How Seniors Can Save on Dental Care
February 5, 2016
As open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act came to a close in January 2016, the National Association of Dental Plans reported that 40% of Americans were still without dental insurance.1 This percentage is more than three times higher than those without health coverage, and a large majority of people without dental insurance are senior citizens.
In fact, Oral Health America reported in 2013 that “70% of older Americans currently have no form of dental insurance and less than 1% of dental services are covered by Medicare.”2,3 There are many reasons why people, including seniors, decide to go without dental insurance. These reasons are varied, and often relate to high costs, price confusion, fear of dentists, and lack of accessibility. The problem is that, just like other forms of health care, neglecting oral health can be painful, expensive, and is correlated with increased risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other diseases.1
In today’s medical landscape, the Dental Solutions blog serves as a dental industry leader in educating Americans on oral health issues and ways to save on dental care. With this in mind, the Dental Solutions blog proposes four ways to help patients access the care they need:
1. Discount Dental Plans
These are not insurance plans. They offer discounts from 20% to 50% on most dental procedures for a small monthly fee. The only requirement is that patients use a participating network dentist, similar to most health insurance plans. While reviewing discount dental plans, patients should review a plan’s network, and the application and limitations of available discounts. Dental Solutions’ discount plan has one of the largest networks in the country; they offer substantial discounts and can accommodate an entire family, unlike major competitors.
2. Dental Schools
Many dental schools offer free or discounted services to the public. Students are supervised by licensed dentists and are in their final years of schooling. Because these students have to carefully check their work, they might need several visits to complete a procedure. To find a dental school, visit the American Dental Association or for dental hygiene schools, visit the American Hygienists' Association.
3. Dental Clinics
Many clinics base prices on a patient’s ability to pay or offer fees on a sliding scale. Most state government websites have a detailed list to locate these clinics.
4. Charitable Organizations
The Give Back a Smile (GBAS) program and Oral Health America are great resources to help those in need gain access to dental care. Your local United Way association is also an excellent resource.
"These tips for saving on patient dental care and improving oral hygiene are not substitutes for proper daily dental care," says Kim Sharbatz, editor-in-chief of the Dental Solutions Blog. The most important way to save on dental care is by maintaining proper oral hygiene habits.
About Dental Solutions
Dental Solutions is a discount dental plan that is a great way for anyone without traditional dental benefits to save on their dental care. In addition, Dental Solutions hosts the Dental Solutions blog, which specializes in educating the community about the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene and oral health. It's a one-stop shop for the latest trends and news on these subjects. Visit edentalsolutions.com for more details.
References
1. Who has dental benefits? National Association of Dental Plans website. http://www.nadp.org/Dental_Benefits_Basics/Dental_BB_1.aspx. Accessed February 5th, 2016.
2. New Report: Expanded Dental Coverage Needed to Confront Health Crisis. Center for Medicare Advocacy website. http://www.medicareadvocacy.org/new-report-expanded-dental-coverage-needed-to-confront-health-crisis/#_ednref2. Accessed February 5th, 2016.
3. 2013 Infographic: A State of Decay Vol. II. Tooth Wisdom website. http://b.3cdn.net/teeth/83b738de97bca9baec_jdm6bj8py.pdf. Accessed February 5th, 2016.
