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A Healthy Smile Helps Kids Feel Their Best

Date: 02/18/26

A healthy smile is about more than teeth. From the first baby tooth through the teen years, good oral health helps children feel better, learn better, and grow with confidence.

Why dental health matters at every age

When children have healthy teeth and gums, they are more likely to:

  • Focus in school without distractions from tooth pain
  • Feel confident speaking, smiling, and socializing
  • Eat well and get the nutrition they need to grow
  • Build healthy routines that can last into adulthood

Dental problems can lead to pain, infections, and missed school days. Preventive dental care helps your child do better in school and life.

Oral care grows with your child

Just like learning to walk, read, or manage homework, oral care routines change as children grow.

  • Early years: Getting comfortable with brushing and dental visits
  • School-age years: Building responsibility and healthy habits
  • Teen years: Understanding how oral health affects confidence and overall health

Every stage is a chance to support healthy development.

Small daily habits make a big difference

You don’t have to do everything at once. Simple routines can help protect your child’s smile:

  • Brushing teeth twice a day
  • Drinking more water than sugary drinks
  • Seeing a dentist for regular checkups

Sticking with it matters more than being perfect.

Healthy smiles support school success

Children who are not dealing with tooth pain are better able to:

  • Pay attention in class
  • Participate in activities
  • Stay in school instead of missing days

Healthy teeth help children show up ready to learn.

Dental care is part of your child’s Medicaid or PeachCare for Kids benefits (EPSDT)

Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids covers dental care for children through a benefit called EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment).

EPSDT helps make sure children get:

  • Regular dental checkups and cleanings
  • X-rays and exams when needed
  • Treatment to fix dental problems early

EPSDT focuses on finding and treating dental issues early before they become bigger health problems. That means dental care isn’t just for emergencies. It’s part of helping your child stay healthy and ready to learn.

Extra help with dental supplies through your health plan

As a Peach State Health Plan member, you may have access to an Over-the-Counter (OTC) Value-Added Benefit that helps cover everyday dental hygiene items, such as:

  • Toothbrushes
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss and mouth rinse

These supplies can help support healthy routines at home without added cost.

Not sure how to use your OTC benefit?
Member Services can help you understand what’s covered and how to order eligible items. You can also visit our website to learn more.

Need help getting started?

Our Member Services team is here to help. Call us at 1-800-704-1484 TDD/TTY 1-800-255-0056 for help with:

  • Finding a dentist close to home
  • Understanding EPSDT dental benefits
  • Using your OTC benefit for dental supplies
  • Getting help with scheduling or transportation, if available

A healthy smile helps your child learn, grow, and shine at every stage from infancy through age 18.

 

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