As you know, dental health is important to everyone’s health, especially children. That’s why states are required to provide dental care options for children but not necessarily for adults. These options fall under Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry accepts Medicaid and CHP+ Dentaquest plans that cover child dental services. Read on for answers to frequently asked questions about Medicaid dental coverage for kids.
FAQS About Medicaid Dental Coverage for Kids
If you can’t afford a dentist for your child, the federal government offers programs that make sure most kids in the U.S. have access to healthcare: Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). At Discovery Kids, we also offer the Gloss Dental Discount Plan for those without dental insurance. Families pay an annual fee to receive 10-60% off dental services.
es, Medicaid covers dental services for every child enrolled. This is part of a comprehensive set of benefits called the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit. At the least, you can expect dental services for pain relief and infections, teeth restoration, and oral maintenance. Your child will be put on a dental periodicity schedule set by the state to ensure consistent dental care. Learn more at Medicaid.gov.
Your child is covered for any preventive services like cleanings, x-rays, sealants, and exams along with restorative services like fillings, crowns, oral surgery, and root canals. Note that sometimes our dentist might need approval from Medicaid before beginning services as some are not deemed medically necessary.
Why do dentists not accept Medicaid?
Some dentists don’t accept Medicaid because reimbursements are low and the paperwork is high. Dentists get more money for their services from private insurance companies compared to the Medicaid program, which pays about half.
Children have healthcare, including dental, until they are 21 years old under the EPSDT benefit in Medicaid. Be sure to renew your child’s coverage each year.
If you have any other questions or concerns about what services are covered in your child’s dental plan, give our office a call at (719) 596-6920. We’ll be happy to help!