Children and adults are different in so many ways. It’s quite obvious to say that children and adults also have different medical and dental needs. However when it comes to medical and dental plans, parents and their children have the same policy with the same set of benefits. How can you make this work for you and your children knowing that you’re not the same? Think about these things when you’re choosing a dental plan for your kids:
Choose a plan that allows your children to see a pediatric dentist. Children will get better care in the hands of a pediatric dentist than a general practitioner. But some dental insurance only gives them access to general doctors. If this is the case with your dental policy, you might want to start looking for another insurance.
Check what benefits are included in your coverage for preventive care. Preventive care is very important for children. At this time, their teeth are still developing. It’s good if you can have them checked regularly to correct whatever dental problem may be developing. Preventive care is important but when the budget is tight, this is an expense that is usually bypassed. Having coverage for this will be less of a deterrent to have regular dental check ups. If you feel like your insurance doesn’t have enough coverage for preventive care, find another one that does.
Check what services are covered. Children’s teeth need special case because this is the time when they gradually change to permanent. What happens if they grow abnormally? They might need orthodontics. But a lot of dental plans don’t cover orthodontic services because they are considered cosmetic.
What will the insurance cover pertaining to emergency care? Because kids are restless and very active, medical and dental emergencies are inevitable. If your child falls off a bike and suddenly loses their tooth, can you easily access emergency care without having to get a referral first?
Choose a plan that will give you freedom in choosing your dental care providers. Some plans can be very restricting. You can only see dentists or go to clinics of their choice. Think if this arrangement is something you are comfortable with. If not, you know what to do.
Everyone wants to save on their dental plans. But make sure you know what you exchange for a cheaper premium. Some have a low premium but does not provide enough coverage or gives you very little choice in dentists or you’ll need to pay higher out of pocket costs. You know what’s best for your family. Choose a plan you know fits your needs and financial reach.