Medicaid & CHIP – Dallas, TX

A Convenient Way to Care for Your Child’s Smile

 

As a dental office in Dallas, Skillman Family Dentistry of Dallas is pleased to work with both Medicaid and CHIP to provide exceptional, one-of-a-kind services to children. Whether you have a toddler, school-aged child, or teenager who is 18 years of age or younger, we can provide the necessary care that is essential to ensuring the health and future of their smile. We understand that the details surrounding these plans can be difficult to understand, so if you have questions and would like to learn more, call our office or keep reading below.

Children’s Medicaid & CHIP: How Do They Work?

Girl giving a high-five to her dentist

If you have a children’s Medicaid plan, you can expect that this federal and state program will help to pay for any regular dental services that your child needs. Preventive care is the most effective way to minimize the risk of cavities and gum disease, so you can expect that your little one will enjoy a healthier smile year-round when choosing to use your Medicaid coverage.

If you have a CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) plan, the oral healthcare expenses incurred when taking your child to the dentist’s office will be paid for. This means that you pay less out of pocket while remaining confident that your child’s smile will be in the best possible hands. An important note when it comes to CHIP, though, is that your child must be a U.S. citizen and 18 years of age or younger to be eligible.

Dental Services Covered Under CHIP & Children’s Medicaid Plans

Young girl showing off her healthy smile

You may not be aware of the different services that are covered as part of your Medicaid or CHIP plan, so here is a brief breakdown of what you can expect when bringing your child in for dental care:

  • Two preventive checkups and cleanings each year
  • Dental X-rays
  • Minor restorative services that include tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns, and pulp therapy
  • Fluoride treatments
  • Major restorative services that include tooth extractions, etc.

Sedation dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics are not likely to be included, so you’ll be required to seek alternative payment options should your child need any of these services.

Medicaid Dental Coverage for Adults

Woman showing off healthy smile

Medicaid plans in the state of Texas are generally used to help pay for the oral healthcare needs of younger patients. However, there is an option for adults who need coverage for emergency dentistry. Certain state requirements must be met, and if they are not, you can turn to Skillman Family Dentistry of Dallas to offer flexible financing with Sunbit and/or CareCredit. These programs are offered through third parties but make it easy to break up the cost of treatment into manageable monthly installments.

Why Prevention Matters

Young girl in the dentist’s chair undergoing a checkup

Having a Medicaid or CHIP plan that you can rely on is one of the best ways to enjoy greater peace of mind when it comes to your child’s smile. However, seeking preventive methods to avoid the need for restorative or emergency dental care is even better. Whether it is bringing your child in for their six-month checkups, ensuring they practice good oral hygiene at home, having a custom mouthguard created for them to wear while playing sports, or making sure they eat healthy and nutritious foods, these are all effective ways to minimize oral health problems and help your little one maintain a healthier smile.