Dental insurance for children
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Oral health is critical to a child's overall health and well-being. How so? For starters, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that tooth decay is the number one chronic childhood disease in America. Dental emergencies are also a problem: the CDC notes that they cause more than 34 million lost school hours each year.1 The fact is, children with poor oral health often miss more school and may receive lower grades. This missed school time can also impact parents and caregivers, who may need to take time off work to address their child's dental needs.
Kids who are unhappy with their smile, have chronic bad breath, or experience discomfort due to cavities or gum disease may experience anxiety and lower self-confidence.2 These challenges can cause stress for parents and caregivers as well. It's no wonder the American Academy of Pediatrics says poor oral health can have a detrimental effect on success later in life.3 And while cost is often a barrier to getting children the dental care they need, dental insurance can help open up the possibilities to quality care. Addressing oral health issues not only helps children stay in school and participate in social activities, but also alleviates the stress and anxiety for both children and their parents. Ensuring oral health is another way parents can help children thrive and achieve an even brighter future.
A few things every parent should know:
Why babies, young children, and teens need regular dental care
The benefits of dental insurance
How to get coverage for you and your family
Why do babies, children, and teens need regular dental care?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children have their first dental exam by their first tooth or first birthday4, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that they have checkups every six months5 as they grow up. All for a good reason: From the time their first baby teeth come in at age six months to a year, to the time their wisdom teeth emerge in the late teens, kids are at risk of dental issues, both routine and serious. Typical issues to look for (or expect) by age include:
Babies (0-2 years old):
Teething: Teething can be uncomfortable for babies as their first teeth start to emerge, typically around 6 months of age.
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: This can occur if a baby falls asleep with a bottle containing sugary liquids, such as milk or juice, in their mouth.
Thumb-Sucking and Pacifier Use: Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can affect tooth alignment and the development of the jaw.
Toddlers (2-5 years old):
Tooth Decay: As toddlers start eating more solid foods, they may be at risk for cavities if they consume sugary snacks and drinks frequently.
Injury: Toddlers are active and may be prone to accidents that could result in dental injuries.
Children (6-12 years old):
Tooth Decay: Lack of regular brushing and flossing is common in this age group, and neglect of oral hygiene can lead to cavities.
Orthodontics: Your child’s teeth may require orthodontic treatment to address issues like misaligned teeth or bite problems and help ensure a healthy smile.
Teens (13-19 years old):
Tooth Decay: Teens may face increased risks of cavities due to dietary choices and neglect of oral hygiene.
Gum Disease: Gingivitis and more advanced gum disease can become a concern during the teenage years if proper oral care is neglected.
Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth typically start to come in during the late teens, and they can sometimes cause issues like impaction (inability to break through the gum) or crowding.
Bottom line? Parents and caregivers should promote good oral health habits like flossing and brushing at every stage of a child's development. Importantly, children should have regular access to dental checkups, cleanings, and interventions to help prevent, detect, and mitigate problems before they become serious. Regular dental visits can also help dentists spot signs of mental health issues, such as anxiety and eating disorders, which can impact mental and overall health.
Why should you consider dental insurance?
Just as health insurance makes visits to the pediatrician more affordable, dental insurance for kids helps make dental care more affordable. And when cost isn’t a big issue, kids are more likely to go to the dentist: children with dental insurance are twice as likely to receive services as those without it.6 In fact, seventy-six percent of parents with coverage report taking their children to visit the dentist at least twice a year.7
Important facts to know about dental insurance
Dental costs without insurance continue to increase. The cost of a cleaning typically may be up to $200;8 normal silver fillings range from $133 to $213; root canals run from $862 to $1,535 depending on the tooth; and the average cost of a porcelain or ceramic substrate crown is currently $1,325 – 1,950.9
Dental insurance can cover a range of costly care. An insurance plan can help make oral care more affordable by covering preventive cleanings and x-rays, restorative services like fillings and crowns, and even more serious oral surgery. Some plans even may cover orthodontia— among the most expensive treatments. And when you see a provider in your network, you’ll benefit from discounted rates.
Dental insurance networks can help you find a quality dentist for your child. A comprehensive insurance plan can provide access to a large network of dentists nationwide, including pediatric dentists who are specially trained to work with children. The bigger the network, the more likely you are to find a provider you like close to home. How big a network do you need? For comparison, Guardian network has more than 130,000 providers nationally.10
There are two basic types of plans. A Dental PPO will give you a greater choice of dentists without referrals; a Dental HMO will likely lower your overall cost of care, but you may have to go further to find a provider in your network.
It’s easy to get dental coverage at work, or on your own
Dental coverage through your employer | Buying dental insurance on your own |
|---|---|
If you or your spouse can get dental benefits through work, that's typically your best option. Employers can work with one of the largest dental insurance companies to secure group rates – and sometimes, better benefits – for their employees. | If workplace dental benefits aren't offered, individual plans are also available from dental insurers such as Guardian, who lets you shop for and purchase affordable coverage directly online. |
Why so many parents choose Guardian dental plans
With more than 138,000 providers nationwide, Guardian offers one of the largest networks around, making it easier for caregivers to find a nearby network dentist. Most plans pay all or most of the charge for checkups and cleanings—so there's no reason not to take advantage of regular services that can be so important to both oral and overall health. With average network discounts of 40% the whole family can save on procedures and treatments.
Plus, plan innovations put quality care in even easier reach. For example, Guardian Early Smiles® provides 100% in-network coverage on preventive, basic, and major care for children ages 12 and under. And Guardian Diminishing Deductible® reduces your deductible for all covered family members each year until it reaches $0 after three years.