Dental Insurance Coverage and the Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act considers dental coverage for children an “essential health benefit.” This means that in order for a health plan to be ACA compliant, it must include pediatric dental coverage or be available through a standalone plan. All of Guardian’s plans include the pediatric essential health benefit, and these services are covered without annual or lifetime limits when care is received in-network.

This rule applies to anyone under the age of 19, so while your high schooler may not consider themselves a child, HealthCare.gov does!

While dental insurance isn’t required benefit for adults under the Affordable Care Act, dental care is a very important part of your overall health and wellness of you and your family.

Just like health insurance, dental insurance works by paying for a portion of your dental care costs in return for a monthly fee, called a premium. While proper dental hygiene, much like good diet and exercise, can help you keep a healthy mouth and a health body, there are always emergencies. (And don’t forget about regular dental visits for checkups and cleanings!) Even the most basic dental procedures have costs associated with them, and without dental insurance, you could be on the line for the full cost out-of-pocket!