The Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) has established a toll-free number and website to help parents connect their children to local dentists that accept their children's insurance.
The Dental Referral Program for Children coincides with the January 1 implementation of mandatory pediatric dental coverage for all children in Washington, according to a press release. Washington and Nevada are the only two states that require all children to have a dental benefit as part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) changes.
As part of healthcare reform implementation, children in Washington are required to have dental coverage. This means that routine exams, cleanings, x-rays, and fillings will be covered by their health plan or a standalone dental plan. The WSDA wants to ensure that those who want to use this benefit can do so.
Parents can call 877-239-1011 or visit www.wsda.org/children to participate in the program. Parents will be asked to provide basic information about their family and be given the contact information of several nearby dental offices.
The WSDA has developed a database of member dentists who are accepting new pediatric patients. This database also includes information about which types of insurance (including Medicaid) dental offices accept, languages spoken, and ability to accommodate children with special needs. Currently, more than 500 dental offices are participating in the program from across the state, and more dental offices are being added to the program each week.
According to a 2010 state oral health survey, 58% of Washington's third-graders have experienced dental caries. Children who have dental problems can have a hard time eating, sleeping, and learning at school. Things such as brushing children's teeth for two minutes, twice a day, along with regular visits to the dentist can keep mouths healthy.
Recent data from Washington Healthplanfinder shows that 54,000 children are already enrolled and have a pediatric dental benefit.
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