As schools prepare to resume classes this fall, parents should make sure their kids are healthy and well to start the school year right. That includes scheduling a routine dental checkup.

Importance of preventive oral health care

Dental problems can interfere with children’s eating, speaking, and learning abilities. Regular dental screenings and cleanings can help to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Back-to-school is also a great time to review how pre-estimates can be utilized when determining costs of various treatments that might arise before the end of the year.

Benefits of routine dental checkups

Routine screenings help to identify any potential problems early on. Early detection and treatment of dental problems can help prevent more severe problems from developing.

Dentists can also help educate children about the importance of good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing techniques and healthy snacking. During a routine cleaning dentists remove any built-up tartar and debris from your child’s teeth, setting them up for a healthy start to the school year!

Using Pre-estimates as a Tool to Maximize Dental Benefits

Your child isn’t the only one who might need a back-to-school refresher. There are many ways to utilize your dental benefits, with one of them being requesting a pre-estimate.

What is a pre-estimate?

A pre-estimate is simply the estimated cost before receiving treatment, and it details how the cost will be split between the patient and your dental carrier. Pre-estimates are not a guarantee but rather a best estimate.

Once you submit a request through your dental office, they’ll file the recommended treatment plan with your dental carrier, who will review the documents and treatment recommendations to create a pre-estimate based on your plan benefits.

The pre-estimate considers several factors, including your dental plan benefits, annual maximum, and deductible amounts.

When to use it

A pre-estimate is recommended for procedures that cost over $200. Knowing a dental procedure’s estimated cost can help you better financially prepare for it. This is especially important if you have a flex spending account covering dental and medical expenses. Funds in a flex spending account must be used within a specified timeframe, so check with your employer for details. When scheduling a dental procedure for the year’s second half, this can make a difference.

Remember, if you’re a TruAssure member, you can log in to your account to get specific details related to your plan. If you have questions about your pre-estimate, contact a TruAssure representative. No matter the estimated procedure amount, it’s to your benefit to make the most of your dental coverage and know what your plan covers.

With a healthy smile, your child can confidently begin the school year. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today and enjoy the last few weeks of summer before school starts!