Is your little one covered by your dental insurance plan? If so, it is especially important for you to remember that your unused benefits are likely to expire at the end of this year. Most plans run from January to December and do not roll over from one period to the next. You want to do everything possible to ensure your child’s smile grows into a healthy, beautiful one — and that’s why it’s time to book a checkup and cleaning with their dentist in Casper before the year is up.
How Does Dental Insurance Work?
You or your employer pay for your dental insurance benefits upfront in the form of a monthly premium. This amount usually ranges around $50 for an individual and $150 for a family of 3. In exchange for that regular payment, you and anyone else covered under your plan are eligible to receive certain benefits at a reduced rate.
While the details of your plan may vary based on decisions made at the time of enrollment, in general, you can expect your coverage to look like this:
- Two checkups and cleanings are either free or covered by 80%
- An annual set of X-rays is typically covered, too
- Fluoride may be covered for children, who are especially vulnerable to cavities
- Restorative treatments like crown and bridge, dentures, and others are covered between 50% and 80%, depending on the complexity of the procedure
- New braces treatments receive some coverage
Prevention Is Crucial for Growing Smiles
Kids’ smiles are particularly vulnerable to one threat in particular: cavities. In fact, the large majority of children will have had at least one cavity by the time they are 11 years old. To protect growing smiles from this oral health hazard, routine preventive care is of the utmost importance. The American Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit around the time they turn 1, with regular visits beginning no later than 3 years old. These appointments are typically either totally free or heavily discounted by a dental insurance, so make sure you take advantage of this benefit.
How Can I Stretch My Child’s Benefits?
If your child has not had 2 checkups and cleanings in 2018, that is a great place to start when you are trying to maximize your family’s coverage. December is a busy month at most dental practices, so don’t wait to book a visit for your little one. Let your child’s dentist know you are trying to take advantage of your dental insurance benefits when you do!
Meet the Practice
Casper Children’s Dental Clinic offers friendly dental care for growing smiles. Plus, they work with all insurance plans and Medicaid to ensure their high-quality care is highly affordable. To book an end of year checkup and cleaning for your little one, do not hesitate to get in touch with the practice by calling them at (307) 266-1997.