Question: I am currently looking for dental and vision insurance. I have medical insurance, but it does not come with vision-saving on my contacts; it only takes care of my eye exam, so I am looking for a vision plan that helps toward the cost of contacts. In addition to vision insurance, I am also looking for dental insurance as I do not have anything for dental care. 

Another factor is that I need both plans to be low-cost, as I can only afford to spend $50.00 monthly on dental and vision insurance. I tried finding something online, but dental insurance costs around $50.00 monthly. I live in Los Angeles, CA. What dental and vision insurance options in Los Angeles, CA, that fit within the $50.00 monthly budget?

Reply: Hello and welcome to our guide on finding affordable dental and vision insurance plans in Los Angeles, CA! We understand how important it is to have access to quality dental and vision care, and we’re here to help you find the perfect plan that meets your needs and budget.

DentalInsurancePlus.com offers various dental insurance and vision coverage options to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for individual or family plans, we have something for everyone. Our plans cover preventive care, basic services, major services, and orthodontic care, so you can choose the level of coverage that fits your specific needs.

We also understand that cost is a significant factor when choosing a dental and vision insurance plan. That’s why we work with our clients to discuss all the options available within their budget. Our team of experts can help you navigate the insurance marketplace and find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.

If you have any questions about our available plans or want a free dental and vision insurance quote, please call our member service line at 310-534-3444. Our friendly and knowledgeable representatives are available to assist you with any inquiries, and we’re committed to providing you with the highest quality customer service.

In conclusion, our website, DentalInsurancePlus.com, has the resources to find affordable dental and vision insurance plans in Los Angeles, CA. We’re dedicated to helping you find the plan that fits your budget and needs, and we look forward to assisting you every step of the way.

Affordable Dental and Vision Insurance Plans: A Guide to Dental HMO and Vision Insurance

Let’s first address the dental insurance part of your query. Low-cost dental insurance plans are available, and one of the best options for budget-friendly dental coverage is a dental HMO insurance plan. Though we offer both types, these plans usually have a lower monthly premium than other dental insurance plans, like PPOs or indemnity plans. 

Dental HMO plans offer in-network dental care providers for their members, meaning you can receive dental care services at a lower cost. However, it is essential to note that you must choose a primary care dentist and see them for all your dental care needs. You will also need referrals from your primary care dentist to see a specialist.

The cost of dental HMO plans can vary depending on your chosen plan and location. Still, you can expect to pay around $10-$20 monthly for an individual plan. However, reviewing your plan’s terms and conditions is essential to ensure that it provides sufficient coverage for your dental care needs.

Now, let’s address the vision insurance part of your query. Vision insurance plans are available for individuals and families and cover routine eye exams, frames and lenses, and or contact lenses. We offer various dental insurance and vision coverage options to suit your preferences, including options through VSP and vision discount plans in California. Like our dental HMO plans, these plans come with a network of providers and provide benefits on vision care services and products when you use participating providers. Our vision insurance runs as low as $25.00 annually and $15.00 monthly, depending on whether you want insurance or a discount plan. 

In conclusion, we recommend reviewing our dental HMO plans and vision insurance plans to find affordable dental and vision insurance plans within your $50 monthly budget. These options offer cost-effective coverage. Call our office for more information about our plans or to get started with a dental and vision plan that fits your budget.

What are the differences between Dental HMO and PPO plans, and which one is better?

Dental HMO plans tend to have lower monthly premiums than PPO or indemnity plans, but they have certain limitations. With an HMO plan, you must choose a primary care dentist and see them for all your dental care needs. You will also need referrals from your primary care dentist to see a specialist. On the other hand, PPO plans offer more flexibility in choosing your dentist, but they come with higher monthly premiums. The best plan for you depends on your individual needs and budget. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of each plan carefully before choosing one. If you have any questions, our team of experts is always available to assist you.

Deductibles and Waiting Periods in Dental Insurance Plans: What You Need to Know

The specifics of deductibles and waiting periods can vary depending on the dental and vision insurance plan you are reviewing. Some plans may have deductibles, which you must pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Other plans may have waiting periods before certain services are covered. For example, orthodontic treatment may wait several months or even a year before the insurance covers the cost. However, you will typically find waiting periods and deductibles with PPOs or Indemnity dental insurance plans. 

Meanwhile, with an HMO plan, you typically have a co-payment based on a fee schedule showing the cost for each dental service covered. These fees are usually lower than you would pay for the same services with a PPO or indemnity plan. However, as I mentioned earlier, you must choose a primary care dentist from the plan’s network and see them for all your dental care needs. You will also need referrals from your primary care dentist to see a specialist. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of each plan carefully before choosing one to ensure that it provides sufficient coverage for your dental care needs.

Comprehensive Dental HMO and Vision Insurance Plans for Preventive Care at DentalInsurancePlus.com

Preventive care is often free or low-cost with many dental and vision insurance plans because it encourages people to care for their oral and visual health before problems arise. Insurance companies understand that preventive care, such as regular cleanings and check-ups, can help detect and address potential issues early on, ultimately saving money in the long run by avoiding more costly treatments that may be necessary if problems are left unaddressed. By making preventive care more accessible and affordable, insurance companies hope to encourage people to prioritize their oral and visual health, which can lead to better overall health outcomes.

At DentalInsurancePlus.com, we understand the importance of preventive care for dental and vision health. That’s why we offer comprehensive dental HMO insurance and vision insurance plans that cover preventive care at little to no cost to you.

With our dental HMO insurance plans, you can receive a range of preventive care services, including office visits, check-ups, cleanings, and bitewing X-rays, all at little to no cost. These preventive services are vital to maintaining good oral health and preventing more severe dental problems.

Similarly, our vision insurance plans also prioritize preventive care. With a $15.00 co-pay for an eye exam, you can ensure that you receive regular eye exams, which are critical in diagnosing and treating various eye conditions early on. Early detection can help prevent more severe eye problems, and our vision insurance plans make it easy and affordable to prioritize your eye health.

Our dental and vision insurance plans prioritize preventive care, ensuring you can maintain good oral and vision health without breaking the bank. Contact us today to learn more about our affordable dental HMO and vision insurance plans and start prioritizing your health.

Choosing Dental and Vision Providers Within Your Plan Network: A Guide to Maximizing Benefits and Minimizing Expenses

When choosing dental and vision providers within a plan network, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you receive the best care at an affordable cost. Selecting in-network providers can maximize your insurance benefits and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. By understanding how to navigate the network and make informed choices, you can make the most of your dental and vision insurance. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process of choosing dental and vision providers within your plan network:

1. Verify Network Participation: Before scheduling an appointment, confirm that the dental or vision provider is in your insurance plan’s network and is accepting new members under the plan. You can typically accomplish this by contacting the provider’s office or checking the insurance company’s website for a list of in-network providers.

2. Understand Coverage Levels: Different providers within the network may offer varying coverage levels for specific treatments or services. To optimize your benefits, ensure you understand what services each provider covers at what percentage. Varying prices can happen within dental/vision discount plans 

3. Consider Location and Convenience: Seek out in-network providers near your home or workplace. Having a provider who is local to you is convenient, which can make scheduling and attending appointments more accessible and encourage regular preventive care. People with local providers who do not have to travel more than 10 miles will likely make and keep their required appointments. 

4. Research Provider Reputation: Take the time to research the reputation and qualifications of the providers within your network. Online reviews, recommendations from friends or family, and professional credentials can help you gauge the quality of care offered.

5. Inquire About Appointment Availability: Check with in-network providers about their availability, especially if you have specific time constraints. Finding a provider with flexible scheduling options can make fitting appointments into your routine more manageable.

6. Evaluate Provider Specialties: If you have specific dental needs, such as orthodontics, ensure that the in-network providers offer those services. Choosing providers with the right specialties can provide comprehensive care within the network.

7. Review Provider Payment Options: Inquire about the accepted payment methods and whether the provider’s office can bill your insurance company directly. Understanding the payment process in advance can help avoid unexpected costs.

8. Communicate with Insurance Customer Service: If you have doubts about a specific provider’s network participation or coverage, contact your insurance company’s customer service. They can provide clarification and address any concerns you may have.

When carefully considering these tips and selecting your dental and vision providers, you can enjoy the benefits of your insurance plan while receiving quality care within the network. Making informed choices about in-network providers can contribute to a positive and cost-effective healthcare experience.

Sarah’s Quest for Affordable Dental and Vision Insurance: A Lesson in Informed Decision-Making

There was a young professional named Sarah who had recently moved to Los Angeles, California. Sarah was excited about her new job and the opportunities in the big city. As she settled into her new life, Sarah realized she needed to care for her dental and vision health. With only basic medical insurance from her employer, she set out to find affordable dental and vision insurance plans within her budget of $50.00 monthly.

Eager to find the right plan, Sarah started her search online and came across various dental and vision insurance options. She stumbled upon an ad for a dental and vision insurance provider offering affordable plans that fit her budget. Without thoroughly researching the provider and their plans, Sarah quickly signed up for what seemed like a great deal.

However, as time passed, Sarah began to encounter issues with the coverage provided by the insurance plan. She found that the network of dental and vision care providers was limited, and she needed help finding a dentist and eye care professional who accepted her insurance. Additionally, the coverage for certain services, such as contact lenses, was less comprehensive than she had hoped.

Frustrated by these limitations, Sarah realized that she should have taken the time to research the plan and provider before making a decision. She wished she had explored different options and compared the offerings of multiple insurance providers to find the best fit for her needs.

Determined to rectify her mistake, Sarah took a more measured approach in her search for dental and vision insurance. She carefully researched various insurance providers, compared their plans, and read reviews from other customers. After thorough consideration, she found a reputable provider that offered comprehensive dental and vision insurance within her budget.

From this experience, Sarah learned the importance of taking the time to research not only the insurance plans but also the providers offering them. By doing so, she was able to find a reliable insurance provider that met her needs and provided the coverage she required for her dental and vision care.

The story of Sarah’s quest for affordable dental and vision insurance exemplifies the importance of thorough research and careful consideration when choosing insurance plans. Sarah’s initial hasty decision led to unexpected challenges and limitations in coverage. However, by learning from her experience and taking a more measured approach, she found a reputable provider that offered comprehensive dental and vision insurance within her budget. Sarah’s journey emphasizes the significance of exploring different options and comparing providers to make informed choices and secure the best coverage for one’s dental and vision health.

Thank you for considering DentalInsurancePlus.com for your dental and vision insurance needs. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at 310-534-3444. Our dedication is to help you discover the most suitable and affordable dental and vision insurance plans that align with your budget and requirements. We eagerly anticipate aiding you in finding the perfect coverage.

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.

Teeth grinding (Bruxism) is a common problem in adults as well as children.  In fact according to a study three out of ten children grind or clench their teeth.  This is usually due to losing teeth, jaw growth or other discomforts such as allergies. Kid also grind their teeth in response to stress and by taking measure to reduce or stop stress can help solve the problem.  However make sure you talk to your child dentist and inform him or her that your child is grinding or clenching their teeth.

My husband currently has a dental bridge, however it is old and needs to be replaced.  However If we can afford to get him dental implants we rather have implants compared to a new dental bridge.   We know they can be costly and they are not covered under our current dental plan. Are there any dental plans that provides some coverages towards the cost of dental implants?

Answer: Many dental insurance plans do not provide dental benefits towards the cost of dental implants.  You may want to review dental discount plans as a way of reducing the cost of having dental implants.  If a dental discount plan has a dentist that does implants then the savings can run around 15 to 20 percent.

Teething Symptoms:  Here are some signs that your baby is teething..  Drooling, wakefulness, being cranky more then normal, crying, biting and chewing. As well as having tender gums. Your baby may also be fussy when feeding. Over drooling my cause skin irritation around their mouth.

Teething gums may look swollen and red, you may see little white dots or small opining where the tooth is cutting though. Although your baby may get loose stools while teething, look out for diarrhea and fever.  Fever and diarrhea is not really a symptoms of teething, therefore should take you baby to the doctor for a check up since it is probably is not related to your baby teething.

I am an independent contractor out here in Phoenix AZ.  My medical insurance is though my wife plan she get at work.  However we do not have dental insurance. We would like a dental PPO plan so we can see our dentist but do all PPO plans have long term waiting periods.

Answer: Most dental PPO plans do come with plan waiting periods average is 6 months for basic dental services and 12 months for majors with preventive dental care being effective at the effective date of the plan.  However waiting periods will very depending on the plan and you may find a dental PPO plan that does not have waiting periods. Though make sure you read the plans terms and conditions.  Often times PPO plans without waiting periods are limiting your coverages in other ways within the first year of the plan.

My husband has a child from a previous marriage.  He has been order to get the dental and medical insurance for his son. He has his son on his medical insurance plan that he gets from work.  However since he does not have dental insurance he has to get a dental insurance plan for his son.

The problem is we wanted to get him an affordable HMO dental plan since it offer good coverages for his son dental needs and it offers a low month rate cost for the plan.  However is X is saying that is not good enough she wants him to get this PPO plan that will cost $68.00 a month since they will not let a minor be on the plan by his self.   I am mad as a wet hen that she is only doing this to upset my husband and to force him into adding her onto the plan. We will not buy dental insurance like that so she has to be listed.  Is there any PPO plans that will only write a minor on the plan?

Answer: Yes we have two PPO insurance companies that will let you have just a minor on the plan. All the Nationwide programs you see and the Standard Life dental plans. Both offer PPO and will work for your needs.

In order to review all your dental plan choices, just enter your zip code in the box at the top of the screen.

Primary teeth (Baby Teeth) are just as important as the permanent teeth (Adult Teeth).  Typically primary teeth begin to appear when the baby is between ages six month and one year.   Primary teeth serve many functions such as chewing, speaking and holding the space in the jaw for permanent teeth.

The American Dental Association advises that a baby should be examine by a dentist within six months after the first tooth comes in but now later then their first birthday.    For a baby the first dental visit is a well baby checkup for their teeth. The dentist will check for tooth decay and other problems.  In addition the dentist will be able to show you how to clean your child teeth properly and how to evaluate any adverse habits such as thumb-sucking.

As soon a your child teeth erupts tooth decay can occur.  There for once your child cuts their first tooth gently with a child size toothbrush and water. For children over the age of two you can brush their teeth with a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Make sure your child spits out the toothpaste and rinse with water.

Prevention is key to good dental health in babies. To avoid early childhood caries while nursing, avoid at will breast feeding after the first primary teeth begin to erupt.  Babies should not fall to asleep with a bottle containing anything other then water.  Fruit juices or soda should not be provided in a baby bottle.  Offer these types of drinks in a cup and only with meals or snack time.

What to eat after dental surgery.

Dental extractions can happen whether your an adult or a child. One type of common dental extraction would be wisdom teeth. Therefore knowing what you can eat after dental surgery is is helpful. Although many people think of foods such as gelatin, broth, baby food, milk shakes, applesauce and ice cream as standard fare following dental extractions, it hard maintaining a good nutritional diet solely on these type of food. Yet, with a minimal amount of preparation, it is possible to eat a balanced and satisfying diet during your recuperation.

For your proteins food such as tofu, mashed and seasoned pinto beans and hummus are excellent sources of food that does not need much chewing. You can get your fruits and vegetables with such foods as applesauce, pureed bananas, pureed squash and sweet and white potatoes. To supplement your nutritional needs. you can drink a glass of vegetable or unsweetened fruit juice Also food such as oatmeal, cream of wheat and well cooked whole wheat pastas are not only nutritious but will add the grains and dairy for a more balance diet.

People rarely stop to think about the mechanics of biting and chewing since we do this automatically. These mechanics including the proper actions of bones, nerves, muscles, and teeth working together to make basic functions happen without effort. Unfortunately, even the slightest problem with one part of this intricate network can result in painful symptoms and a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

Each individual state will determined the extent of dental coverage provided by the Medicaid Medical Card. Generally speaking most states will offer general care and preventative dental services for children on the Medical Card. This would include check-up exams, cleaning and fillings for cavities. Yet you should check with your own states benefits to make sure what is and is not covered under Medicaid.

According to a US Study, Coffee Drinking May Halve Risk of Mouth and Throat Cancer

Good news for coffee drinkers. According to a new study from the US, it finds people who drink more than four cups of caffeinated coffee a day have half the risk of dying from mouth and throat cancer as people who drink it either occasionally or not at all. With that said however, the researchers findings still need to be confirmed by more research. So for now enjoy your coffee as you would regularly do and do not run out and recommend to everyone that they should drink four cups of coffee a day.

Understanding the Importance of Your Oral Health.

Though many studies done over the years it has been clearly shown that there are links between our oral health and our overall health care. In fact our mouth is like a window into the health of our body. Yet that being said, oral health is still often taken for granted. Good oral health mean taking care of your entire mouth, which includes your teeth, gums, tongue, jawbone, and any mouth tissues.

By having good oral health care habits, you can help to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis (gum disease) that becomes more common with aging. Make it a daily habit to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush thoroughly at least twice a day or 30 minutes after eating. Also do not forget to floss your teeth. By flossing each day you can also help to prevent tartar buildup, as the floss cleans between your teeth and stimulates the gums. Flossing is one self-care technique that can greatly reduce your chances of developing serious gingivitis. Make sure see your dentist at least once every six months for checks ups and cleanings.

The Symptoms of Poor Oral Health

Your teeth should last you a life time. Yet, having poor oral hygiene and making unhealthy food choices, can effect your teeth and your oral health. Even though poor oral health may not show up right away it will eventually given enough time. There are many symptoms of poor oral health here are a few you should look out for.

1) Build up of plaque and tartar

2) Bleeding and/or painful gums

3) Consistent bad breath

4) Teeth sensitivity or pain

5) Decay in one or multiple teeth

6) Infection/Abscess that can cause dental pain

7) Loose teeth Keep in mind the best way to avoid having these symptoms of poor dental health is by having good daily dental habits at home.  Also make sure to see your dentist regularly in order to maintain health teeth and gums.

The choices available for teeth-whitening

There are two categories for teeth whitening. First is extrinsic the removal of surface discoloration. Brushing your teeth is extrinsic whitening by physically removing colored biofilm adhering to teeth and uncovering the natural enamel underneath. There there is intrinsic, changing the color of the tooth. Chemical bleaching is intrinsic whitening it penetrates the surface and actually whitens the enamel. The bleaching procedure can be done professionally at a dental office or be a prepared product either in a dental office or at home under dentist supervision. It also can be done at home using over-the-counter products you can buy in most food stores. You may want to talk over your whitening options with your dentist to find out what is the best choice for you.

Regular Dental Exams Helps Fight Against Oral Cancer

There is more then 30,000 people that are diagnosed each year with oral cancer out of the that 8,000 deaths occur yearly and the five year survival rate is only at 50 percent.  This according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Early detection and preventive care is the key in slowing down these numbers. It is advised that people see a general dentist at least twice a year for their check up and cleaning. Yet many people think that they are just having their teeth check and cleaned but a dentist is able really doing so much more then that.

Dental exams not only help to decrease a patient’s risk of oral diseases, such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease, but they also may help to diagnose other, sometimes life-threatening, medical conditions, such as oral cancer. Ask your dentist if they provide a cancer screening during your check up. Normally when you go in for your check up the dentist may feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks, and oral cavity. They will thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for any sores or discolored tissues. Although you may have already been receiving this screening from your dentist, it’s a good idea to confirm that this screening is a part, and will remain a part, of your regular exam.

There are a few reasons why you may have bad breath while traveling. Bad breath can happen when traveling when salivary glands slow down the production of saliva, which allows bacteria to grow inside the mouth and bad breath to develop. Often times travelers alter their food intake while at the airport and on the plane. Either by increasing their fast food and soda intake which can leave food particles in the mouth that produce a sulfur compound and cause bad breath, or by fasting which still cause bad breath by bringing back morning breath. In addition to food changes, travelers often fail to maintain their dental hygiene habits causing bad breath by forgetting to brush and floss daily.

Endodontic/Root Canal dental treatment is needed when the the pulp (The pulp: contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue and creates the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth during development) becomes inflamed or infected. This inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: such as deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Also, a injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.