It's Oral Health Month: Dentalplans.com makes care more affordable

Plantation, FL — In recognition of National Oral Health Month in April, DentalPlans.com offers some basic tips to keep smiles bright and help families afford a way to pay for the dental care they need. The company is also offering special discounts and incentives during the month to encourage the public to participate.

A common reason for not seeking dental care is cost and lack of dental insurance. In fact, a 2003 report by the U.S. Surgeon General found that 108 million Americans had no dental insurance — nearly 2.5 times the number for those who have no health insurance. More than half of all dental procedures are now paid for out of pocket.

“We want the public to know there are alternatives to dental insurance that are readily accessible to them today," said Jennifer Stoll, president of DentalPlans.com. "Dental Savings Plans such as those from DentalPlans.com offer up to 60% off oral care procedures, have no caps for spending in a calendar year, and can be activated right away to help in an emergency situation.”

Dental Savings Plans can help families save money and stay healthy. An average Dental Savings Plan for a family costs $130 annually. If a family of four goes to the dentist just twice a year for cleanings, the savings plan can pay for itself and then some. Add to that any other oral care procedures such as X-rays, regular check-ups, protective sealants for kids’ teeth, or crowns and root canals, and the savings will add up even more.

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“We believe quality dental care should be affordable and accessible for everyone,” adds Stoll. “Bringing together more than 30 of America’s most trusted networks and more than 100,000 dentists, DentalPlans.com offers consumers a choice and significant savings on dental care procedures.”

Maintaining healthy teeth not only enable someone to look and feel good, it makes it possible to speak properly, eat, and maintain better overall health. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, tooth decay is the most common chronic illness among school-age children. About 1 in 4 of nonelderly adults and children has untreated tooth decay, which is almost entirely preventable.

Oral hygiene tips from DentalPlans.com

• Brush for two to three minutes, at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque that can’t be reached by your toothbrush.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary foods, sodas and coffee.
• Eat plenty of foods and drinks that are good for your oral health-including herbal teas, cheese, fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs and water.
• Limit juice drinks for children and avoid sugary drinks.
• Avoid cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, which may contribute to gum disease and oral cancer.
• Schedule preventive care and schedule dental checkups. This is the best way to detect early signs of periodontal disease.