Children and Tooth Development
February is Children’s Dental Health Month, a great time to learn more about maintaining your baby’s dental health. It’s also a great time to learn about your child’s oral health during tooth development. Your Baby’s Teeth Timeline Before any teeth present themselves, clean your baby’s gums and mouth with a wet washcloth after eating and drinking. It also is important to take your child to the dentist no later than their first birthday. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child see a dentist after their first tooth appears, which is usually between six and 12 months old. Once teeth emerge, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush to brush in soft, gentle circles twice a day with a small smear of fluoride toothpaste. Your child will continue to have baby teeth emerge up until their third birthday, and they will keep that set of teeth until around age 6. Baby […]
8 Ways to Celebrate National Smile Month
Smiling is a natural pick-me-up. Really! When you smile, endorphins are released that boost your mood and reduce your stress. Here’s a list of tips to keep your oral health on track during National Smile Month this June. Brush up on the facts. Brushing your teeth twice a day may seem like a no-brainer, but do you know why it’s so important? Plaque can build up on your teeth throughout the day and during the night, causing damage and decay if not properly removed. Counteract this buildup with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste as you brush in the morning and before bed. Find your favorite way to floss. Food particles can get caught between teeth and cause gum inflammation and tooth decay. Do your part to maintain a healthy smile and use dental floss or a water flosser to help keep your mouth free of plaque. Send bad breath […]
Save Money with a Network Dentist
TruAssure gives members access to an extensive nationwide dental network.* When TruAssure members visit a network dentist, they can save between 20 to 40 percent on their dental treatment. Network dentists accept TruAssure’s allowed fees as payment in full and cannot charge patients the difference between TruAssure’s allowed fee and their submitted fee. The below chart is an example of how much you can save when you visit a network dentist. Network dentists cannot bill the difference between the TruAssure allowed fee and their submitted fee. It is easy to see how visiting a network dentist can save you money. Visit TruAssure.com to find a network dentist today. *All TruAssure dental plans, other than Basic and Preferred dental plans, are offered in association with the DenteMax Plus dental network arrangement, which includes participating dentists from the United Concordia, DenteMax and Connection dental networks in all states but North Carolina, […]
Understanding Pre-Treatment Estimates
When planning for any dental treatment, it’s important to know the costs involved – understanding what is covered by your dental provider and the difference for which you will be financially responsible. A pre-treatment estimate is a free service that TruAssure provides to its members which details an approximate idea of how much a procedure will cost before it’s performed. This can help you and your dentist make a better-informed decision about your treatment options. How to Obtain a Pre-Treatment Estimate Getting a pre-estimate is easy. The process starts with contacting your dentist, who will then submit a proposed treatment plan and supporting X-rays and documents to your insurance provider. Once the documents and benefits are reviewed, you’ll receive an estimate which outlines your out-of-pocket costs. The estimate is based on the type of dental plan you have, your eligibility and current plan benefits and the amount remaining in your […]
Toothpaste and Mouthwash 101
Choosing the right dental hygiene products plays a significant role in your oral health. That’s why it’s so important to consider what products to choose. Understanding the different types of toothpaste and mouthwash, including their ingredients, is key to determining what’s best for you. Key Toothpaste Ingredients Fortunately, there’s a range of options for you to choose from when it comes to toothpaste. One main decision is whether to select a paste, gel or powder toothpaste. All are effective in cleaning your teeth well and contain the same basic ingredients, such as flavoring agents, which gives toothpaste its minty fresh scent. They’re also composed of a cleaning and polishing agent that helps remove plaque, debris and surface stains on your teeth. When choosing which type of toothpaste is right for you, consult your dentist, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gum disease. Supplementary Toothpaste Ingredients Depending on your age, […]
