MAY 14, 2025 – Did you know that oral health has important links to your overall health? That’s why it’s especially important that children get proper dental care from an early age. This helps them maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives.
Luckily, the TRICARE Dental Program, administered by United Concordia, has you covered. The TDP provides dental health for eligible children of service members, helping your children access important dental care.
“The TDP provides essential coverage for children from age 1 through early adulthood,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Linda Coates, Chief, TRICARE Dental Program Branch. “It ensures your child has access to high-quality dental care that helps establish healthy habits early.”
Automatic enrollment at age 1
The TDP automatically enrolls your child in your dental plan when they turn age 1, if there’s a family member currently enrolled. This enrollment takes effect on the first day of the month following your child’s birthday.
It’s important to be proactive with your child’s oral health in the early stages. Bring your child to their first dental appointment after their first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday. Most babies’ teeth start to grow in at around 4 to 6 months old.
If you had a single plan before your child turned 1, your premium will change from the single plan rate to the family plan rate when your child is enrolled.
Costs
Your TDP monthly premiums are based on your sponsor’s status, rank and your enrollment type. Enrollment types include:
- Sponsor only
- Single enrollment (one family member, not sponsor)
- Family enrollment (more than one family member, not sponsor)
- Sponsor and family
Your cost-shares depend on your sponsor’s pay grade and where you live.
Coverage duration
Children can keep their TDP coverage until the end of the month they turn 23 if they:
- Are unmarried
- Attend an approved institution of higher education full-time
- Get at least half their financial support from their military sponsor
If your child stops meeting any of these conditions before turning 23, their coverage ends at the end of the month the change occurs. Additionally, if your child doesn’t meet these conditions at age 21, they’ll lose TRICARE coverage.
Services covered by TDP
The TDP covers a wide range of dental services for children, as described in the TRICARE Dental Program Handbook:
- Regular checkups and cleanings
- X-rays and evaluations
- Fluoride treatments
- Sealants for cavity prevention
- Fillings and restorations
- Orthodontics (braces) when medically necessary
- Emergency dental care
Most children can receive two routine teeth cleanings and two topical fluoride applications every 12 months. Your dentist can recommend the right schedule for your child’s needs.
Service frequency
The TDP provides coverage based on the following timeframes:
Every 12 months:
- Two oral checkups
- One set of bitewing X-rays
- Two routine cleanings
- Two fluoride applications
Every 36 months:
- One full mouth X-ray
- Sealants on permanent molars through age 18
Finding a dentist
To find a CONUS dentist, search the United Concordia network. If you’re overseas, use the OCONUS Find a Dentist tool.
Using military dental clinics
In the U.S., family members normally can’t get care at military dental clinics. But in certain situations, they may. These situations include:
- Emergencies
- Certain special dental cases in children
- Dental work related to treatment received at a military hospital or clinic
Your family members may be able to use overseas military dental clinics if they have space available. Check with your local overseas military dental clinic to find out what services they offer.
More information
For detailed information about TDP coverage, visit the United Concordia website. You can also contact United Concordia with specific questions about your child’s dental benefits.
Regular dental care for children supports not only their oral health, but their overall well-being. The TDP helps make this essential care accessible for eligible children.
Courtesy Story
Defense Health Agency