Dental Insurance

We all have reasons to avoid the dentist.  What we don’t know is how this will effect our overall health.  Your Dentist can uncover many things about your health other than issues with your teeth.  Here are 10 things to think about before and during your Dental visit.

1. First you need to find a reputable Dentist.  You can do this by referral, your insurance carrier or sources such as the ADA.  Your insurance Agent will also be able to help guide you through this process.

2. Most people go to the Dentist without knowing what is covered by insurance.  You need to make sure you understand your plan and know what is covered.  Some procedures such as X-rays may only be allowed once a year.  You need to make sure the Dentist only does this on the date allowed.

3. Does your plan have waiting periods?  Most individual dental plans have either a 6 or 12 month waiting period for minor and major procedures.  Some plans have both.  Make sure you are aware of the waiting periods prior to your visit.

4. All of us need to have dental X-rays in order for the Dentist to determine if you have any cavities or tooth decay.  Some of us may be concerned about the exposure to the radiation from the X-ray.  This radiation exposure is extremely low and you should benefit more from having the X-ray than if you choose not too, consult your dentist prior to receiving the X-rays.

5. You only have one chance to make a first impression.  When we meet someone we will look at the eyes first and then the teeth.  by having semi annual or annual cleanings your Dentist can insure that you will have a beautiful smile so you can give a lasting impression.

6. Your Dentist will check for many other disorders than tooth health.  This is why it is recommended that you see the Dentist every six months.

7. If you have worn or chipped teeth this may be a sign of stress.  Your dentist can determine the extent of the damage by taking X-rays.  The Dentist may fit you with a custom mouth guard to wear while your sleeping.

8. A side effect of gum disease in women is premature and low weight births.  Studies suggest that pregnant women with serious gum disease, also called periodontitis, may have these issues.  Research is ongoing.   “If you want a healthy and predictable pregnancy, it makes sense to take care of your periodontal health as early as possible,” says Donald S. Clem, DDS, a periodontist in Fullerton, Calif., and president of the American Academy of Periodontology.

9. Gum disease may increase your risk of heart disease.  Heart disease can include strokes and heart attacks, because of this you should notify your Dentist of and cardiovascular disease or and family history with these conditions.

10. Your Dentist may take your blood pressure during the visit.  This will allow the Dentist to determine if you have hypertension and if you need treatment.  The Dentist should also monitor your blood pressure levels during complex procedures.  The American Heart Association states that hypertensions is classified as 140/90mmHG or above.  Possible side effects of hypertension are: heart failure, stroke, heart attacks, kidney failure and premature death.  Those at risk are:  smokers, drugs, nutrition, alcohol, diabetes, obesity and low physical activity.

Finally, you need to consult with an insurance professional in order to get the right coverage for your dental needs.  Please give us a call and we can address all your concerns about the plan and monthly premium.  Below is an example of Assurant Health’s dental plan.