Did you know that you can easily prevent gum disease if you just look in your wallet? That’s right; your dental insurance can make it easier to see your dentist, get the care you need, and avoid spending out of pocket for extensive periodontal treatment. You may not think bleeding gums are a big issue, but they are, and they can become a real problem if you don’t take steps to stop it. Learn how you can use your available coverage to lower your risk of gum disease and pay less.
The Importance of Preventing Gum Disease
Left unchecked, gum disease can start as mild inflammation with reversible symptoms but can eventually become a more serious issue that puts your teeth, bone, and gums at risk. Gingivitis causes swelling, tenderness, and bleeding gums, but regular cleanings and a more meticulous oral hygiene routine can prevent these issues from worsening, even stopping them altogether.
However, if too much time passes, periodontitis is the next stage, making professional treatment the only solution for better oral health. At-home remedies can’t manage bad breath, loose teeth, gum recession, changes in your bite, or bone loss. Only a periodontist can control the problem and prevent it from spreading to other areas of your body.
How Can Dental Insurance Help Prevent Gum Disease?
Most dental insurance companies cover preventive care at 100%. This includes regular checkups and cleanings. As long as you commit to seeing your dentist twice a year, you’ll lower your risk of gum disease and avoid paying anything out of pocket! If you do show signs of periodontitis and need a specialist to treat it, you can still count on your dental plan to help you save. In fact, your insurer may cover 50-80% of treatment, depending on your case.
But don’t expect your benefits to last forever; they’re usually only good for one year. So don’t wait to get the care you need. If you do, you’ll pay more when you have to meet your deductible again.
You’re already paying for your dental plan, so why not use it to your advantage to prevent gum disease? Your oral health will enjoy the benefits, and so will your wallet.
About the Author
Dr. John C. Tunnell is a board-certified periodontist who earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He completed a three-year residency program at Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry, training exclusively in periodontics, dental implants, oral medicine, and IV sedation. At Central Perio, he helps patients with gum disease take back their oral health. Need an expert who can restore your soft tissues? Visit our website or call (469) 640–6730 to schedule an appointment.