Do Pediatric Dentists Cost More?

Pediatric Dentist Cost

It is common for people to think that a pediatric dentist will be more expensive than a traditional family dentist. In some cases Pediatric dentists may charge more, however, the prices are not drastically different. The rates for a pediatric dentist are generally similar to that of a regular dentist and there are numerous benefits associated with using a pediatric dentist.

On average, an individual pediatric checkup which is not covered by insurance ranges from $65 to $100. It is recommended that a healthy child should visit the dentist twice a year for a routine checkup. This means that for an average family with two children, they should expect to pay around $300 annually for dental visits which can add up. Fortunately, many dentists offer flexible payment terms and payment plans for a patient who does not have dental insurance. For parents who have dental insurance for their children, they can expect to cover the co-pay portion of their insurance deductible for these routine visits.

Pediatric Dental Visits

It can be especially challenging to manage a child’s dental appointment. This is true even for dentists who have been practicing for many years. Because children can be so difficult to work with in the dental setting, many general dentists opt to specialize in adult dental issues and avoid working with children altogether. Pediatric dentists have specialized training and relevant experience to ensure children are comfortable during their appointment and to make the visit productive.

The cost for a pediatric dentist is comparable to a regular dentist. Dentist who specialize in treating children are trained and familiar in dealing with special needs patients, infants, and even toddlers who can be especially challenging to work with. Pediatric dentists are incredibly patient and work diligently to establish a good report with the young patient. This helps to put them at ease and ensure they have a positive experience at the dentist. In addition, pediatric dentists are trained to specifically handle issues which are common in children.

The following are tips for minimizing dental costs:

  • Attend regular checkups: it is recommended that children visit the dentist twice a year. This aids in prevention and early detection of issues which can be expensive and complicated to treat if they are not identified.
  • Good oral hygiene: parents should practice good oral hygiene with children at home to prevent decay and other serious issues. Good oral hygiene includes twice daily brushing and regular flossing. Patients should also maintain a well-balanced diet and ensure children are well hydrated.
  • Minimal sugar: Children should avoid regular consumption of candy and sugary drinks.
    Dental coverage: Invest in affordable dental coverage to ensure the cost does not prohibit care. While there may be a cost upfront, there can be substantial savings long-term.
  • Annual Dental Visit Costs : Based on information from the American Dental Association (ADA), parents often pay out of pocket for a child’s dental care. More than 42% of all American adults do not have dental insurance for their children.

On average, the annual deductible for children who were between 1 and 6 was $257. For children in the next age bracket, 7-12 years old, the average annual deductible per child was $828. For children between 13 and 18 years old, the average annual deductible was $928. These numbers include routine visits, fillings, x-rays, and other types of common preventative treatments required for children who are 18 or under.

Common Procedures for Pediatric Dentists