BILL NUMBER: S9929
SPONSOR: ADDABBO
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the insurance law and the social services law, in
relation to insurance coverage for dental night guards
 
PURPOSE:
This bill will require dental insurance coverage for a dental night
guard when prescribed by a licensed dentist.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Amends subsection (i) of section 3216 of the insurance law by
adding a new paragraph.
Section 2: Amends subsection (1) of section 3221 of the insurance law by
adding a new paragraph.
Section 3: Amends section 4303 of the insurance law by adding a new
subsection(ww).
Section 4: Amends subdivision 2 of section 365-a of the social service
law by adding a new paragraph.
Section 5: Sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Dentists recommend night guards for various reasons; bruxism (grinding
or clenched teeth), TMJ disorder, to protect teeth against further
damage. A professionally made device can cost anywhere between $400-$800
and prevents the need for restorative dental work in the future. The
device works by creating a synthetic barrier between the teeth so the
they no longer touch one another and cannot grind or clench. A night
guard can (1) prevent further tooth damage, (2) prevent morning head-
aches, (3) prevent enamel erosion, (4) ease symptoms of TMJ disorder (5)
reduce the risks of snoring. A medical device that can prevent costly
trips to the dentist is something that should be invested in.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
TBD
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S9929: 3216 insurance law, 3216(i) insurance law, 3221 insurance law, 3221(l) insurance law, 4303 insurance law, 365-a social services law, 365-a(2) social services law