It's impossible to calculate the rewards of parenting but let's face it, raising kids is expensive. Discounted or free dental care can help your family's bottom line.
Instructions
1. Contact your local United Way. In many major cities United Way operates a 211 referral system with information about everyting from rental assistance to family counseling. A call to your local United Way 211 will yield information about dentists in the area that can help your kids keep their pearly whites their healthy best.
2. Call your local health department. The health department can be a great asset to your family's physical, emotional and mental health. In addition to providing free or low cost dental care for children, your health department can help you keep immunizations current and provide evaluations and services for children with developmental delays.
3. Check your local newspaper. This is where you will find listings for local health fairs and screenings. Free dental care for children is often provided during such events. Your child will enjoy the costumed characters, live music, food and fun.
4. Call your child's school. Many schools participate in the "Help a Child Smile" mobile dental care program. Dentists in fully loaded vans pull up to your child's school and provide the same care they would receive in a stationary office. Worried about not being there? Don't be; you will receive a full report of the exam and any proposed follow up treatment the very same day. The program offers a sliding scale and accepts Medicaid.
5. Apply for Medicaid. If you are not eligible for the program that provides subsidized medical and dental care, don't give up. Instead, try applying for kid focused insurance programs that make dental/health care accessible and affordable for average families. Contact your local Department of Family and Children Services for more information. Many dentists accept these plans; they provide great care, too.You might also try making a visit to your local teaching hospital. Depending on your income, you may qualify for free or reduced medical and dental care for not just your children but for the whole family.
Tags: dental care, your local, health department, your local United, Call your, care children
