Get the Facts About Dental Care
Posted on December 17, 2020 in Dental Health
In the age of the internet and smartphones, there’s no shortage of information – or opinions – available at our fingertips, but how often do you check your sources? We are an instant access society, so maybe we don’t always take the necessary time to investigate. However, when it comes to the health of you, your family or your employees, it’s important to know that the blog, article or tweet you are referencing is coming from a reputable resource.
Delta Dental of Iowa has provided dental insurance benefits for more than 50 years to individuals, families and businesses, so we’ve seen the rise and fall of many trends, fads and myths when it comes to dental care. Today, we’re addressing three of the most common myths about dental care and dental insurance, to separate fact from fiction and help you make good decisions about your oral health care and dental benefits.
MYTH #1: Going to the dentist during the COVID-19 pandemic is dangerous.
FACT: The American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have stated that oral health is an essential part of overall health. During the pandemic, both organizations have urged dental practices and dental patients to take care in determining the right time for your next dental visit. In Iowa, dentists are currently open for business and they are following the guidelines mandated by the state for safe dental practices. New precautions are now required for dental practices that include screening of patients and staff for COVID-19 symptoms, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), frequent hand sanitizing, and additional cleaning and disinfecting. Many Iowa dentists have invested in air filtration systems or even remodeled their practices to provide more separation and safety for patients and staff.
If you are a person in a vulnerable population due to age or pre-existing conditions, contact your dentist to determine when your next appointment should be. Persons experiencing oral pain or discomfort should seek treatment immediately and feel confident that your dentist is taking all of the necessary precautions to protect you, their staff and their other patients from COVID-19. Iowans should feel confident in maintaining their regular dental checkups. A recent study released by The Journal of the American Dental Association showed that less than 1% of dentists across the U.S. have been infected with COVID-19.
“Oral health is an important part of overall health,” according to ADA President Chad Gehani, D.D.S. “Resuming regular dental visits are important because treatment, as well as prevention of dental disease, helps keep people healthy. The guidances from the ADA and the CDC give dental professionals the information they need to practice as safely as possible.”[1]
MYTH #2: The condition of my teeth and gums has no impact on my overall health.
FACT: This is a myth we still need to dispel, despite mountains of evidence against it. Even perfect teeth with no cavities need to be regularly checked by your dentist and cared for with daily brushing and flossing. Proactively caring for your teeth and appointments with your dentist can prevent infections and emergency surgeries, not to mention unnecessary pain and suffering. Your dentist can detect symptoms of more than 120 chronic diseases through your dental exam – serious conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and more.
Not only is it important for your physical health, but also a healthy smile gives you confidence, helps you communicate with others and enjoy your favorite foods!
MYTH #3: Dental insurance is only affordable if you work for a huge company.
FACT: Individuals and families have many options when it comes to dental benefits. Participating in your employers plan is one way to access care. But, Delta Dental of Iowa offers plans for all sizes of organizations – small to large – that can be 100% employee supported or partially funded by the employer. There are no waiting periods for small group plans and some similar businesses may be able to pool together for group plans. Regardless of the size of your business, there is a Delta Dental plan that can work for you.
If your employer doesn’t offer coverage, individuals and families can also purchase plans directly from Delta Dental of Iowa. We have a variety of plan options to choose from – ranging from basic care such as exams, cleanings and x-rays, and plans with more comprehensive coverage including bridges, crowns and more. Regardless of how you access care, your dentist is likely in the Delta Dental network since over 90% of dentists in Iowa participate in the Delta Dental network. Having dental insurance helps you avoid large out of pocket costs for basic services and makes it more likely that you’ll go to the dentist, which helps you avoid dental emergencies down the road.
GET THE FACTS. Even though we live in an instant access world, it’s important to make sure your health information comes from trusted resources. For more than 50 years, Iowans have trusted Delta Dental of Iowa to provide dental insurance for themselves, their families and their employees. Trust our 1.2 million insured Iowans and the largest dental provider network in Iowa – Delta Dental will give you the facts!
[1] American Dental Association news release 05/29/20