About ¾ of Americans have dental insurance. However, since many seniors are no longer working, they are no longer receiving dental benefits through an employer. This can make it very challenging to get quality oral healthcare at an affordable price. Dental care is important at every age, but especially for seniors. If you no longer have dental insurance, you will be pleased to learn that there is another option to get affordable dental care – a dental membership plan. For an annual rate, you can get many of the same benefits of dental insurance. Continue reading to learn a few ways they can benefit seniors.
Medicare Doesn’t Always Cover Dental Care
For the millions of Americans over the age of 65, Medicare provides some, if not all, of their health coverage. However, Medicare does not usually cover much when it comes to dental care unless the issue is part of an emergency procedure or an ongoing medical issue. The problem with this is that dental health is directly related to medical health. Poor oral health is linked to many serious ailments, including diabetes, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Without dental care, the rest of your health may suffer.
Seniors are at Increased Risk for Dental Issues
Seniors have unique needs when it comes to dental health. Dental issues can affect people of any age, but with many years of eating, drinking, and stress come effects on your smile. Seniors are at an increased risk for tooth loss; people over 65 have an average of only 19 teeth. Seniors also often suffer from dry mouth because it is a common side effect of many prescription medications. Lack of mobility can get in the way of maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices. Ultimately, seniors are at higher risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and many other dental problems.
Dental Membership Plans Are a Great Alternative to Insurance
Dental membership plans are a popular alternative to dental insurance because they offer significant savings on dental care for patients. Plans usually include your two professional teeth cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, X-rays, and an emergency exam each year. This doesn’t even include all the discounts that you will receive on other dental services completed at the practice. By investing in a dental membership plan, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time. Keeping your smile in good shape shouldn’t mean breaking the bank.
Retiring from your career shouldn’t mean retiring from your dental visits. If you no longer have access to your insurance, it is worthwhile to discuss your options with your dental team. A dental membership plan may be the perfect solution for you!
About the Practice
At Meadowbrook Dentistry, Dr. Miguel A. Casaña Jr. and Dr. Bryan Tamburro work together to serve the Plainview community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. They even offer an In-House Dental Plan so uninsured patients can get affordable care. To learn more about dental membership plans or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (516) 346-5655.