Understanding the Importance of Basic Dental Care for Children

Dental health plays a vital role in a child's overall wellbeing, impacting nutrition, speech, confidence, and academic performance. In South Africa, untreated tooth decay remains one of the most common childhood health challenges. Early preventive care and timely treatment can reduce dental pain, avoid missed school days, and mitigate expensive interventions later.

What is Basic Dentistry for Children?

• Routine dental check-ups: Regular visits to assess oral health and catch issues early.
• Dental cleanings: Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar build-up.
• Fluoride treatments: Helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
• Simple fillings and extractions: Treatment for minor cavities or badly decayed baby teeth.
• Education: Guidance on oral hygiene practices and nutrition for healthy teeth.

Why Early Dental Cover Matters

Children often develop cavities earlier than adults. South African studies show that over 60% of children experience tooth decay by age six. Without cover for preventive and basic dental care, minor issues can progress into complex problems affecting a child’s comfort and overall health. Comprehensive health insurance that includes these essentials makes a real difference.

How Dentistry Cover Works in Health Insurance Plans

Basic dentistry for children is generally included in day-to-day health plans. These plans list a range of covered treatments up to annual benefit limits. Hospital plans focus on admissions and emergencies-dental emergencies are only included if hospitalization is required. To ensure your child accesses regular cleanings and fillings, pairing day-to-day cover with hospital or combined products is ideal.

Key Features of Children’s Dentistry Cover

For a summary of premium ranges for children's plans, visit the current rates page for full details based on your child’s age and chosen cover level.

What to Look for in Children's Dentistry Cover

• Annual limits and frequency: Confirm how many dental check-ups or treatments are allowed each year.
• Provider networks: See if your local dentist is on the provider list - Affinity Health has a national children’s provider network. Use the provider finder tool for up-to-date options.
• Waiting periods: Check if new joiners have a mandatory wait before using dental benefits.

How to Encourage Good Oral Habits at Home

• Supervise brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste until age 7 or 8.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals.
• Encourage flossing as early permanent teeth emerge.
• Promote regular dental visits, even without symptoms.

How Basic Dentistry Fits into Family Health Budgets

Day-to-day plans with children’s dental benefits offer a structured way to budget for expected dental costs. For example, at Affinity Health, Junior Day-to-Day Plan premiums start from R609 per child per month, with inclusion of preventive and basic treatments. Combined plans add hospital protection for accidental injury or severe emergencies.

Explore combined cover options for additional protection by visiting the Combined Plan overview to see how dental and hospital benefits work together for children’s health.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Junior Cover Benefits
• Affinity Health - Pricing and Premiums
• Affinity Health - Find a Provider
• SA National Oral Health Strategy
• Statistics South Africa: Child Health