Dentists can detect early signs of decay, infection, damage, and other potential problems with a simple checkup and cleaning. This is why so many professionals encourage patients to maintain biannual visits, as they not only lower the risk of a person needing restorative care, but they’re also often covered by dental insurance. If you want to avoid cavities, gum disease, and other similar issues, read on to learn how your benefits can make a difference.
What Problems Can Occur with Untreated Gum Disease?
Failing to seek treatment for your gum disease can cause many serious problems, including bone and tooth loss. However, the infection spreading through your mouth doesn’t just stay there. It eventually enters your bloodstream as well.
This impactful stage means the infection can spread to various parts of your body, negatively affecting everything from your brain, heart, lungs, and gut. Some of the most serious issues that can form include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Dementia and/or Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer
- Osteoporosis
Is Gum Disease Treatment Covered by Dental Insurance?
Every dental insurance plan is different, so you’ll need to review your policy to determine what is covered. Most companies will agree to pay a portion of the total expenses related to gum disease treatment. This means they may be willing to cover 50-80% of the bill, depending on whether they categorize it as a minor or major restorative service.
How Does Using Your Dental Benefits Make a Difference?
Apart from saving on the out-of-pocket expenses associated with gum disease treatment, you can use your dental benefits to avoid additional care from the start.
When you choose to see your dentist for your six-month dental checkups and cleanings, your dental insurance company will likely pay 80-100% of the cost. This means you pay little to nothing for these regular visits. Since your dentist can identify early signs of gingivitis, there’s a chance they can address the problem before it requires more extensive treatment.
It’s worth remembering that should you require deep cleaning or another form of gum disease therapy, you’ll want to have it completed before the end of the year. If you’ve met your deductible, you’ll pay less than if you wait until 2026, when you’ll be required to meet your annual deductible again.
Dental insurance is a worthwhile investment, so don’t miss out on your available benefits while you still have the chance to use them.
About the Author
Dr. Steve Cha has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years and delivers 5-star service when treating every patient. With a strong focus on preventive care, he encourages individuals to use their dental insurance benefits to avoid paying high prices for regular dental checkups and cleanings. This approach not only allows a person to save money but also reduces their risk of more serious oral health problems, like cavities and gum disease. Visit our website or call (972) 529-1800 to schedule an appointment and learn additional ways you can save with your dental benefits.