A large percentage of American families have dental benefits through an employer or through another means. However, it can be confusing at first. You know that your child can see their dentist for cleanings and checkups without a problem, but what about unexpected, emergency dental visits? Will they receive coverage. Here’s what you should know!
Will My Child’s Treatment Be Covered?
Your visit will likely receive some partial coverage. However, the percentage of your child’s treatment that is covered depends on the type of emergency that they are experiencing and the treatment required to restore their oral health. That’s why it is nearly impossible to know exactly how much you will be expected to pay out of pocket and how much will be covered by insurance until after your child sees their dentist and has the issue identified.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Every dental plan is a little bit different, so you need to seek this information from your provider to be certain. Here is what the typical structure looks like for dental coverage.
- 100% of Preventive Care
- 80% of Basic Procedures
- 50% of Major Procedures
Every plan has a cap of how much it covers each year. This is called an annual maximum. After you reach this, you are fully responsible for all expenses.
How Does This Look in a Real Situation?
Because the coverage depends on the type of treatment that your child needs, the cost can vary quite a bit. For instance, if your child’s emergency is a result of tooth decay and they need a filling, approximately 80% of their treatment is likely to be covered. If your child needs a more complex procedure, you might be left responsible for half the cost. Just remember that the longer that dental issues are put off, the worse they will get. When your child sees their dentist for treatment as soon as possible, you are more likely to save money going forward.
If you are worried about the cost of your child’s dental treatment, talk to their dental team. Other options may be available to help their treatment better fit into your budget. Getting emergency care shouldn’t mean stressing over finances.
About the Practice
At Dr. Glen’s Happy Teeth, we have a team of skilled dentists serving children in the Long Beach area. With their combined experience and expertise, children can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If your child is experiencing tooth pain or another emergency, we would be happy to help. To learn more about dental insurance or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (516) 517-0331.