Guest Author - Stacey Abler

We all want to have beautiful, healthy smiles for ourselves and our families. Under your health coverage plan in the military, dental coverage is not included. But signing up for dental is easy and convenient.

The Tricare Dental Program provides dental coverage to military dependents. The military member is automatically provided coverage. The premiums are based on covering only one person or an entire family. As of January 1, 2006, the single premium is $10.51 and the family premium is $26.27. As of February 1, 2007, the premiums increase to $11.05 for single and $27.63 for family. These rates are for active duty dependents only. National Guard and Reserve dependents fall under a different rate structure.

The percentage of cost sharing for procedures is based on rank with E-1 to E-4 paying the lowest percentage. Diagnostic, preventive and emergency services are all covered at 100% regardless of rank. The highest cost share is at 50%. This dental program even covers 50% of the cost for bleaching services. Now you can get a whiter, brighter smile and only pay half!

To enroll for the coverage, visit www.tricaredentalprogram.com. The enrollment only takes a few minutes to complete. Normally, you will receive your enrollment cards in about ten days. If you enroll before the 20th, your coverage will begin on the 1st of the following month. If you enroll after the 20th, your coverage will begin on the 1st of the second month.

Be sure to take advantage of this great benefit to keep your smile healthy and bright.