Tips for Choosing an In-Network Provider
Whether you’re looking for a dentist close to home, one with great recommendations from patients, or a dentist office with flexible office hours that fit your schedule, we make it easy to find dental care providers. Learn how to find an in-network provider and why choosing an in-network dentist can help you save money. Talk about something worth smiling about! What Does “In-Network Dentist” Mean? An in-network dentist means that your dentist is part of your dental plan, and they have agreed to provide you with dental care at your plan’s rate. An out-of-network dentist is separate from your dental plan and has not agreed to pre-established rates for treatment. You may choose to see an out-of-network dentist, but you may pay end up paying more out of your own pocket. The difference in fees between in- and out-of-network dentists is often called a “discount” or “network savings.” Those with […]
How Mental Health Impacts Oral Health
Did you know that your mental health can affect your oral health? It’s easy to understand how brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, you might not realize that your emotional well-being can also affect your teeth and gums. Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety can affect oral health in various ways, and it’s essential to consider mental health in oral health care. Keep reading to learn more about the connection between mental health and oral health. Stress and Oral Health Stress and anxiety are common mental health challenges that affect many people globally. Stress can make your heart rate increase, breathing shallow, and blood pressure spike, leading to clenching and grinding of teeth. When an excess amount of the stress hormone cortisol is found in the mouth, you’re more susceptible to chronic diseases, including gum disease.2 It has also been proven to contribute to: Inflammation […]
Understanding Alcohol and Oral Health
During Alcohol Awareness Month in April, take time to learn how alcohol impacts your mouth, gums, and teeth. Understanding the effects alcohol can have on your oral health is essential, as it can help you make more informed choices when it comes to drinking. What Is Considered Normal When It Comes to Moderation? According to the USDA dietary guidelines for Americans1, adults of legal drinking age should limit intake to two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women. One drink can be defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces or a “shot” of 80-proof (40% alcohol content) distilled spirits or liquor like gin, rum, vodka, or whiskey. Dry Mouth and Gum Disease Consuming alcohol causes your body to become dehydrated, which can lead to dry mouth. Without enough saliva in your […]
Dental Coverage and How It Benefits Employees
Benefits are essential for employee happiness, well-being, and job satisfaction. Dental coverage boosts the value of an overall benefits and wellness package. According to a survey by the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP), more than half of employees who receive dental coverage through their employer rate dental benefits as “very important.” The key to productivity and morale is employee health and well-being. With dental care impacting both oral and overall health, employers can better retain current employees and attract prospective hires with a complete benefits package that includes dental coverage. During regular exams, dentists can identify symptoms of more than 120 diseases, including anemia, diabetes, kidney failure, and heart disease. The need for extensive dental treatments and overall coverage costs for employers decreases, as well as employees’ out-of-pocket expenses when health conditions are caught early and treated. Refresher on Common Dental Benefit Terms Make sure you’re getting the most […]
Gum Disease 101
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, is a very common condition among adults. However, you may be wondering, “What is it?”, “What are the causes?”, and “Is it preventable?”. In recognition of February’s Gum Disease Awareness Month, we’ll help you brush up on your knowledge of risk factors, symptoms, and prevention so you can take action to protect your smile for years to come! What Is Gum Disease? Gum disease is an infection of the gums that damages, and in some cases destroys, the bone and soft tissue surrounding your teeth. Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and food particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless film known as plaque. When plaque isn’t removed by brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, it begins to harden and form tartar. Only dental professionals can remove tartar. The disease can range from a mild stage, […]
