Dental health is an important part of overall health. As we age, it becomes even more vital to maintain our oral hygiene. Signing up for dental insurance for seniors can help cover the cost of preventive care or expensive dental procedures. Deciding on whether to sign up for dental insurance may seem daunting if you don't know what to expect, so read ahead.
Why Oral Health Matters as We Age
Keeping up with our oral health is essential as we age. Teeth can be more prone to decay, cracking, or crumbling. Without proper dental care, the bacteria in your mouth can cause gum disease and tooth decay. It can also lead to other serious medical issues, like heart disease or stroke.
Regular brushing and flossing will help keep your gums healthy and prevent problems from arising. Yet, investing in dental insurance is still a smart choice. You may have pre-existing cavities that require attention. The need may also arise for expensive procedures, such as a root canal or the installment of dentures.
Pros of Signing Up for Dental Insurance
Signing up for dental insurance can help you save money on your visits to the dentist. Most plans will offer coverage even if you have existing conditions.
Affordable Preventive Care
Visiting the dentist bi-annually for checkups or professional cleanings is an important part of oral hygiene. However, it can be expensive. Many dental insurance plans offer discounts on preventative care. This helps cut overall costs in the long run by catching any problems early on.
Coverage for More Expensive Procedures
Dental procedures, like fillings, extractions, crowns, or root canals are often quite pricey. They involve a lot of laborious work from dentists and technicians. Investing in a dental plan could potentially cover all or some of these costs. This makes treatment much more affordable when needed.
Access to a Network of Dentists
With many different providers offering various forms of health insurance, it's sometimes hard to know where to turn first. Opting into a designated network provided by your insurer gives you access to several recommended dentists. They may also accept lower rates than private clinics, especially if you pay upfront.
Cons of Signing Up for Dental Insurance
With investments, there are often some downsides. Dental insurance for seniors is no exception. Here are a few of the downsides to consider when making your decision:
Limited Coverage for Certain Procedures
Your insurance plan may not cover all types of care you need. They may deem them 'cosmetic' and offer only limited coverage if any. Always read through the fine print. Plus, have a knowledgeable person help explain all that is included before signing up. This helps you know exactly what kind of coverage you will receive from this plan.
Waiting Periods for Certain Procedures
If any treatments fall into the category of "major services" (check with your carrier), you may be subject to extended waiting periods. Many begin from 6 months upwards before they become covered by your policy. If an emergency arises during this time, like losing teeth due to an accident, figuring out how best to pay for these procedures can be stressful.
Cost of Premiums
Paying premiums is inevitable for any type of health-related service. Opting in ahead of, rather than after, treatment is best. Many providers do not accept retroactive claims. This means whatever money has already been spent on tests or treatment cannot be reimbursed once users sign up later down the line.
Let Senior Helpers Appleton Answer Additional Questions
At Senior Helpers Appleton, we understand the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to oral health. If you live in Menasha, Neenah, Oshkosh, Appleton, and the surrounding Fox Cities area, and have questions about signing up for dental insurance for seniors or need more information about what is covered under your particular plan, please reach out today. Our knowledgeable staff can help you every step of the way!