helping children from 0 to 18 enhance their daily lives by improving their dental health and habits. She earned her dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Then she completed a general residency with a focus on pediatrics at the University of Rochester Eastman Dental Center. Today, she’s a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and provides a comprehensive menu of services to meet even the most unique needs under one roof. If you’re ready to schedule your child’s next checkup, you can request an appointment on the website or call (678) 498-2878.