Saving money is a great practice, no matter what the season.
However, for many people, the COVID-19 lockdown caused economic damage in which they are still recovering from more than a year later. Unfortunately, many patients have not visited the dentist in more than a year due to the Pandemic.
We understand your challenges. Here are some ways in which preventative dentistry can help keep you stay healthy and save you money:
- Regular checkups: When you have regular checkups twice a year, this allows for any serious dental issues to be identified and treated before they get worse. This saves money down the road as you will possibly avoid more expensive treatments and surgeries.
- Gingival Health: Gingivitis is a gum infection caused by too much plaque. It doesn’t cause much discomfort in its early stages and some patients don’t even realize they have it. This can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. The extra costs of treating gum disease can add up quickly and become costly.
- Oral Cancer Screening: This is used to detect mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may lead to mouth cancer. Cancer or lesions are easiest to remove and may be cured if they are found early. Getting a screening early may prevent it from spreading. Of course, the best way to prevent oral cancer is to stop smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and eat and live healthy.
- Dental Sealants: These are used to prevent tooth decay. The pits and fissures in the front and back teeth are most vulnerable to tooth decay as food and bacteria find their way into the grooves Dental Sealants are thin, resin coatings that seal over these pits and fissures found in molars and premolars. They can help prevent cavities by protecting vulnerable tooth surfaces.
- Fluoride: Just brushing with fluoride toothpaste after each meal (at least twice a day) can prevent tooth decay and gingivitis. Professional Fluoride application in a dental office is recommended for anyone under 18 years old and those who are at more risk for decay.
- Mouthguards: These are custom guards worn over teeth to protect teeth from injury and wear. If worn regularly, mouth guards will prevent teeth from grinding down and causing serious damage which can result in TMJ (temporal mandibular joint) pain and tooth damage.
- Snore and Sleep Apnea Appliances: Snoring and sleep apnea (the upper airway becomes blocked repeatedly during sleep, reducing or completely stopping airflow) which is an even more serious health issue, can damage teeth and cause serious health problems. Sleep apnea that is untreated can lead to asthma, cognitive disorders, heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and other serious health problems. Having your dentist fit you for a snore appliance may prevent snoring and sleep apnea.
- Preventative Dentistry: All of the above dental care methods are part of preventative dentistry. You can save money now and in the future, by following the following steps: getting routine teeth cleaning every six months. Tartar control toothpaste cannot remove tartar or calculus by itself. A dental professional has the training and tools to clean your teeth thoroughly which will prevent decay, diseases and save you money.
- Diet Consultation: Our diet greatly affects our dental health. A diet high in sugars, carbohydrates, meats, and preservatives can cause cavities and tooth decay. It may also lead to obesity and other health problems. A diet consultation with your dentist and hygienist can help you stay healthy. A regular diet consisting of fruits and vegetables can lower your blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. The healthier you are, most likely, the less you will need to spend on dental care!
Keeping a reasonable budget in the Era of COVID is a smart move. However, don’t let your dental health suffer. This can exacerbate dental issues which can be even more costly and painful in the long run. Please consult with your dentist and hygienist for ways that you can save money on treatment. They will be happy to assist you and your family in creating a customized dental plan that can keep all of you healthy.
All Smiles Bethesda can help you plan your dental treatments and discuss with you any financial needs. If you would like to schedule an appointment at our family dentistry, please call us at 301-984-9646 or email us at info@allsmilesbethesda.com or lorraine@allsmilesbethesda.com.