Understanding the Importance of Dental Insurance for Denture Wearers
When it comes to dental insurance, many people with dentures might wonder if it’s a necessary expense — often believing that with dentures in place, most of their major dental needs have been addressed. However, denture wearers can be at a greater risk for infections, sores, and mouth diseases that require dental care. A comprehensive dental plan offers protective advantages. Let’s explore why dental insurance is not only a wise financial decision but also a proactive step toward ensuring overall oral health for years to come.
Continued oral health care
Even if you wear dentures, your oral health needs do not stop there. Dental insurance covers routine check-ups and cleanings, which are crucial for everyone, including those with dentures. These appointments allow your dentist to:
- monitor the health of your gums and oral tissues
- check for signs of oral cancer or other diseases
- ensure your dentures fit correctly
Denture maintenance and repairs
Dentures, like any medical appliance, require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Over time, dentures can become worn or damaged and may need to be relined, remade, or repaired. These processes can be costly, but many dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of these expenses, making the upkeep of your dentures more affordable.
If dentures are not well-fitted or properly maintained, denture wearers can be at risk for various gum and mouth diseases. Issues such as denture stomatitis, which is an inflammation of the tissue underlying the denture, or bone resorption, where the jawbone changes shape over time, can occur. Food particles can become trapped, and poor denture hygiene can lead to bacterial and fungal infections.
Coverage for related dental procedures
Knowing that you are covered for routine care and unexpected expenses can alleviate financial stress. Plus, it allows for better financial planning, as many dental treatments and procedures can be costly without insurance. Dental insurance can also cover treatments for conditions related to denture use, such as:
- adjustments for denture-related discomfort
- treatment for any gum or bone issues
- procedures for any remaining natural teeth, if applicable
Emergency dental needs
Unexpected dental emergencies can happen to anyone, including denture wearers. If you require urgent care due to an accident or an issue with your mouth or dentures, dental insurance can provide financial relief by covering a portion of these unforeseen costs.
Enhanced overall health
Oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Research demonstrates that gum disease may have correlations with increased risks of cardiovascular issues — including strokes and heart attacks — as well as complications with diabetes management. Emerging research suggests a potential link between dental health and a heightened risk of pancreatic cancer, highlighting the importance of vigilant oral care. Dental insurance facilitates accessible and affordable care, enabling regular dental visits that can reduce disease risk and enhance overall well-being.
In short, dental insurance remains an essential consideration for individuals with dentures. It covers a range of services beyond the initial cost of dentures, providing coverage for ongoing maintenance, unexpected repairs, and oral health care. Remember, oral health is a vital part of your general well-being, and dental insurance is a tool to help maintain it.
If you are shopping for a dental plan, carefully review the services these plans include to ensure the procedures you value are covered. You can also look at individual dental plans, such as those offered by Ameritas.
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