Wondering whether regularly getting a dental checkup will save you money in the long run? Read on to learn more. According to data collected by the National Association of Dental Plans, about 77% of Americans have private dental insurance. Some procedures, like dental checkups, which is a form of preventive care, and cosmetic dentistry, may not be covered by your insurance provider even if they are beneficial.
Preventive care is the most effective method to protect your oral cavity and ensure wellness. Even if you do not have coverage for preventive care, the benefits far outweigh the cost.
How
Spending time and resources on preventive care might not seem like a good saving tip. However, if a dental problem gets worse, it will require more comprehensive treatment. If the procedure is more complex, the dental work will cost more. Some patients may have medical insurance, but in most cases, they will typically pay a percentage of the price of the procedure. Even if patients have to cover the cost of x-rays and fillings, these procedures can save them money compared to getting a root canal or gum disease treatment due to poor oral health.
Learning opportunities
Taking preventive measures is an active approach to health and wellness. Scheduling regular dental appointments is part of preventive care. During the dental checkup, the dentist will examine the oral cavity, especially the teeth, for any changes that could signal an issue. Patients can use the dental check-up as a chance to ask questions about their dental health or dental hygiene practices. They can ask the dentist about other techniques or products related to their oral care regimen — like toothpaste or toothbrushes.
Oral cancer prevention
Every tissue in the oral cavity can develop cancer, including the tongue and the throat. Oral cancer is prevalent and often overlooked. It is the sixth most prevalent cancer around the world based on stats from the National Institutes of Health. Oral cancer affects around 91,200 Americans and about 37,000 new cases are diagnosed yearly.
Oral cancer has a very high death rate of approximately 8,000 deaths a year. This rate is due to late diagnosis since the cancer is typically discovered only after it has advanced and spread to various other areas of the body. During the dental checkup, the dentist can perform oral cancer screenings or patients can book a specific appointment for that purpose.
Overall health benefits
Preventive care can prevent more serious problems. There is a relationship between the mouth and the body. Oral health may benefit or negatively impact overall health. Research has shown that advanced gum disease increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, while gum disease can also be considered a marker of diabetes. A toothache can worsen into a life-threatening infection without prompt treatment. Fortunately, these conditions are preventable.
Learn more about preventive care
You should be proactive about your health. This means brushing and flossing regularly and going to the dentist for a dental checkup. If it has been six months or more since your last checkup, contact our office today and set up an appointment.
Request an appointment or call Sweet Smiles Mt Pleasant at 262-276-4601 for an appointment in our Mt Pleasant office.
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