For most individuals,oral health is not a high priority when thinking about maintaining overall wellness, yet poor oral health has been linked to conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. There may be dentists that will tell you that regular preventive dental care is as important as diet and exercise in contributing to optimal overall health. Regular dental visits help enable the early diagnosis of potentially serious health conditions.These same regular visits help in reducing the likelihood of developing serious systemic health issues. In addition, regular dental visits have also been shown to lower long-term,out-of-pocket dental care costs for most consumers.
Earlier this year, Guardian Life’s report, the Future of Dentistry: Improving America’s Oral Health and Wellness,highlighted that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 80 percent of the U.S. population have had at least one cavity by age 34 and more than 50 percent show signs of periodontal (gum) disease[1]. The CDC estimates that $6 billion in lost worker productivity annually is attributed to oral disease. Also notable is that the American Dental Association notes that emergency room visits for conditions related to dental disease account for nearly $2 billion in annual costs[2].
The best way to keep dental costs down is to invest in preventive oral care by way of acquiring effective dental insurance coverage. Maintaining good dental care habits such as visiting a dentist twice a year, brushing twice daily for two minutes, and flossing at least once a day, are essential habits that can help ensure better oral health. as well as general health. The upside is that check-ups and cleanings may cost the patient little or nothing when covered by dental insurance. In the long run these regular visits may lead to savings when contrasted with the cost of unexpected and more invasive episodic treatments such as fillings, root canals, crowns and tooth extractions. As families think about their financial outlook and overall health in 2020, it is especially important to consider the long-term benefits of purchasing dental insurance this year. Having dental insurance can be your ally in making good oral health easier to maintain.
It is unfortunate that oral health disparities continue to exist and are profound in the U.S. for many racial and ethnic groups. The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos,which focused on the oral health status of Hispanic and Latino populations, found that younger participants (18-44) had the most unfilled dental cavities. The percentage of participants with one or more unfilled cavities was highest among Central Americans and lowest among participants of Dominican background. Moreover, in the two oldest age groups, 45-64 and 65-74, about three-fourths of participants were missing at least one tooth. Based on this data, the Hispanic community stands to gain a great deal from affordable and accessible dental insurance[1].
Despite any known benefits of good oral care, investing in dental insurance can be overlooked or deprioritized, with the cost of dental care being the top reason given for infrequent dental visits across all age groups. In an effort to broaden access to quality dental care, Guardian Life, an insurance company in business for more than 155 years,helps provide affordable dental insurance. Guardian’s Dental plans are available via workplace employee benefits packages or through direct-to-consumer insurance products, such as on the Health Exchange Marketplace with premiums for Floridian adults starting at $8.06 a month[2].
Many Floridians who take advantage of the Affordable Care Act’s enrollment can easily add dental insurance at the time of enrollment. ACA enrollment runs now through December 15, 2019 for coverage effective on January 1, 2020. To learn more about enrollment or to receive help in choosing a dental plan, please visit dentalexchange.guardiandirect.com/our-plans/florida/
Angel Sanchez-Figueras, D.D.S. is a Dental Director from Guardian Life and practiced dentistry for more than 35 years. He is passionate about educating the community about the importance of oral health. The article represents his views based on his experience. This article is for informational purposes only and is not dental care advice and should not be substituted for regular consultation with your dentist.
DentalGuard Insurance is underwritten and issued by The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, New York, NY. Products are not available in all states. Policy limitations and exclusions apply. Optional riders and/or features may incur additional costs. Plan documents are the final arbiter of coverage.This policy provides DENTAL insurance only.Policy Form #GP-1-DG2000, et al.Individual Dental Insurance products are underwritten by The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, New York, New York or by one of its wholly owned subsidiaries. Products are not available in all states. Policy limitations and exclusions apply. The actual limitations and exclusions that apply to your Dental Plan are governed by the policy forms approved for use in your state. Please refer to your policy for a complete list of limitations and exclusions. In the event of a conflict between this document and the language stated in your Guardian insurance policy, the language of the policy shall control. This policy provides DENTAL insurance only.Policy Form IP-DEN-16 ET. AL.
[1] The Future of Dentistry: Improving America’s Oral Health & Wellness, Guardian Life,2019
[1] “ADA: Dental-Related ER Visits Rising in the U.S.”, ADA Health Policy Resources Center, July 2, 2013
