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I have dental insurance through work. It is an HMO. Anyway, I get two cleanings a year for free. I have yet to use the plan and was considering going in for my cleaning because I have not seen a dentist in over two years. My teeth are stained even though I brush and floss daily. I do not drink coffee or tea, nor do I smoke, but I do eat food that may stain my teeth. If I go in for a good cleaning, will that help remove the stains and make my teeth brighter?

Reply:  Basic dental cleaning can help remove surface stains from your teeth but may not provide significant whitening effects. For more noticeable results, you may want to consider professional teeth whitening treatments or over-the-counter whitening products recommended by your dentist. However, regular cleanings can help prevent further staining and maintain good oral health.

So I am still very young, at only eighteen. My teeth are in terrible shape. I always had bad teeth. Even my baby teeth were cavity-ridden. Now, with my adult teeth, I have already had seven cavities that needed to be filled.

My mom was paying for my dental work out of her pocket since we never had any dental insurance, but she told me today that she would no longer be paying my dental bills and that I better start taking care of my teeth.

The thing is, I brush three times a day most days. It is not like I do not try to take care of my teeth. They are just weak or something. My teeth are now okay since I saw the dentist three months ago. But what if I keep getting cavities like I have in the past? How am I going to pay my dental billing?

Reply:  You are 18, so you can buy dental insurance if you have none. You can review a dental HMO insurance plan for a lower-cost dental insurance option. Dental HMOs are more affordable and generally offer preventive dental care for free to negligible cost. Regurally preventive dental and good at-home dental habits will help you avoid having more extensive dental care needs. 

I do not have dental insurance currently, which sucks right now since I have a terrible toothache. I thought I could go to the hospital emergency to have them just pull the bad tooth out. I found out they do not do that. I was offered some painkillers, which helped a little, but I was told I would need to go to a dentist to have the tooth pulled or fixed. What can I do? I do not have dental insurance.

Reply: You have a few options:

1) Buy a Dental HMO insurance plan, as they typically do not have waiting periods for tooth extractions. However, the effective date is typically the start of the following month you buy it, depending on their cut-off date. Also, you should call the plan provider you picked to ensure they have available appointments once your dental insurance is effective.

2) You can buy a dental discount plan. A discount plan is not insurance but does help you save money on all your dental care needs, providing you with discounted rates. Most discount plans start the next business day after buying it. Like an HMO you should call the plan providers to confirm they are still accepting the plan and that they have available appointments to take you in immediately after getting one.

3) You may want to see if you have any local dental schools. Dental schools provide services at much lower cost, but appointments can be difficult, and you may have to wait a while before they can get you in.

Right now, I am only 15. I have a huge overbite that my parents will not fix, saying there was nothing wrong with my teeth and that they are not going to spend the money they don’t have to fix good teeth. I have been fighting with them for a long time, but they do not care how I feel. I want to get braces, and I will get a part-time job to save my own money. Can I get dental Insurance at 16? 

My parents said that I could not and that when I was 18, it would be too late for me to get dental Insurance for braces since they do not cover adult braces. Is this true? Please advise. Even if I have to wait until I am 18, am I going to be forced to pay for braces without any Dental Insurance?

Reply: Braces can be costly, even with dental Insurance, which helps reduce the cost of braces. So if your parents tell you they can not afford them, maybe take them at their word. It is good that you are willing to pay for the cost alone instead of continuing to fight with your parents, as that is getting you nowhere.

Some dental HMO Insurance plans will let a minor have their plan as an individual, but only a few, and it would be about calling each company up and verifying before buying. You would have better luck getting dental Insurance when you are 18. Your parents are only partly correct when they say dental Insurance doesn’t cover braces for adults. Many insurance plans are like that. However, there are many more that do provide orthodontic benefits for adults. It comes down to reading the terms and conditions of the plan to verify if it allows for the benefits you are looking for.   

Also, any part-time job you may get might provide some dental insurance and medical benefits. If you get a job that does, you should review what is provided to you on the off chance that it also has orthodontic benefits. 

Did you know (according to the CDC) that one in four adults aged 20 to 64 currently has cavities? Tips to Avoid Dental Cavities:

1. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
3. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks like soda and candy.
4. Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria.
5. Chew sugar-free gum after meals to help stimulate saliva production and neutralize acid in your mouth.
6. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
7. Consider getting dental sealants to protect your teeth from decay.
8. Use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your teeth.
9. Don’t use tobacco products, as they increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
10. Consider getting a dental filling if you have a cavity to prevent further damage to your tooth.

According to the CDC, Children from low-income families are twice as likely to have cavities as children from higher-income families. Children aged five to 19 years from low-income families are twice as likely (25%) to have dental cavities as children from higher-income households (11%).

Many people with limited financial resources struggle to access quality dental care, which can have serious consequences for their oral health and overall well-being. Dental insurance plans that are accessible online can help bridge this gap by making dental care more affordable and accessible to those who need it most. By offering comprehensive coverage for routine check-ups, cleanings, x-rays, and other dental procedures at a reduced cost, online dental insurance plans can help low-income families and individuals protect their oral health and prevent serious dental issues from developing.

The Prevention of bad breath is easier than you may think. Except for chronic bad breath, here are some helpful tips to stop bad breath before it starts. 

• Have good dental and oral health care habits, such as brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily. 
• If you eat foods that cause bad breath, have mouthwash handy, or chew on some parsley after the meal. 
• When brushing your teeth, brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper. Your tongue holds bacteria that can cause bad breath.
• Ensure you see your dentist once every six months or as directed by your dentist to maintain good teeth and gum health. 
• The main reason for bad breath is poor dental health. Dental decay and gum disease can cause you to have bad breath. 
• Avoid doing things that cause bad breath, such as smoking. Smoking can also cause many other health issues, so do your best to quit if you are a smoker. 
• Eating food known to cause bad breath, such as garlic, onions, cabbage, certain spices, coffee, and even dairy products, can cause bad breath for some people. 
• Avoid eating food that causes bad breath when you want to ensure your breath is fresh.

Online Dental Insurance is an excellent way to ensure you can access quality dental care when needed. Dental insurance can help you prevent bad breath by providing regular dental checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral hygiene. With routine dental checkups, your dentist can detect and treat any dental issues causing bad breath, such as gum disease or dental decay. 

Additionally, online dental insurance can provide you access to a network of dentists and specialists who can offer customized treatment plans to address any dental concerns. This can include everything from teeth whitening to orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners. 

By taking advantage of online dental insurance, you can ensure that your dental health is well-maintained, which can help to prevent bad breath and other dental issues. With various plans and coverage options available, you can find the right dental insurance plan to fit your budget and unique dental needs.

According to a MetLife Study, many parents must follow recommended guidelines for brushing, flossing, and other dental health care habits for optimal pediatric oral health. Nearly a quarter of the parents surveyed, 23%, have been told by a dentist or hygienist that their child was at risk for tooth decay, and 47% of the parents studied have not spoken to their pediatrician about their child’s teeth and may not be making the connection between their child’s oral health and their overall health care.

Some recommended pediatric dental care include:

• Regular dental check-ups.
• Proper brushing and flossing techniques.
• A balanced and healthy diet.
• Fluoride treatments.
• Dental sealants.
• Early orthodontic evaluations.

It’s also essential for parents to encourage their children to maintain good oral hygiene habits and to limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s dental health, it’s always best to consult with a pediatric dentist.

Preventative care is essential, even on baby teeth. Preventive dental care can often go undone due to the rising cost and lack of dental insurance. Parents who do not feel they can afford dental insurance and do not receive dental benefits through work can often put off preventive dental care. Not because they want to, but simply put, they can not afford it. However, even on baby teeth, preventative care is essential because even a little cavity can cause significant pain later.

Why is Preventative Dental Care for Baby Teeth?

Preventative dental care for baby teeth is essential because it helps to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy. Baby teeth play a crucial role in your child’s oral development, as they help to maintain space for permanent teeth and aid in speech development. Additionally, healthy baby teeth can contribute to a child’s overall health and well-being, as poor oral health has been linked to various other health issues. Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and oral hygiene education can help prevent cavities and other dental problems in baby teeth and establish good habits that will benefit your child’s oral health for years.

I do not have dental insurance and need a low-cost dental plan since I may need to have my bridge fixed. I only have a little money and was considering getting a discount dental plan. Are discount plans good to get? 

Reply: Dental discount plans are an excellent way to reduce your dental care cost without having any waiting periods or maximum limitations that some dental insurance plans have. It is essential to remember that dental discount plans are not insurance, and they work much as the name implies. Discount plans provide discounted savings on all dental care a plan provider offers. There is no outside saving for a dentist who is not a plan provider. Therefore, make sure there is a plan dentist that you would want to go to before buying a discount plan. 

One common mistake is not choosing a provider that can provide service to young children. Or you choose a dental provider that may provide services to children but does not have a kid-friendly office. This becomes crucial, especially with dental insurance, since some plans only let you go to one provider for the whole family. Therefore, seeing a dentist who can provide dental care services regardless of age and offers an environment that benefits both children and adults becomes essential.

If you are searching for a new dentist and you have special conditions that you need to address (such as physical handicaps, dental fears, Autism, etc.) that may affect your dental services and or care, make sure you go to a dentist that can handle your special needs requirements.

If you have a child with ADD or are on the spectrum, you should ensure that the dentist is experienced in treating pediatric patients and has expertise in treating patients with special needs. Ask if the dentist has specialized training or certifications in treating patients with disabilities. Additionally, inquire about any accommodations that the dental office can provide to make your child’s visit more comfortable and less stressful.

Likewise, it would help if you told your dentist about any medical conditions you may have.

It would help if you told your dentist about any medical conditions you may have because some can impact your oral health and the dental treatments you receive. For example, if you have diabetes, you may be more prone to gum disease and require more frequent cleanings. Certain medications can also affect your oral health and may require adjustments in your dental treatment plan. By sharing your medical history with your dentist, they can better tailor your care to meet your individual needs and ensure that you receive safe and effective treatment.

If you have current dental insurance, but you are no longer happy with your current dentist, or your current dentist is no longer accepting your dental insurance, it may be time to search for a new dental provider. With current insurance, you want to ensure that the new dental office either accepts your dental insurance plan or that you have a dental insurance plan that lets you choose your provider.

For example, if you have a dental HMO plan, you must select a dentist within the plan’s network of dental providers. That means you can still change dental office; however, you must still make sure you go to a dentist who is a provider of the plan. Choosing a network provider of a dental PPO plan is also a good idea.

Choosing a network provider of a dental PPO plan can be beneficial as these providers have agreed to charge the insurance company a lower rate for services. This can translate into lower out-of-pocket costs for you as the patient. Additionally, some PPO plans allow you to see out-of-network providers at a higher cost. Choosing a network provider ensures you receive the maximum benefit from your dental insurance plan.

When shopping for a new dentist, knowing some background information is essential. One key question to ask and find out about is how long the dentist has been in practice. How many years has the dental practice been in the exact location?

Knowing how long a dentist has been in practice can give you an idea of their experience and expertise. The longer a dentist has been practicing, the more likely they will have seen various dental cases and developed a better understanding of how to treat different dental problems. Additionally, a dentist who has been in practice for a while is more likely to have established a good reputation within the community, which can be reassuring to patients.

Consider asking for references or using websites like Yelp, Google, and Annie’s List. The more you know about the dentist and the dental practice, the better off you will be.

When looking for a new dentist, there are several other questions that you may want to ask, such as:

• What types of insurance do they accept?
• What are their hours of operation?
• Do they offer emergency dental services?
• What is their experience and training with specific dental procedures?
• Do they use the latest dental technologies and techniques?

Choosing the right dentist for you and your family can take time, but it is well worth the effort.

Sugar can be bad for your teeth because the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, producing acid that can contribute to tooth decay. When you consume sugary foods and drinks frequently and do not clean your teeth properly, the acid produced by the bacteria can weaken and erode your tooth enamel, leading to cavities and other dental problems. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet and practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, to keep your teeth healthy.

The recommended daily sugar intake varies depending on age, gender, activity level, and other factors. However, the American Heart Association recommends that adult women limit their added sugar intake to six teaspoons (24 grams) per day, and adult men limit theirs to no more than nine teaspoons (36 grams) per day. Remember that many foods and drinks, including soda, candy, baked goods, cereals, and yogurts, contain added sugars. It’s important to read food labels and be mindful of sugar intake to maintain a healthy diet.

Around 92% of adults aged 20-64 have experienced dental cavities/tooth decay in at least one of their permanent teeth. To tackle the growing problem of tooth decay, researchers from University College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, both in the UK, say the World Health Organization’s recommendation of a maximum of 10% total daily calories from free sugar should be reduced to 5%, with 3% as a target.

Pregnancy is when women need to take extra care of their health, including their dental health. However, studies have shown that pregnant women are less likely to receive proper dental care than non-pregnant women. There are several reasons for this:

1. Many pregnant women may not be aware of the importance of dental care during pregnancy.
2. There is a common misconception that dental treatment during pregnancy is not safe.
3. Financial barriers may prevent pregnant women from accessing dental care.

These factors may contribute to pregnant women not receiving the necessary dental care. Improving dental services for pregnant women in the US is essential. There is a need to raise awareness about the importance of proper dental care during pregnancy and ensure affordable and accessible dental services are available to all pregnant women. Doing so can help prevent potential health complications for both the mother and the baby and promote better overall health outcomes for women and their families.

Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. If left untreated, it can cause tooth loss. It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene that allows bacteria in plaque to build up on the teeth and gums. Symptoms include swollen, bleeding gums, loose teeth, and bad breath. Treatment options may consist of deep cleaning, medication, and, in severe cases, surgery. It’s essential to see a dentist to prevent further damage if you suspect you have periodontitis.

The International and American Associations for Dental Research (IADR/AADR) have published a paper titled “Global Burden of Periodontitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression. In 2010, severe periodontitis was the sixth most prevalent condition, affecting 743 million people worldwide. Between 1990 and 2010, the global age-standardized prevalence of severe periodontitis was static at 11.2%. The age-standardized incidence of severe periodontitis in 2010 was 701 cases per 100,000 person-years, a non-significant increase from the 1990 incidence of severe periodontitis. Prevalence increased gradually with age, showing a steep increase between the third and fourth decades of life, driven by a peak in incidence at around 38 years of age. There were considerable variations in prevalence and incidence between regions and countries.

Here are some tips to help you avoid periodontitis:

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria.
2. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help detect and prevent early signs of gum disease.
3. Quit smoking: Smoking can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections, including gum disease.
4. Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet can help boost your immune system and prevent gum disease.
5. Manage stress: Stress can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight infections.

Following these tips can help maintain good oral health and reduce your risk of developing periodontitis.

Despite a policy focus on expanding access to care for adults with developmental disabilities, this vulnerable population continues to have significant dental diseases. 

In the October 2014 issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association, researchers from Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine report on the first large-scale survey to investigate factors influencing at-home oral care provided by caregivers to adults with developmental disabilities. The study findings suggest that policy initiatives must improve support for caregivers and address access to care.

When highering an at-home care provider, check to make sure that: 

• The Caregiver providing at-home oral care to adults with developmental disabilities must understand their patients’ needs and challenges. 
• The Caregiver should be able to assist with brushing and flossing and also be aware of any special needs or accommodations that may be necessary. 
• In addition to basic oral hygiene, Caregivers may need to help their patients with oral medications or assist with appointments to see a dentist or oral health professional. 

Caregivers should communicate well with their patients and their healthcare team to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care.

It’s common knowledge that neglecting dental hygiene can result in tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. However, failing to brush your teeth regularly can also have implications for more severe health issues. In recent years, some less well-known and severe conditions have been linked to poor dental hygiene: Alzheimer’s, pancreatic cancer, and heart disease.

Alzheimer’s: Some evidence suggests a link between poor dental health and Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that individuals with gum disease and periodontitis may be at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life. It’s thought that the inflammation caused by gum disease may trigger inflammation in the brain, which can lead to cognitive decline. While more research is needed to confirm the link, taking good care of your dental health is essential to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Pancreatic Cancer: Recent studies have also shown a link between poor dental health and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Individuals with gum disease and poor oral hygiene may be up to twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer as those with healthy teeth and gums. The theory is that the bacteria that causes gum disease can travel through the bloodstream and infect the pancreas, developing cancerous cells. While the link is not yet fully understood, it’s clear that maintaining good dental hygiene can have far-reaching implications for your overall health.

Heart Disease: There is a well-established link between poor dental health and an increased risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that individuals with gum disease are likelier to develop heart disease than those with healthy gums. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation throughout the body, including in the arteries, which can lead to the development of blockages and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Maintaining good dental hygiene reduces your risk of gum disease and its associated health risks, including heart disease.

Health experts and sporting bodies have reported that poor oral health affecting athletes’ general health and performance shows ‘no signs of improvement’ and must be remedied.

In the study of 302 athletes, 40% said they were bothered by their oral health, 28% reported an impact on their quality of life, and 18% reported an effect on their training and performance. Also, 55% of the athletes had cavities, 45% had dental erosion, and 76% had periodontal disease.

In a consensus statement, the authors call for action to tackle poor oral health among athletes. They suggest simple measures such as:

1. Brush your teeth twice daily: Brush your teeth for at least two minutes using fluoride and a soft-bristled brush.
2. Floss regularly: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and gum line, which a toothbrush can’t reach.
3. Rinse with mouthwash: Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing can help kill bacteria that cause bad breath and gum disease.
4. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out bacteria from your mouth and prevent dry mouth, leading to tooth decay and bad breath.
5. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks: Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can erode your tooth enamel and cause cavities. Instead, choose healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
6. Wear a mouthguard: If you play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from injury.
7. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help to prevent and treat oral health problems before they become more serious.