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 to Keep Your Smile Healthy as You Age
Did you know that your teeth can say a lot about your age? Aging can have a noticeable impact on your smile. As you get older, the appearance of your teeth is typically darker and duller. In addition, receding gums give the lips less support, making you look older. Effects of poor oral health can go beyond a person’s mouth. Research continues to show a connection between oral and overall health. Gum disease has been linked to several systemic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. Luckily, it is never too late to form better oral health habits that benefit your overall health. Take a moment during National Healthy Aging Month to learn more about oral health and how to keep your smile in tip-top shape. Four ways your smile can change as you age General wear and tear Dry mouth caused by medications Shifting teeth—can cause receding gums and make them more […]
Understanding Your Dental Benefits
Dental benefits go hand in hand with good oral and overall health. However, 46% of adults aged 30 years or older in the United States show signs of gum disease.1 Finding the right dental plan and understanding how to get the most from your benefits can help you care for your oral health while staying true to your budget. Learn how you can take advantage of the benefits of preventive care, schedule treatments at the right time and save money. Comparing Dental Coverage Options Choosing dental coverage that’s right for you and your family starts with looking at your needs. One way to do that is to review how you used your dental coverage in previous years –– including trips to the dentist and completed procedures –– and evaluate your current health conditions. Compare the dental coverage options based on the type of services you need. There are three common […]
Delicious holiday treats to share and care for oral health
The holidays bring family and friends together and often, gatherings are filled with sweet treats of the season. This holiday, offer healthier options that are tasty as well as healthier for your teeth. Chocolate covered strawberries with pistachios Strawberries are available year-round and are a tooth-friendly treat when you choose dark chocolate. It’s lower in sugar than milk or white chocolate and offsets the sweetness of the strawberry. Pistachios are high in antioxidants and can help improve blood vessel health in the gum tissue. Easy-to-make, these dark chocolate-covered strawberries with pistachios will leave your guests smiling. Cinnamon spiced pumpkin muffins and breads A well-known spice, cinnamon has been shown to be beneficial to your oral health by helping to prevent inflammation and fight bacteria. Pumpkin contains Vitamin A which promotes the production of saliva and improves symptoms of dry mouth. Its magnesium content can help prevent the development of gum […]
Diabetic related health problems can occur in your mouth. Understand what to look for and how to help prevent oral health issues if you have diabetes.
Diabetes affects more than 30 million people in the United States and one in four of them do not know they have it.1 It affects your body’s ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that allows your body to turn sugar into energy. Excess sugar in your blood can lead to health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, kidney disease and oral health issues. Oral health problems associated with diabetes. Diabetics are more likely to experience gum disease at an earlier age than those who do not have the disease. Periodontal disease can also change blood glucose levels, making diabetes more difficult to manage. Understand how too much blood sugar can cause pain and infections in your mouth causing problems for your: Teeth. Due to high sugar or glucose blood levels, harmful bacteria can grow which can cause bad breath and also cause a soft, sticky […]
