When you retire, you may gain ample free time, but you could also lose some of the benefits you had while you were employed. This includes things like medical and dental insurance. Unfortunately, relying on Medicare to protect your teeth isn’t a good idea, as this program does not cover preventive oral health care. So, what can you do to ensure that your smile stays healthy long into the future?
A dental savings plan could be the answer. Offered directly through your dentist, these plans allow you to make convenient monthly payments towards preventive dental care, so you’ll never need to worry about being uninsured. Here are some more perks that will leave you smiling!
Weather the Changes of Your Smile
As you age, your oral health needs change, too. Your mouth begins to show signs of wear from eating, drinking, stress, and other factors. The teeth can also begin to shift after age 40, which could change your bite, making it uncomfortable and causing uneven wear. Thus, skipping preventive oral health care is a bad idea.
Seniors and Tooth Loss
Another danger as you age is an increased risk of tooth loss. In fact, on average, people over the age of 65 only have about 19 teeth. Many things can contribute to tooth loss as you get older. Dry mouth from medications can lead to increased tooth decay, while skipping oral hygiene due to a lack of mobility can make matters even worse.
Medicare and Dentistry
Medicare does not cover dental issues unless they are part of an ongoing medical problem, or it is part of an emergency procedure. Therefore, many seniors turn to Medicare Part C, aka a Medicare Advantage Plan. These plans provide some coverage for vision and dental, but you are still responsible for co-pays and must visit in-network providers.
There are a variety of Medicare Advantage Plans available at different coverage levels, deductibles, and premiums, but finding one that best suits your needs is up to you.
How do Dental Savings Plans Work?
Dental savings plans can provide valuable discounts and savings on oral health care for seniors and young people who do not have dental insurance. When you enroll, you can either pay for your entire annual membership in full, or some dentists may be able to bill you monthly. Most plans cover two preventive exam and cleaning appointments each year, as well as a discount on other services such as cosmetic or restorative procedures.
Unlike dental insurance, with dental savings plans, there are a variety of perks, including:
- No waiting periods
- No claim forms
- No deductible
- No annual maximum
- Can be used on any service
- You can enroll at any time
Dental savings plans are a great option for seniors, because they provide valuable care at an affordable price. Furthermore, when you’ve committed yourself to a plan, you are more likely to make your oral health a priority. After all, you’re paying for the care, you might as well use it!Top of Form
Remember, you worked hard and earned the reward of relaxing in your golden years, but your teeth are still working full time. Don’t let your oral health fall by the wayside after retirement. Speak to your dentist today about a dental savings plan and protect that beautiful smile for a lifetime!
About Our Practice
At Juno Beach Smiles, we want to ensure that our patients have a lifetime of excellent oral health. That’s why we are proud to provide a valuable dental savings plan for people of all ages. Whether you’re a single adult, have a young family, or you’re a senior embarking on the joys of retirement, these plans can help keep your teeth and gums safe without the need for dental insurance or Medicare Part C.
To learn more about this money saving plan, please call our front office today for assistance, or you can join right from our website!