Approximately 3 quarters of the American population have dental insurance through an employer or by another means. However, when retiring, many seniors find that they miss out on those dental benefits that they used to rely on to make oral healthcare affordable. But dental care is important at any age, especially for seniors. Continue reading to learn how investing in a dental membership plan can benefit mature patients who no longer have dental insurance.
Medicare Doesn’t Always Cover Dental Care
For millions of people who are over the age of 65, Medicare provides for some, if not all, of their health coverage. However, Medicare covers hardly anything when it comes to dental care unless the issue is part of an emergency procedure or an on-going medical issue. The problem with this is that dental health is directly related to overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to many serious ailments, including diabetes, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease. After all, the mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body. Without any dental care, the rest of your health can suffer!
Seniors Are at Increased Risk for Dental Problems
Seniors have unique needs when it comes to oral health. While dental issues can affect people of any age, having many years of eating, drinking, and stress under your belt will ultimately affect your smile. Seniors are at an increased risk for tooth loss. In fact, people over the age of 64 have an average of only 19 teeth. Seniors also often suffer from dry mouth thanks to additional prescription medication to treat health conditions. Lack of mobility can limit oral hygiene practices. Ultimately, there is a higher risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
Dental Membership Plans Are an Excellent Alternative to Insurance
Dental membership plans are a popular alternative to dental insurance because they offer significant savings on dental care for seniors. The plans often include your two professional cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, x-rays, and an emergency exam each year. This doesn’t even include the substantial discounts on in-house dental procedures, like dental fillings. By investing in a membership plan, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time when it comes to the cost of your oral healthcare. Keeping your smile healthy shouldn’t mean breaking the bank.
Retiring from your career doesn’t need to mean retiring from your dental visits. Talk to your dental team to find out if a dental membership plan is the right option for your smile and your wallet!
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Luccio earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston before receiving the American Academy of Periodontology’s Achievement Award for academic and clinical excellence in periodontics. He is committed to elevating his skills through advanced training and has completed courses in many different specialties, including Invisalign, Botox®, and Juvederm® dermal fillers. With the Clear Coast Dental Membership Plan, even uninsured patients can receive dental care at an affordable price. For more information or to schedule an appointment in New Bedford, visit his website or call (508) 997-1030.
