Teeth are important. Not only are they essential for chewing and eating, but they play a pretty significant role in our self-esteem. We face the world with our smiles, and feeling under-confident about your teeth can make you hide your smile. While aesthetics are important, the health of your teeth and mouth are even more important. A healthy mouth often translates into a beautiful smile. A healthy mouth is also critical for many other reasons, and just like any part of our bodies, care needs to be taken. More and more studies show a direct link between oral health and overall health.
Signs You Need to See a Dentist
We often forget about our teeth until a major issue arises. But maintaining your oral health takes effort each day. Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing once a day is a great place to start. Make it a habit. Here are some signs that indicate you may need to see your dentist.
Pain or Swelling from a toothache, in the mouth, face or neck, or sensitive teeth can be a sign of a severe underlying issue.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums can be a sign of gingivitis which, if left untreated, can progress into periodontitis or gum disease. This can lead to loss of the tissue that supports your teeth. Current research has linked gum disease to other medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Many things, including medication side-effects, can cause Dry Mouth, but no matter what the cause, it needs to be addressed. Saliva production helps wash away bacteria in the mouth and on the surface of teeth. Dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and can be treated.
Mouth Sores that last for over a week or never seem to heal properly can be a sign of disease or infection.
Should You Carry Dental Insurance?
Less than half of adults visit their dentist regularly. For many, the cost can be the main hindrance. This is one of the reasons why having dental insurance is so important. Regular check-ups and preventative maintenance are the best lines of defense when it comes to oral health issues. Keeping potential issues under control can also aid in preventing other health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Dental insurance is typically offered with three different tiers of coverage: preventative, basic, and major. Each type of dental service will fall under one of these tiers. Individuals and groups can select plans that fit their anticipated needs. Varying coverage on each tier is offered on different plans. For example, a plan may offer 100% coverage for preventative procedures, 80% for basic, and 50% for major. Preventative treatments often include routine exams, bitewing x-rays, fluoride treatment, space maintainers, and sealants. Basic coverage often includes emergency care for pain relief, amalgam fillings, endodontics, and periodontics. Major procedures are usually crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges. Orthodontia is typically offered as separate coverage.
Prevention is the Key to Your Oral Health
When you have dental insurance, you are more likely to take advantage of the preventative measures it covers. Seeing your dentist twice a year, and having your teeth professionally cleaned can help catch any changes or issues in your mouth early. Whether you need help finding dental insurance coverage for yourself individually or for a group (typically two or more non-married individuals), AIS, Inc. can help. They will sit down with you to personally discuss your specific needs and budget to find a package that works for you. They don’t offer cookie-cutter options. AIS, Inc. will provide a unique package tailored to your specific needs. Call (913) 397-9400 or request an appointment online today to get the coverage you need to protect your oral health.