Proper dental care can do more than keep your teeth healthy. Studies show that gum disease has been linked to serious conditions, such as heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes*. Finding problems early can lead to easier, more effective and less costly treatment.
How to keep your teeth healthy
For healthy teeth and gums, practice these oral health habits:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean between your teeth
- Avoid sweets and sugary drinks that may cause tooth decay
- Drink plenty of water to reduce acids that attack teeth
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcoholic beverages
- See your dentist regularly for cleanings and preventive dental care
What happens at a preventive dental care visit
It’s important to see your dentist for routine preventive dental checkups. They can help identify and treat tooth decay, gum disease and other problems with your teeth. Dentists can also help detect oral cancer and other diseases of the mouth.
Here’s what to expect at your next dental visit
- Check your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay and gum disease
- Examine your mouth and neck for other health concerns, such as oral cancer
- Take x-rays of your teeth to see if there are any cracks or cavities
- Remove plaque and tarter from your teeth and gums
- Clean, polish and floss your teeth
- Recommend other tests or procedures, based on your age or health history
Ways to pay for dental checkups
Preventive dental care is not covered by health insurance. There are several ways to cover preventive dental exams and other dental procedures.
- Pay your dental bill on your own
- Enroll in a dental plan from a private insurance company, or ask your employer if they offer a dental plan for employees
- Pay using the funds in a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) if you have one
- If you have a child(ren) covered by a Medicaid health plan, their dental care may be covered
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