Why Dental Health is Important
Taking care of your oral health is crucial for working adults who interact with people in society daily. Not only does it impact your daily life, but problems in the mouth and teeth such as cavities, gum inflammation, tooth decay, bad breath, or even periodontal disease can also have negative effects on your overall physical health. It is recommended to visit a dentist regularly, at least 1-2 times a year, to maintain the health and strength of your teeth and gums in the long run.
Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Secretary-General of the Social Security Office, emphasizes the importance of dental benefits in promoting the health of insured individuals. Utilizing this benefit annually without carryover to the next year ensures that individuals do not miss out on essential dental care. Those eligible for this benefit must be insured under Articles 33 and 39, paying the full supplementary premium for 3 months within a 15-month period prior to receiving services. This entitles them to dental care at no additional cost, including extractions, fillings, scaling, and wisdom tooth extraction, up to a maximum of 900 Baht per person per year.
Accessible Dental Services
Insured individuals can access medical services at healthcare facilities affiliated with the Social Security Office immediately without any upfront payment. They are only required to pay for any medical services beyond the benefits they receive. Furthermore, those eligible for this benefit can also receive partial dentures at a subsidized rate. The cost-sharing for removable partial dentures ranges from 1,300 Baht for 1-5 teeth to 1,500 Baht for more than 5 teeth. For full upper or lower dentures, the cost-sharing is capped at 2,400 Baht, while full upper and lower dentures are capped at 4,400 Baht.
In the case of receiving partial dentures, individuals can avail of the benefit again after a waiting period of 5 years from the initial procedure. To access dental services, individuals must present their national identification card to demonstrate their entitlement to treatment at participating healthcare facilities. This benefit is in accordance with the stipulated guidelines and ensures that individuals can maintain their oral health effectively.
Reimbursement Process and Additional Benefits
If insured individuals choose to receive dental services at a non-participating healthcare facility, they can submit their reimbursement claims directly to the Social Security Office. By providing necessary documents such as payment receipts, physician certificates, and a copy of their bank account, individuals can request reimbursement for the dental services received. Alternatively, they can submit their documents to the Social Security Office branches in Bangkok, provinces, or nationwide.
Insured individuals have up to 2 years from the date of service to claim reimbursements for dental procedures. This streamlined process ensures that individuals can access dental care promptly and receive financial assistance for eligible services. For further information or assistance, individuals can contact the hotline at 1506, available 24 hours a day, reach out via Line@ssothai, or visit the official Social Security Office website.
In conclusion, taking care of your dental health is essential for overall well-being. By utilizing the available dental insurance benefits provided by the Social Security Office, insured individuals can access quality dental care without financial burden. Regular dental check-ups, timely treatments, and proper oral hygiene practices are vital in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Don’t overlook the importance of dental health – make the most of your benefits and prioritize your oral health today.