New Year, New Plan: What Families Need to Know About Dental Insurance, Orthodontic Care, and Home Habits
The start of a new year often brings new routines, new goals, and, for many families, a new dental insurance plan year. Whether your child has pending treatment, orthodontics, or no insurance at all, now is the perfect time to check in and make sure your child’s smile stays on track.
Here’s what parents should know as we head into the new year.
1. New Year = New Insurance Plan Year
Most dental insurance plans reset on January 1. That means:
Annual maximums restart.
Deductibles may reset.
Coverage details can change.
If your child has a treatment appointment scheduled or previously scheduled, now is the time to contact our office. Taking care of pending treatment early in the year helps:
Prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.
Use benefits efficiently.
Avoid last-minute stress later in the year.
Our team is happy to help you review your child’s treatment plan and insurance benefits.
2. Insurance May Look Different With the New Year
Insurance plans often change from year to year. Coverage amounts, networks, and benefits may differ from last year, and some families may temporarily be without dental insurance.
If your child does not have dental insurance, Wild About Smiles offers discounted rates, including cleanings, so they can continue receiving the care they need without interruption.
Preventive care should never be delayed because of insurance changes. But remember, consistent cleanings (every six months ideally or at least once a year) help prevent emergencies.
3. Home Care During Orthodontics and the Importance of Periodic Dental Visits
If your child has braces or other orthodontic appliances, home care and regular dental visits are more important than ever to ensure they maintain good oral hygiene. They should brush their teeth 2 times a day and use a Waterpik every time. Flossing a few times a week, in addition to it, is ideal. During orthodontic treatment, it is more important that they see their dentist for their cleanings and checkups. Our assistants and hygienists are experienced in working with children undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontics can make it easier for plaque and food to build up, increasing the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and white spot lesions.
To protect your child’s smile:
Brush at least twice a day.
Waterpick before brushing.
Floss daily, especially around brackets and wires.
Maintain regular professional cleanings and exams.
Periodic dental visits allow us to monitor oral health, catch concerns early, and keep orthodontic treatment on track.
We’re Here to Help
Whether you are navigating a new insurance plan, scheduling pending treatment, or looking for affordable care without insurance, our team is here to support your family every step of the way.
Call or message our office to schedule an appointment or ask about coverage and discounted options.