Regarding oral health, maintaining healthy eating habits is as important as regularly brushing and flossing your teeth. While sugary snacks and treats might be tempting, it’s important to remember that specific candy can hurt your teeth.

Sticky candies, such as toffee and gummy bears, are particularly problematic. Their sticky texture can find its way between teeth and along gum lines, making them difficult to remove with brushing and flossing alone. Over time, the bacteria in your mouth interact with the sugars in these candies to produce acids that weaken your tooth enamel, leading to cavities and other dental problems.

That being said, if you indulge in sticky, sugary candy, you must take extra care of your teeth afterward. Brush and floss thoroughly to remove candy residue from your teeth and gums. Additionally, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to kill any bacteria lingering in your mouth.

While all sugary snacks and treats can harm your teeth, some candy can be particularly harmful. Hard candies, for example, can chip or crack your teeth, while sour candies are highly acidic and can erode your tooth enamel over time. So, avoiding these types of candy is best, and opt for healthier snack options.

By being mindful of your candy choices and taking extra care of your teeth afterward, you can help protect your oral health and avoid costly dental procedures. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

Some Good Tooth-Friendly Candy Options

If you’re looking for tooth-friendly candy options, choose sugar-free gum or candy instead of traditional sugary candies. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay, so look for products that contain this ingredient. Dark chocolate is another good option as it contains less sugar than milk chocolate. You can also try dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, as they contain natural sugars and are less sticky than gummy candies, which can stick to your teeth and promote decay.  

Tooth-Friendly Snack Options for Healthy Teeth and Overall Health

Maintaining good oral health and hygiene is essential for overall health and well-being. While sugary snacks and treats might be tempting, it’s important to remember that some candy can harm your teeth. Therefore, choosing tooth-friendly snack options can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Here are some healthy snack options that are good for your teeth and overall health: 

• Cheese and dairy products: Cheese and other dairy products are rich in calcium essential for strong teeth and bones. They also help to neutralize acids in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.
• Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are a great source of protein and essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which help to strengthen teeth and bones. 
• Sugar-free gum and candy: Sugar-free gum and candy containing xylitol can help prevent tooth decay by reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth.
• Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains less sugar than milk chocolate and is rich in antioxidants that promote overall health.

Choosing tooth-friendly snack options can help maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental problems. Remember to brush, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Fruits and Vegetables Make for Good Snack Options. 

Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best snacks for good oral health and well-being. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, and phosphorus, which help build strong teeth and gums. Eating crunchy and raw fruits and vegetables can also help scrub away plaque and debris from teeth, promoting good oral hygiene. Here are some examples of good fruits and vegetables that are great for your oral health:

• Apples: Apples are rich in fiber and help to clean teeth and gums while you eat them. Their fibrous texture helps to scrub away plaque and debris from teeth.
• Carrots: Carrots are rich in fiber, vitamin A, and beta-carotene, which promote healthy gums and teeth. Chewing on raw carrots also helps to stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes harmful acids in the mouth.   
• Celery: Celery is a crunchy vegetable that helps to clean teeth and gums while you eat it. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, which promote healthy teeth and gums.
• Strawberries: Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, essential for healthy gums. They also contain malic acid, which helps to whiten teeth naturally.
• Leafy Greens: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, which help to build strong teeth and bones. They are also rich in folic acid, which promotes healthy gums.

Including these fruits and vegetables in your diet can help maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems. 

Learn How to Floss Your Teeth for Best Results Correctly 

When it comes to flossing, there are certain practices that you should follow to achieve the best results. Here are some dos and don’ts of flossing:

DO:

•  Use a floss piece about 18-20 inches long.
• Wind the floss around your fingers and hold it tautly between your thumbs and forefingers.
• Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a zig-zag motion.
• Curve the floss around each tooth’s base, ensuring you go beneath the gumline.
• Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.

DON’T:

• Snap the floss into your gums, as it can cause pain and bleeding.
• Use a sawing motion, as it can damage your gums.
• Rush through the process – take your time to ensure that you clean between each tooth properly.
• Reuse the same section of floss, as it can transfer bacteria to other parts of your mouth.

Remember that correct flossing can help to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. So, take the time to floss correctly and maintain good oral hygiene.

Dos and Don’ts of Brushing Your Teeth

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for healthy teeth and gums, and brushing your teeth twice a day is essential. But did you know that there are certain dos and don’ts of brushing your teeth that you should follow to ensure that you are taking proper care of your oral health? This article will discuss the dos and don’ts of brushing your teeth, including tips on how to brush effectively and what to avoid to prevent damage to your teeth and gums. So let’s get started!

DO:

• Brush twice a day, for two minutes each time.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your gums.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your tooth enamel.
• Brush in circular motions, angling the brush towards the gumline.
• Brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles fray.
• Use a tongue scraper or brush to clean your tongue and freshen your breath.
• Rinse your mouth with water after brushing to remove any remaining toothpaste.

DON’T:

• Don’t brush too hard; it can damage your tooth enamel and gums.
• Don’t rush through your brushing routine. Take your time to ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth thoroughly.
• Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as it can harbor bacteria and cause bad breath.
• Don’t share your toothbrush with others; it can spread germs and bacteria.
• Don’t use an old or frayed toothbrush, as it won’t clean your teeth effectively.
• Don’t skip brushing before bedtime, as it allows bacteria to multiply and cause tooth decay.

Encouraging Good Dental Care Habits 

Encouraging good dental care habits in kids is essential for their overall health and well-being. Here are some tips on how to enable your kids to have good dental care habits:

• Start Early: It is essential to start teaching good dental care habits to your kids from an early age. When they emerge, you can begin cleaning their teeth with a soft bristle brush and water.
•  Make it Fun: Brushing teeth can be a fun activity for kids. You can make it a game by singing a song or making up a story while they brush.
• Lead by example: Kids learn by observing their parents, so ensure you set a good example by brushing and flossing regularly.
• Use Kid-Friendly Products: Kids may be more willing to brush their teeth if they have fun toothbrushes and toothpaste with their favorite cartoon characters.
• Reward Good Behavior: Praising your kids for good dental care habits and rewarding them with a sticker or a small toy can encourage them to continue their good habits. 
• Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Sugary snacks and drinks can cause cavities, so limiting these in your child’s diet is essential.
• Visit the Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent dental problems and keep your child’s teeth healthy.

By following these tips, you can encourage your kids to have good dental care habits and set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. In conclusion, maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being. By making smart snack choices, such as avoiding sticky, sugary candy and opting for tooth-friendly options like fresh fruits and vegetables, you can prevent dental problems and protect your oral health. Additionally, following proper flossing techniques and regularly visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings can promote healthy teeth and gums. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so start caring for your oral health today. You can enjoy a healthy smile and maintain good oral hygiene for years with consistent effort and attention.

Thank you for reading our helpful tips on maintaining good oral health. At DentalInsurancePlus.com, we understand the importance of oral health care and offer dental insurance plans that can help reduce the cost of dental procedures. Our plans cover a variety of services, including preventive care, fillings, root canals, and more. You can learn more about our plans by visiting our website or calling us at 310-534-3444. Our business hours are 8-4 M-F. Take the first step towards better oral health today with DentalInsurancePlus.com.

I have dental insurance, but I need my wisdom teeth pulled. Since my dentist can not pull them and I have to go to an oral surgeon, I do not have coverage for specialists under my current dental plan. Do I need dental insurance to cover for an oral surgeon to have my wisdom teeth pulled?

Reply: While you do not necessarily need dental insurance to go to an oral surgeon, it is always better to have insurance that covers specialists. This is because specialists like oral surgeons provide dental care services can be costly. Having insurance that offers benefits on a specialist can help you save some money on such dental care services. So, it’s always a good idea to check with your dental insurance provider to see if they offer coverage for oral surgeons or other dental specialists. If they do, you can take advantage of their benefits to get your wisdom teeth pulled without worrying about the cost.

Hello, I live in Westchester, NY, and I have a family of four without dental insurance. I have seen many dental discount plans, but I wonder if you get what you pay for with them since they are so cheap. Do you get much of any savings? I have yet to see any affordable dental insurance plans that I will go beyond cost to review plan details. What is the point if I can not afford it? I am looking for low-cost dental insurance plans that will help me save money on dental services.

Reply: I understand your concern about finding affordable dental insurance plans. Dental discount plans are generally cheaper than traditional dental insurance plans but may not cover as much. However, they can still provide significant savings on dental services. It’s important to carefully review the details of any plan before signing up to ensure that it meets your needs. Consider contacting dental insurance providers in your area to learn about their low-cost options. I hope this helps!

Is there any dental insurance that offers full coverage? I want a dental insurance plan offering at least 50 percent off any dental service rendered. I do not want to get a plan thinking I am good to go only to be told that my dental insurance does not cover me for what the dentist tells me I need to have.

Reply: When it comes to dental insurance, you must carefully review the coverage options available. While some plans offer “full coverage,” it’s important to note that the definition of “full coverage” can vary from plan to plan. Some plans may cover a higher percentage of costs for specific procedures, while others may have higher deductibles or other limitations.

To ensure you get the coverage you need, it’s a good idea to research and compare different dental insurance plans before deciding. Look for plans that offer transparency in terms of what is covered and what is not, and make sure to read the fine print carefully to avoid any surprises down the line.

Ultimately, the right dental insurance plan for you depends on your needs and budget. By comparing your options and carefully reviewing the coverage details, you can make an informed decision and find a plan that provides the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

I am a senior in Florida looking for an affordable dental insurance plan that I can get on my low-income status. Where do I need to go for a low-cost dental insurance plan?

Reply: As a senior with a low-income status in Florida, you have several options for affordable dental insurance plans. One option is to check with the Florida Department of Health to see if you qualify for the Florida Medicaid Dental Program. Another option is to explore dental insurance plans offered by private insurance companies, such as Delta Dental or Humana, which often have options tailored to seniors and low-income individuals. You can also consider dental discount plans, which offer reduced rates on dental services. Researching and comparing different plans is essential to find the best option for your specific needs and budget.

Finding affordable dental insurance can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here are some tips to help you find a plan that works for you:

1. Research different plans: There are a variety of dental insurance plans available, so take the time to compare options and find one that fits your budget.
2. Look for discounts: Some dental insurance plans offer discounts for paying in full or for specific procedures. Look for these discounts to save money.
3. Consider a dental savings plan: These plans offer discounts on various dental procedures and can be more affordable than traditional insurance.
4. Check with your employer: Many employers offer dental insurance as part of their benefits package. Check with your HR department to see if this is an option for you.
5. Ask your dentist: Your dentist may offer a dental savings plan or recommend affordable insurance plans.

Remember, there may be better plans for your needs than the cheapest one. Be sure to review the coverage and benefits of any plan before making a decision.

Supplemental dental insurance is a type of insurance policy that individuals or families can purchase to help cover some of the costs associated with dental care. This type of insurance is typically designed to fill in the gaps left by primary dental insurance plans, which may only cover some of the costs associated with specific dental procedures.

For example, if you have a primary dental insurance plan that covers 50% of the cost of a filling, a supplemental dental insurance plan could be purchased to cover the remaining 50% of the cost. This can help significantly reduce dental care’s out-of-pocket costs, making it more affordable for individuals and families.

Supplemental dental insurance can also be helpful in situations where annual dental benefit plan limits or exclusions exist. In these cases, a supplemental dental insurance plan can help to cover the costs of dental procedures that the primary dental insurance plan may not cover.

It’s important to note that not all dental procedures may be covered by supplemental dental insurance plans, and coverage can vary depending on the policy and the provider. It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any supplemental dental insurance plan before purchasing it to ensure that it meets your needs and provides the coverage you require.

I had a root canal done on one of my back molars. The root canal was done about two months ago. I was to return for the crown, so I only had a temp crown. That came off a month later. Since my appointment to return was next month, I have yet to do anything about it. When I ate something, part of the tooth with the root canal broke off. Now I have a hole in my tooth. My appointment is in three more days. The dentist was going to put the new crown on. What will he do now? Will I still get my crown?

Reply: Based on the information you provided, it’s likely that your dentist will still proceed with placing the new crown on your tooth. However, since part of the tooth has broken off, the dentist may need to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs before the crown can be placed. It’s essential to attend your scheduled appointment with the dentist and raise any concerns or questions you may have about the procedure. In the meantime, take good care of the affected area by practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or sticky foods that could further damage the tooth.

I currently have my son in braces. I have a dental discount plan that saves me 20%, which has worked well for me. However, now my husband’s job is making us move. It is good because it offers better pay and benefits.

My son still has his braces, and I worry that since we will be moving to a different state, his braces will not be done in time since he needs them for another year. Will I still get my 20% discount under the plan with another plan dentist?

Reply: It’s completely understandable that you want to ensure your son’s dental care remains consistent during the move. Regarding your question, it’s best to contact your dental discount plan provider to confirm whether your discount will still be applicable in the new state. Generally speaking, most dental discounts are still valid as long as they are available in the state you move to. But you have a few factors you will need to confirm.

1) Call your dental discount provider and ask if the discount plan is available in your moving state.
2) Ask if there are any plan orthodontic dentists in the area you are moving to. If so, get a list and the provider’s phone numbers
3) Confirm if the plan provides discounts for work in progress with a new plan distist.

If you can answer yes to all the above questions, the next step would be to call the plan dentist.

1) Ask if they are still accepting the plan and new members
2) Call the dentist in the plan and confirm that they can continue with your son’s orthodontic care.
3) Ensure the dental office will still provide the 20% discount.

It will take some phone call to the plan and their plan providers to confirm if your current dental discount will still work for you. You can also ask your current dentist for recommendations on trusted dental professionals in the new area, as they may have connections or be able to provide referrals. I hope this helps, and please let me know if there is anything else I can assist you with.

So, I last went to the dentist when I was on my parent’s dental insurance plan. I know I need some dental work, though I am not in any significant pain or anything; I know that my teeth are not in good shape. Should I get a dental insurance plan with its waiting period and yearly max and do my dental services a little at a time? Or go for a dental discount plan for dental savings and get my dental work done all at once. Which way, in the long run, would be cheaper?

Reply: It’s great that you’re thinking ahead and trying to weigh your options when it comes to dental insurance. Both dental insurance plans and dental discount plans have their unique benefits and drawbacks, so it depends on your individual situation and needs.

With a dental PPO insurance plan, you’ll typically have a waiting period before you can start using your benefits, and there may be an annual maximum on how much the plan will pay out for your dental services. However, you can spread your dental work over an extended period and pay smaller amounts for each visit.

On the other hand, with a dental discount plan, you’ll usually pay an annual fee to access discounted rates on dental services from participating providers. This is a good option if you need a lot of dental work done in a short amount of time, as you can save more money overall.

Ultimately, you’ll need to assess your dental needs and budget to determine the best option. I suggest speaking with a dental professional or insurance representative to understand better your options and how they would work for you. You can all our member services at 310-534-3444 m-f 8-4.

My parents are on a fixed income. We do not have dental Insurance right now. My dad continually works to pay the bills, so I do not see him often. Even though he works hard, he can not afford $120 or more a month for dental Insurance.

I am seventeen and work a part-time job, so I could pay for my dental services if my parents got our family’s low-cost, full-package dental insurance plan. My mom does not use a computer and will not bother my dad over this, so I am looking for something that sounds workable.

Reply: I understand your situation and how important it is for you to have dental insurance coverage. Dental care can be expensive, especially without insurance. It’s great that you are willing to take on some of the responsibility by working a part-time job. I suggest talking to your dad about dental insurance; we offer some low-cost dental insurance plans that could be an excellent option for your family as they provide comprehensive coverage at an affordable price. You can also help your mom with the enrollment process if needed. It’s always good to have dental coverage to ensure good oral health, and Dental Insurance Plus can help you achieve that. Just call our member service line at 310-534-3444 m-f 8-4.

So what I want to know is if I buy a typical dental insurance plan, what would I get from it? Some plans say free cleaning and X-rays, but is that all I get? Can I have fillings done at a low cost? What about the rest of the dental services? Do all dental insurance plans make you wait until you can have anything beyond a cleaning done? They offer complimentary cleanings, but you must hope you do not need anything else for a year. Please advise why that is the case.

Reply: First, you should know there are different types of dental insurance plans that work differently. Your meaning of a typical dental insurance plan needs to be clarified, but I will briefly explain how types of dental insurance work to benefit your dental care needs. 

1) HMO Dental Insurance Plan: An HMO dental insurance plan, also known as a dental health maintenance organization, typically requires you to choose a primary care dentist from a list of network providers. You will receive most of your dental care services from this primary care dentist, who will refer you to a specialist within the plan network if needed. With an HMO dental insurance plan, you will usually pay a fixed copayment for each service, and you may not be required to pay any deductibles or coinsurance. Typically, HMO dental insurance plans do not have waiting periods before you can receive certain services (however, read the plan terms carefully to confirm this, as some may have short waiting periods for major dental care services). You may have less freedom to choose your dental provider than you would with other types of dental insurance plans, as you must pick a network plan dentist. HMO dental insurance tends to be the lower-cost insurance option, and since dental services are scheduled on a detailed list, you know the cost for each dental care service covered under the plan you are reviewing. Knowing your fee for services makes it easier to budget. 

2) PPO Dental Insurance Plan: A PPO dental insurance plan, also known as a preferred provider organization, gives you more flexibility in choosing your dental care providers. You can visit any dentist within the plan’s network and receive coverage or choose an out-of-network dentist, sometimes at a reduced benefit. With a PPO dental insurance plan, you may have a deductible to meet before Insurance kicks in, and you may be responsible for a percentage of the cost of each service (coinsurance). However, PPO dental insurance plans usually cover more services than HMO plans, including major dental care services like extractions, crowns, and bridges. 

Some PPO dental insurance plans may have waiting periods before you can receive certain services, such as major dental care services. Some PPO dental insurance plans may offer free cleanings and X-rays as a preventive care benefit, but you may need to pay for other services and take into account the deductible if there is one.

Reviewing the plan terms carefully to understand what is covered and what costs you may be responsible for with a PPO dental insurance plan is essential.

3) Indemnity Dental Insurance Plan: An indemnity dental insurance plan is another type of dental insurance that works differently from HMO and PPO plans. An indemnity dental insurance plan allows you to choose your dental care provider more freely. You can visit any dentist you want, and the insurance company will pay a set percentage of the cost of each service covered under the plan. 

Like a PPO dental plan, with an Indemnity dental insurance plan, you may have to pay a deductible before the insurance company starts covering any of your expenses. You may also have waiting periods for basic and major dental care along with a maximum limitation. It’s essential to review the plan terms carefully to understand what is covered and what costs you may be responsible for with an indemnity dental insurance plan.  

Call our office at 310-534-3444 m-f 8-4 if you have any questions on what plan type will work best for your dental care needs. 

What type of dental insurance offers you full dental coverage? I am an adult with no kids. I am looking for a dental insurance plan that does not exclude coverage for cosmetic dental services. I do not currently need cosmetic dental services, but if I do in the future, I want a plan to cover me. I need help finding them online, though. What should I be looking for?

Reply: When it comes to finding a full-coverage dental insurance plan that offers coverage for cosmetic dental services, there are a few things you should be looking for. First, make sure the plan you are considering covers all essential dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and x-rays. Next, check if the plan covers primary dental services such as root canals, crowns, and bridges. Finally, look for a plan that covers cosmetic services like teeth whitening, veneers, and braces.

Not all dental insurance plans cover cosmetic services, so you’ll need to do some research to find the right one for you. You can start by looking for plans online and comparing the coverage details and costs. You can also consult a licensed insurance agent who can help you find a plan that meets your specific needs and budget.

Remember, having dental insurance can help you maintain good oral health and save money on dental expenses in the long run. So, take your time to research and find the right coverage plan for you.

Many people often disregard bleeding gums, but it’s essential to take note of this condition as it may be an early indication of gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and surrounding tissues that support the teeth. 

Apart from bleeding gums, other symptoms of gum disease include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums.
• Sores in your mouth.
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
• Persistent bad breath.
• Loose or separated teeth.

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other severe health conditions. It’s essential to have regular dental checkups and to talk to your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms. Your dentist can perform a thorough examination to determine the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.

Remember, periodontal disease is second only to cavities in dental care services needed, so taking care of your oral health is crucial to maintaining overall health and well-being.

Fluoride is safe and effective in controlling tooth decay when used correctly. Too much of anything can be destructive; that is the same with Fluoride. Children should use toothpaste with Fluoride; however, an adult should supervise young children.

Children under six are more likely to swallow toothpaste after brushing than spit it out. You want to ensure they only use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when brushing their teeth. Encourage your child to spit out and rinse as much as possible.

Avoid flavored toothpaste with younger children as it may encourage swallowing or eating of the toothpaste. Keep any fluoride toothpaste out of the reach of young children until they are proven to be responsible.

Some common symptoms of poor oral and dental health include bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, tooth sensitivity, and tooth loss. Other signs may include swollen or bleeding gums, pain or discomfort in the mouth, changes in the color or texture of the teeth, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly to prevent these symptoms and maintain a healthy mouth is essential. Also, dental insurance can help you cover the costs of regular checkups and treatments.

Canker sores appear inside the mouth. They are small ulcers with a white or grayish base and are bordered in red. You can have one or more canker sores at a time. Experts are not sure what causes canker sores. However, they do think that stress, as well as fatigue and allergies, can increase the risk of getting them. Canker sores are not contagious and usually disappear in a week to 10 days. The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores/fever blisters and is contagious.

Cold sores are fluid-filled blisters that often appear on or around the lips but can crop up under the nose or around the chin. Emotional upset can trigger an outbreak. So can a fever, a sunburn, or skin abrasion.

When dentures are not worn, keeping them moist is essential to prevent them from drying out and warping. You can soak your dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution recommended by your dentist. However, avoid using hot water, which can cause the denture material to warp or lose shape.

Handling your dentures with care is also essential when they’re not worn. Store them safely, away from children and pets, and avoid dropping them or placing them near hot surfaces.

Lastly, keep up with regular dental check-ups with your dentist, who can check the fit and condition of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.

Dentures should be cleaned at least once a day to remove food particles, plaque, and other debris, and to prevent staining. It’s also important to rinse your dentures after meals to remove any loose food that may have gotten stuck. You should use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to clean your dentures, and avoid using regular toothpaste, as this can damage the denture material. Additionally, it’s important to soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution overnight to help remove any bacteria that may have accumulated on them during the day.