Exchange Announces Dental Plans

The Covered California health insurance exchange has announced the plans that will be offering pediatric dental benefits starting in early 2014.

The plans are Delta Dental of California, Anthem Dental, Blue Shield of California, Health Net Dental, Liberty Dental Plan and Premier Access Dental. Five of the carriers are offering standalone coverage, while Health Net will offer coverage only in a bundle with healthcare coverage.

“Dental care is a vital component of overall health, and especially critical for our state’s children,” said Covered California executive director Peter Lee.  A variety of studies have linked oral health with better overall health.

Children up to the age of 19 are eligible to purchase benefits, which can be folded into a single premium for healthcare coverage. Premiums range from about $10 a month for some HMO products to up to $30 a month for a dental PPO.

Typically, dental plans are capped at an average annual benefit of $1,500 a year, according to industry experts. Under the Affordable Care Act, there is no cap on the benefits. Medically necessary orthodontia to correct chewing and speaking defects is also covered.