Back-to-school and back to the dentist
Three years ago, Texas Senate Bill 550 passed, and child support law now requires dental insurance to be covered in addition to health insurance premiums that have already been required. The law now takes effect September 1, 2018, its effective date being three years out due to changes that were required in computer systems and coding, according to a recent article[i], which further states that ?Parents who would like to add dental coverage to child-support payments will have to file with the Texas Attorney General?s Office.?
Comments by Mark Scroggins on child support and dental insurance:
Regarding the dental insurance requirement in the 2015, Texas Senate Bill 550, Mark L. Scroggins stated, ?This has been a long time coming. From a practical standpoint, dental coverage has been dealt with by most attorneys for years even though it is just now being made mandatory. From a cost perspective, dental is a fraction of the cost of medical insurance and likely will not make any significant impact on payments.?
Dental health and hygiene for young children is important
Dental decay and cavities in baby teeth are concerning, even though young children lose those baby teeth. Dentists will tell you that dental decay in baby teeth can lead to problems with children?s permanent teeth.
Did you know?
- One out of 10 two-year-old?s already have one or more cavities;
- By age three, 28% of children have one or more cavities; and
- By age five, nearly 50% of children have one or more cavities.[ii]?
Regular trips to the dentist for cleanings are also an opportunity for you and your child to ask the dentist or hygienist what you can do to reduce the sugar in your child?s diet and how to properly brush, floss and clean your child?s teeth. When going to the dentist is routine and fun, your child has a better chance they will continue into their teen and young adult years with good dental and hygiene habits.
Questions about kids, dental hygiene and adding dental insurance and your child support order?
If you have questions about your child support order or obligations and dental insurance was not previously included with medical insurance in your child support order, call Scroggins Law Group in Dallas at (214) 469-3100 to make an appointment to speak to an attorney about child support, including modifications.
[i] KWTX.com, Changes to Texas Child Support Law Take Effect Saturday. By Chelsea Edwards, Aug. 29, 2018
[ii] Healthychildren.org, Dental Health & Hygiene for Young Children.
