Question: I have been trying to help my boyfriend get dental insurance for his son. Since I got my boyfriend on my dental plan, he only needs something for his ten-year-old son. So far, my boyfriend has been paying out of pocket for all his son’s dental needs.

Now, however, his son is in the middle of braces and is being told he needs to have a few teeth pulled. The cost is just getting higher and higher, and he is still trying to figure out what to do. His current dentist does not take HMO, only PPO, which, from what I can tell, will have a waiting period for the dental service his son needs. Can anyone give us some helpful advice?

Reply: I’m sorry to hear about your boyfriend’s situation. Navigating the various dental insurance options available can be challenging, especially regarding specific services such as braces and tooth extractions. He might consider looking into dental discount plans, which can sometimes provide savings on procedures not covered by traditional insurance. The issue may be that with a dental discount plan, you have to go to a dentist who accepts the plan.  

NOTE: Dental insurance companies may exclude work in progress because they generally want to avoid covering pre-existing dental conditions. When you sign up for dental insurance, there may be a waiting period during which the insurance company will not cover the treatment for pre-existing conditions. This waiting period can vary between insurance policies and the specific dental service needed. Suppose you begin treatment for a dental issue before the waiting period ends or before your insurance policy begins. In that case, the insurance company may consider it a work in progress and may not cover the cost of that treatment.

Exclusions can be frustrating for individuals who need immediate dental treatment but must wait until the waiting period ends to receive coverage. However, it is essential to note that insurance companies include waiting periods to protect themselves from individuals who sign up for insurance only when they require immediate treatment for pre-existing conditions. 

Therefore, it is essential to carefully read and understand your dental insurance policy before signing up for it. If you have an existing dental issue, check if there is a waiting period for that particular service, and if so, how long the waiting period is. Additionally, consider contacting the insurance company directly to discuss any exceptions to the waiting period for the dental service your dentist recommends.

It’s important to understand that the exclusions related to pre-existing dental conditions can significantly impact your search for dental insurance for your boyfriend’s son, mainly if he is in braces treatment and requires tooth extraction. As mentioned, dental insurance companies typically exclude work in progress or pre-existing dental conditions and may enforce a waiting period before covering such treatments. This can result in a frustrating situation where your boyfriend’s son may need immediate dental treatment. Still, the insurance company may not cover the cost of that treatment due to pre-existing exclusion. 

It’s crucial to carefully read and understand the dental insurance policy before signing up, especially if you have an existing dental issue. Since your boyfriend’s son is in the middle of braces treatment and requires tooth extraction, it is best to check if there is work in progress or pre-existing exclusions. 

Tips to Save Money on Dental Treatment for Pre-Existing Needs Not Covered by Insurance

If you have pre-existing dental needs that dental insurance does not cover, here are some tips to save money:

1. Shop Around: Dental providers charge different amounts for the same treatment. It’s worth getting quotes from other dentists to see if you can find a more affordable option.

2. Look for Discounts: Some dental providers offer discounts for cash payments or patients without insurance. Check with your dentist to see if they offer any discounts.

3. Consider Dental Financing Options: Some dental providers offer financing options to help you pay for expensive treatments over time. These can be a good option if you need immediate treatment but can’t afford to pay for it all at once.

4. Ask About Payment Plans: Some dentists may be willing to work out a payment plan with you to help you pay for your treatment over time. It never hurts to ask!

5. Take Advantage of Free or Low-cost Dental Clinics: Many communities have free or low-cost dental clinics that provide primary dental care. While they may not be able to provide more complex treatments like braces or extractions, they can help you maintain good oral health and catch problems early.

Remember, taking care of your dental health is essential even if you don’t have insurance coverage for all your needs. By shopping around, looking for discounts, and exploring financing options, you may be able to save money while still getting the care you need.

Despite excluding current dental needs, there are still reasons to consider dental insurance.

While it can be frustrating to discover that your insurance policy does not cover your current dental need, it is still essential to consider purchasing dental insurance. Dental insurance can cover routine check-ups, cleanings, and other preventive care to help you maintain good oral health and prevent future dental problems. 

Additionally, dental insurance can provide coverage for unexpected dental issues that may arise in the future. Dental emergencies, such as a cracked tooth or severe toothache, can be costly without insurance coverage. Having dental insurance can offset these costs and provide peace of mind in case of an unexpected dental issue.

Moreover, having dental insurance can also help you establish a relationship with a dentist who accepts your insurance plan. This can be especially beneficial if you are new to an area or need to find a new dentist. Choosing a dentist who accepts your insurance plan can ensure you receive quality dental care from a trusted provider while maximizing your insurance benefits.

In summary, while dental insurance may not cover your current dental needs, it is still worth considering purchasing it for its many benefits, including coverage for routine check-ups, preventive care, unexpected dental issues, and access to quality dental care from a trusted provider.

Understanding HMO Dental Insurance Plans: A Guide for Those with Pre-existing Dental Conditions and Fixed Incomes

Dental insurance policies can be complex and may include exclusions related to pre-existing dental conditions, which can be a major concern for those who need immediate dental care. However, HMO insurance plans can be an excellent option for those with a fixed income and current dental needs. HMOs typically have fewer exclusions on pre-existing dental conditions than other insurance plans, which can relieve those worried about being refused coverage.

Moreover, HMOs provide a more predictable cost structure, which can help budget dental care expenses. Unlike other insurance plans, HMOs typically have lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs, making them an affordable option for many people.

However, it’s important to note that HMOs require patients to stay within their network of providers, which can be limiting if you have a preferred dentist outside of the network. This means that you may not be able to continue seeing your current dentist if they are not part of the HMO network.

Ultimately, weighing the pros and cons and considering your dental needs and budget is crucial before selecting a dental insurance plan. You should also carefully review the plan’s terms and conditions to understand the coverage and applicable limitations. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that will help you maintain good oral health without breaking the bank.

Navigating Dental Insurance and Saving Money on Treatment for Pre-Existing Needs

In conclusion, navigating dental insurance can be daunting, but with the proper knowledge and preparation, you can save money on treatment for pre-existing needs. Carefully review your insurance policy and understand any exclusions or limitations. Consider shopping for an insurance provider that suits your needs and budget better. Additionally, seeking alternative treatment options, such as dental schools or discount programs, can also help save you money. Remember to prioritize your oral health and not let financial concerns prevent you from getting the care you need. By taking these steps, you can make the most of your dental insurance coverage and ensure you receive the treatment you need at a price you can afford.

Find the Right Dental Insurance Plan for You and Your Family with DentalInsurancePlus.com

At DentalInsurancePlus.com, we understand that navigating dental insurance options can be daunting. We offer different dental insurance plan types and options to fit your unique needs and budget. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the right plan for you and your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking for individual or family coverage, we have a plan that can work for you. We offer plans with different coverage levels, deductibles, and copays to fit a range of budgets and needs. We also provide options for both HMO and PPO plans, depending on your preferred level of flexibility and access to providers.

If you need help determining which plan is right for you, don’t worry. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can answer any questions and help you find the best plan for your unique situation. We know that everyone’s dental needs differ, so we offer personalized service to help you make an informed decision.

Call our office at 310-534-3444 Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, for a free quote on dental insurance or if you have questions about dental insurance and what plan may work for you. We’re here to help you find the coverage you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy and your smile looking great.

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.

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.

According to a new study published in the August issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association It is safe for pregnant women to undergo dental treatment with local anesthetics.

The study identified no evidence to show that dental treatment with anesthetics is harmful during pregnancy, and yet so many pregnant women avoid going to the dentist, according to study author Aharon Hagai, D.M.D. The study was aimed to determine if there was a significant risk associated with dental treatment with anesthesia and pregnancy outcomes. They did not find any such risk.

When it comes to basic dental care services most PPO’s insurance plans review basic services as dental fillings and regimentation bridge, crown or on-lay. However benefits under basic services can very depending on the plan.

Also it is important to note that many PPO plans have waiting period for basic dental service on average six months but it can also very depending on the plan. One way to reduce your risk of having to have basic dental care needs is by maintaining good oral health care habits at home, and by seeing your dentist regularly for your dental check ups and cleaning’s

Preventive dental care dose start at home by having good dental care habits. Brushing your teeth twice a day flossing daily and using a mouthwash that help fight plaque. However preventive care dose not stop at just having good dental habits at home.

An equally important part of your preventive dental care needs is seeing a dentist at least twice a year for your dental check up and cleaning’s. Did you know that most dental insurance plans provide preventive dental care services at little to no cost to you. By having dental insurance you are able to maintain your twice a year check up and cleaning’s with little to no cost to you for you and your family. Dental insurance also provides basic and major dental care services at a more affordable cost when needed.

It is important to know that oral cancer screening can not detect all mouth cancers. It can be difficult to detect areas of abnormal cells just by looking at your mouth, so it is possible that a small cancer or precancerous lesion could still go undetected.

Most dentists perform an examination of your mouth during a routine dental visit to screen for oral cancer. Oral cancer screening is an examination performed by a dentist  to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. The main goal of oral cancer screening at your dental check up, is to identify mouth cancer early, when there is a greater chance for a cure. To do this some dentists may use additional tests to aid in identifying areas of abnormal cells in your mouth.

Although medical organizations have disagree on whether healthy people without risk factors for mouth cancer really need oral cancer screening. No single oral exam or oral cancer screening test is proved to reduce the risk of dying of oral cancer. However, you and your dentist may decide that an oral exam or a special test is right for you based on your own risk factors.

Drug use can have a negative impact on dental health as well as overall health. Patterns of oral health pathology attributed to methamphetamine users, for example, include rampant tooth decay, accelerated tooth wear, unexplained advanced gum disease, missing multiple teeth, and overall detrimental dental effects that are rapid and severe. These patients also often seek cosmetic dental treatment, such as veneers and whitening, which give dentists another opportunity to discuss suspected substance misuse, provide referrals for treatment, and encourage cessation of drug misuse.

There really is not much involve in taking care of your teeth and gums. Yet when you do not have proper dental care habits your oral health is put at risk. Listed below are the simple steps you can take to making sure to maintain good teeth and gums.

1) Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
2) Floss your teeth at least once a day.
3) Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for your checkup’s and cleaning.
4) Eat a well-balanced diet.
5) If you smoke, Quit. Smoking increases your risk for gum disease as well as increase your risk of having many other health issues.

By practicing good oral health habits you greatly reduce your risk of having large dental care needs

Question: I have one son and two girls. Even though both my husband and I have jobs, our jobs only offer the health insurance and no dental. Due to this we have not had dental insurance for some time. There for we been paying for our dental care out of pocket. I would now at this point like to get a family dental insurance plan that is not going to cost us more then $50.00 a month or so.

Answer: With your budget in mind for a family dental insurance plan, I would suggest reviewing our dental HMO insurance options as our HMO would fit into your budget and in most cases be less then $50.00 a month.

Most all dental insurance plans will provide some coverage’s/benefits for the treatment of gum disease. When reviewing insurance plans you will find gum disease treatment either listed under Periodontics category in an HMO dental insurance plan or under majors services under most PPO and Indemnity insurance plans.

Note: It is important to beware when buying a PPO and or an Indemnity dental insurance, that they will typically have waiting periods for majors dental care services. Waiting periods can very depending on the plan but in general terms, they can run around a year to 18 months.

Gum disease is a common condition among adults that occurs when bacteria form biofilms or plaques on teeth, and consequently the gums become inflamed. Some severe cases, called periodontitis, call for antibiotics.

Many people have had some degree of gum inflammation, or gingivitis, caused by dental plaque. The gums get red and swollen, and they bleed easily. If left unchecked, the condition can progress to periodontitis. The plaque hardens into tartar, and the infection can spread below the gum line and destroy the tissue supporting the teeth.

Question: I live in New Jersey I would like to be able to compare dental insurance plans to make sure I am getting the best coverage’s for the best price. I see many dental plans that are costly but the coverage’s do not look all that good to me.

Answer: Depending on your dental care needs and what you are wanting in a dental insurance plan higher price dose not always mean better coverage’s. There are many personal factors that need to be taken into account when buying a dental insurance plan that best fits your needs. There are also two factors to take into account with regards to affordability. First the cost of the dental insurance plan, and second the plan benefits. You may find a really low cost dental insurance plan but the plan benefits may be not as good as buying a plan that may cost a little more. I suggest reviewing the dental insurance and plan options we provide and calling our member services at 310-534-3444 if you should have any questions about our plans cost and benefits.

Question: I looking for free to very low cost dental care help for my 2 year old son. I do not need to take him to a dentist right now, however I currently do not have any benefits for dental care and since I am a low income I get some state aid but not for dental. Where can I take my son for free to really low cost dental care?

Answer: For free dental care you would need to see when they are running the programs for free dental care. You can find that on the American Dental Association web site they will normally have dates listed. You may also want to look into going to any local dental schools they will normally charge you based on what you can afford to pay.  In addition I also suggest reviewing our HMO insurance plans or our dental discount plans as these are low cost dental plans that will help to greatly reduce your dental care cost.

Question: I have two girls and we live in California. Both my daughters have very good teeth, and I want to make sure they maintain their dental care. I changed jobs for better pay but lost the dental benefits I use to have with the prior job. Now I am looking for a good dental insurance plan that is still low in cost since I do not think we will ever need more then just your basic dental care.

Answer: We have quite a few Dental insurance plan options in CA ranging from Dental Discount plans to HMO Insurance plans and PPO’s to Indemnity insurance plans. However if you are wanting a lower cot dental care for just preventive and basic dental care needs I would suggest reviewing our HMO plans though California Dental or Delta Dental both plans are lower cost plans with no waiting periods. If you have any questions about our dental plan options please call our member services at 310-534-3444 as we be happy to help

According to The U.S. Surgeon General’s report on Oral Health in America. Employed adults lose more than 164 million hours of work each year due to dental disease or dental visits. Avoiding having to miss out on work due to dental care issues by having good dental habits at home and by seeing your dentist regularly.

In addition if you do not currently have dental insurance for yourself and or family now is the time to really think about buying some. Dental insurance will help keep your dental care cost more affordable and studies show people with dental insurance are more likely make and keep their dental appointments.

Dental care for children is very important brushing and flossing alone will not be enough without  regular dental care from a dentist. Dental cost can be a factor for anyone and that is why investing in a good dental insurance now for your children will help not only keep your children teeth happy but save you money on your family dental care needs. Get your dental quote today by entering your zip code in the quote box provided.

You can find many good affordable individual and family dental insurance online. One place to start is on our website just by entering in your zip code you will be able to review the dental insurance options we provide in your state. You are able to get free quotes and compare dental plans. As well as apply for dental coverage within minutes.

You can obtain quotes for more affordable dental insurance plans from companies online and through your local insurance agent or broker. Please keep in mind that there are many web sites who give the appearance of selling dental insurance but instead only offer a dental discount plan which is not insurance.

On this web site you may note that we sell both dental insurance and dental discount plans in most state. Leaving the plan options for the consumer but clearing showing what is and want is not dental insurance. Your dentist may also have affordable dental plan options available to patients. Ask the receptionist if they partner with a dental plan company and see if one might be right for you.