The Top 10 Things Dentists Want You to Know About Your Teeth
Top 10 tidbits on daily oral hygiene
Your mouth and your teeth see a lot of action. Smiling, eating, smooching; the list goes on. So, you need your teeth to be at the top of their game. Here are ten things you need to know about your teeth.
1. Plaque is coating the surfaces of your teeth with bacteria right now.
Plaque is very thin so you can’t always tell just by looking or feeling. It sticks to all parts of your teeth and gums, and plaque is at the root of tooth decay and other dental disease. It builds up every day which is why it’s important to brush and floss every day.
2. Bacteria grow even faster in super dry mouths.
Saliva is an important tool for fighting cavities and keeping teeth clean. A dry mouth, sometimes caused by medication, can be very bad for your teeth. Saliva can neutralize acids and it has antibacterial properties. What can help? Drink lots of water, but you can also use saliva increasing toothpaste and mouth rinses.
3. Don’t forget to brush and floss in the morning.
Sure you brushed and flossed before you went to bed, but plaque can still coat your teeth while you are sleeping. One reason is because your mouth can become dry overnight. (See#2) Whether before or after breakfast, make sure you brush and floss.
How to Brush teeth the proper way!
4. You might be flossing the wrong way.
Hurray! You’re using floss. But if you are not doing it right, you are not getting the benefits of your actions. Many people quickly run the floss between their teeth and move on to the next one. Try holding the floss at an angle and wrap it around the tooth so you scrape the plaque off when you move it up and down.
5. Brushing hard can hurt your gums.
If soft is good, harder is better right? Not when it comes to brushing. Brushing too hard can wear away the surface of your gums and teeth causing more problems down the road. Always use a soft bristle tooth brush and use a circular motion when close to the gum line.
6. Get chipped teeth fixed right away.
When you chip a tooth you expose the dentin, a soft tissue that covers the root. This can lead to decay when bacteria gets inside the chipped part of the tooth.
7. Fluoride really does make a difference.
According to the American Dental Association, ingesting fluoride and using fluoride toothpaste or rinses has been proven to reduce up to 40% of tooth decay. Fluoride is naturally found in most all water sources, rivers, lakes, wells and even the oceans. For the past 70 years, fluoride has been added to public water supplies to bring fluoride levels up to the amount necessary to help prevent tooth decay.
8. Teach your children well.
Ok parents, as with many things, you are the primary role model for your kids when it comes to dental care. Teach them good habits to prevent issues now and in the future.
9. Take care of your teeth, take care of your health.
Disease and bacteria that start in your mouth, can affect your overall health. Issues with your mouth can make eating difficult, which can lead to poor nutrition and all that that may bring. Some research shows a link between gum disease bacteria and heart disease.
10. See your dentist every six months for a cleaning.
Brushing and flossing every day? Great! Keep it up. But see your dentist at least once every six months for a full cleaning. Your dentist can provide a deeper cleaning and help uncover small problems before they become bigger ones. (And then you get to keep your real teeth.)
See you at your next visit!
All Smiles,
Dr. Schlueter & Team
Get the Most Out of This Year’s Dental Benefits
Get excited for new dental benefits! With the introduction of enhanced coverage options, you can now enjoy greater access to preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments. Ensure your smile remains bright and healthy with comprehensive plans that make it easier to visit your dentist regularly. This is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your oral health and make necessary improvements without worrying about the financial burden. Explore your new benefits and schedule your appointment with Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash today for a confident, healthy smile!
Every year, thousands of dollars in dental benefits get wasted. Why? We all forget to schedule dental appointments before it’s too late.
Many dental insurance plans run on the calendar year, so now is the time to schedule a dental appointment to take advantage of end-of-year benefits. So, what are the best ways to get the biggest bang for your dental benefit buck? Check it out:
Yearly Maximum
Most dental insurance plans have a yearly maximum, which is how much the insurance company is willing to pay in one year for your dental work. Each insurance company’s yearly maximum is different, so check your benefits plan to be sure. The industry average seems to be about $1,000 per person per year. With yearly maximums, you have to use it or lose it. If you don’t use the benefits, any remaining benefits will not roll over into the following year. Use the benefits now while you can!
Deductibles
Depending on the dental insurance plan your employer carries, you may have to pay a deductible at each preventive visit and for various procedures. The deductible is the portion of the bill you must pay out of pocket until your insurance kicks in. So, if you have a $1,000 deductible, you must spend $1,000 in dental medical costs before insurance starts paying for your bill. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive maintenance, such as cleanings, etc. Keep in mind that your deductible could be higher if you use an out-of-network dentist, so do your research before choosing your dental care provider.
If you have met your annual deductible for the year, this could be the right time to get some required dental work done. Once the new dental plan year starts, your deductible resets.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Flexible spending accounts (FSA) are a great way to save money for health expenses tax-free. The money you set aside in an FSA isn’t taxed, which means you get an even bigger bang for your buck.
To ensure you get the most out of your FSA, use your accrued money by the end of your benefits year. Typically, FSA funds do not roll over into the next benefits plan year, but check with your employer for more details. Also, contact your FSA administrator to find out what services are and are not covered. Some FSA plans do not allow funds to be used for cosmetic procedures such as whitening, veneers, or cosmetic braces.
Now that you know why using up your end-of-year benefits is so important, here are two of the best ways to use them:
Preventive Maintenance
Ok, this is the easiest place to start. If you haven’t had a preventive cleaning and check-up in the last six months, get it on the calendar now. Seeing your dentist at least once every six months for a full cleaning can help uncover small problems before they become bigger ones.
Many dentists’ calendars fill up at the end of the year since other people are using up their dental benefits, too. Dental insurance companies often have a benefits deadline of December 31, and that year’s benefits go away after that date. At the start of the new year, the benefits start fresh. Your employer’s dental insurance plan may have different start and end dates, so check your benefits plan to be sure.
Before you come in for your appointment, ask yourself these questions:
Are your gums bleeding when you brush? If so, that can be a symptom of gum disease. The sooner you tell us, the sooner we can help you.Do you have any pain in any of your teeth? Pain or sensitivity when you’re biting down or eating hot/cold foods could mean you have cracked teeth, broken fillings, or cavities. Even if the pain is fairly mild, let us know. It’s always better to check it out sooner rather than later.
Are there any spots in your mouth that aren’t healing normally? It could be nothing, but there’s also a chance it could be oral cancer. At Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash, we do oral cancer screenings at every check-up.
Are you having trouble flossing or brushing? Jagged teeth, broken fillings, or some medical conditions could make it tough to floss or brush. Let us know, and we can get to the root of the problem (Get it?!? Root of the problem? Sorry, bad joke).
Have you been clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth? Sometimes, our patients don’t even realize that they’ve been doing it. In those cases, they wake up with a tension headache or a tight jaw without realizing the cause. Both clenching and grinding your teeth can wear down your teeth and make them more susceptible to decay and cavities.
If you don’t currently have dental insurance through your employer, you can often find dental membership plans that provide dental services at a discounted rate. Dr. Schlueter offers a dental membership plan. Call the office at 513.540.3268 to learn more or ask about it at your next appointment.
More In-Depth Dental Procedures
If you have met your deductible and you know that you need to have a dental procedure completed, this is the perfect time to make an appointment with your dentist. Be sure to talk to the billing team at the dentists’ office to be sure your dental plan coverage is going to cover what you anticipated. That way, you can avoid any surprises.
Summary
It’s incredibly important to use your dental benefits to your advantage. At Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash, we love keeping our patients’ smiles happy and healthy. Please let us know if there is anything else we can do to make you feel more comfortable, and we’ll see you at your next visit.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas Guaranteed to Make You Smile
Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Christmas
Mini Toothbrushes and Toothpaste - Encourage dental hygiene with travel-sized brushes and flavorsome toothpaste.
Dental Floss - A practical gift that promotes good oral health habits.
Lip Balm - Perfect for keeping lips moisturized during the winter months.
Mouthwash - Travel-sized bottles for freshening breath on the go.
Sugar-Free Gum - A sweet treat that also helps clean teeth and freshen breath.
Chewing Candy - Look for options that are lower in sugar to promote healthier snacking.
Dental-Themed Ornaments - Fun and festive, these can add a unique touch to the tree.
Personalized Toothbrush Holder - Unique designs that reflect personal style.
Children’s Dental Books - Fun stories that teach kids about dental care.
Gift Cards for a Dental Visit - A thoughtful gift that encourages regular check-ups.
These stocking stuffers not only add joy to the holidays but also promote good dental practices for a confident, healthy smile.
Looking for some stocking stuffers for that special someone? Check out these possibilities to bring smiles on Christmas morning and beyond!
For the Kids
Light-up Toothbrush. Light up your kid’s teeth brushing with the GUM® Crayola® Timer Light toothbrush. It has LED lights that flash for sixty seconds, the minimum time they should brush one jaw before moving to the other.
Cupcake toothpaste. Brushing your teeth with real frosting kind of defeats the purpose, but with this Cupcake Toothpaste you get all the fabulous flavor of frosting without another root canal!
For Adults
Bacon toothpaste. Brushing your teeth with a strip of cooked bacon probably wouldn’t work. So, when it’s time to brush your teeth, leave the bacon strips for breakfast and try this Bacon Toothpaste.
Tooth Socks. Your feet will be smiling when you slip into a pair of these tooth socks.
Whitening. Get your smile bright and shiny for the new year! There are a lot of great teeth whitening products out there, but if you want to take it to the next level, we provide Zoom Whitening products. We’d be happy to tell you more!
Electric Toothbrushes. Sonicare DiamondClean Sonic electric toothbrushes have diamond shaped bristles to effectively yet gently remove surface stains and scrape away plaque. Removes stain build up from coffee, tea, red wine, cigarettes and tobacco in just and week. Dr. Schlueter highly recommends these toothbrushes, and we keep them in stock at Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash — just in time for Christmas.
Don’t Forget the Dog!
Dog Bones. Keep your dog’s teeth clean and freshen their breath with BONIES Natural Dental Health. This unique dog bone uses all-natural ingredients. Made to be a healthy treat for your dog while freshening their breath at the same time. Intended for dogs weighing 25 or more lbs.
From all of us at Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash, have a very happy holiday and an even happier new year!
All Smiles,
Dr. Schlueter & Team
Teeth Whitening Fast Facts
Change your day and your smile with Phillips Zoom Whitening!
Let’s face it: The first thing someone notices about you is your smile. That is, if you aren’t afraid to show it. A recent survey showed that 80% of Americans age 18-49 want whiter teeth. What’s even more interesting is that 85% of those surveyed were women. Another survey showed 40 percent of women say that an imperfect smile makes someone less appealing. Plus, other recent studies show that bad teeth can even prevent otherwise qualified candidates from getting jobs or promotions. It almost sounds crazy to say, but having discolored teeth could be holding people back from getting dates or even getting their dream jobs. It’s no wonder so many of us are worried about our smiles.
Causes of Teeth Discoloration
First let’s take a look at why your teeth may not be as bright as you’d like. Things such as aging, heredity and medication can darken your teeth and there’s not much you can do. Other causes of discoloration can be controlled such as smoking, drinking red wine or dark tea. Sure, you could always chase that glass of Cabernet with a glass of Chardonnay, but is that really the best way to brighten your teeth? No, no it’s not.
Ways to Whiten
There are many readily available ways to whiten your teeth. Commercially available white strips are a popular option. Some people prefer daily use of a whitening toothpaste. These choices may work better for some than others and after discontinuing their use, the dark stains usually return. But do you think celebrities only rely on a good whitening toothpaste? Ummm, probably not. Especially if they’re getting ready for a high-profile public appearance.
Is Whitening Safe?
Some do-it-yourself home whitening kits leave the responsibility up to the user. Obviously, this can lead to some issues. If the whitening trays are not custom fitted for your mouth, whitening gel can get on your gums, causing irritation and possibly damage. Also, too much whitening gel too fast can permanently damage teeth. That’s probably NOT the result you were looking for.
Zoom Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is the process of changing shades of your teeth to a lighter color through the use of dental bleach. Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash uses the Phillips Zoom whitening system brighten your teeth up to eight shades in under 90 minutes. We call it Zoom Whitening because the process is so quick compared to other methods. This is the quickest way to get that radiant smile you’ve always wanted. Some teeth sensitivity may occur, so you may want to begin brushing with an anti-sensitivity toothpaste before your treatment and continue after it as well. Studies have not shown any damage to teeth whitening by an intense treatment, but it is very important that you trust this procedure to a professional. Dr. Schlueter will gladly answer any questions you may have. Plus, right now, Philips is offering a $50 rebate off Zoom Whitening.
To get started on Zoom Whitening, call us at 513.547.3850 to schedule an appointment. We can’t wait to see you.
Halloween Candy Do’s and Don’ts
If you’re kids are planning to go trick-or-treating this year rather than sit and wait for the Great Pumpkin, here are a few suggestions for keeping their teeth healthy after they come home with bags of candy.
Moderation
As with anything, it’s about moderation. We love candy here at Advanced Dentistry, but we recognize that too much can cause short- and long-term damage. Enjoy a piece or two at a time, but don’t overdo it. In fact, maybe have your kids pick their favorites and donate the rest to troops overseas through organizations like Operation Gratitude.
Choose Candy Carefully
Sticky and hard candies are the most problematic. Sticky candy, like taffy or gummy snacks, stay on the teeth longer and increase the chance of tooth decay. Hard candies can cause cracks or broken teeth that require immediate attention.
Better candies to eat?
· Chocolate, such as candy bars, are not only the most popular candy, they dissolve quickly in the mouth, leaving little time for the sugar to do any negative work. Beware of chocolate with caramel or nuts. They can cause trouble for the same reasons as listed above.
· Believe it or not, powdery candy, such as sugar straws, isn’t as bad for teeth as you might think. Yes it’s pure sugar, but powdery candy dissolves quickly and doesn’t stick to the teeth.
And of course, after eating candy – or any food – don’t forget to floss and brush.
Happy Halloween!
All Smiles,
Dr. Schlueter and Team
Is Invisalign Right For You?
Clear aligners are a popular orthodontic option for those seeking a straighter smile without the inconvenience of traditional metal braces. They are designed to be discreet, comfortable, and effective. However, determining if clear aligners are right for you requires consideration of several factors.
Misalignment Severity: Clear aligners are most effective for mild to moderate dental misalignments. If you have severe orthodontic issues, traditional braces may be a better option. A consultation with a dental professional can help assess your specific needs.
Commitment to Treatment: Clear aligners require a commitment to wearing them for 20 to 22 hours each day. If you can adhere to this schedule, you may be a suitable candidate. Your compliance significantly affects the overall success of the treatment.
Lifestyle and Aesthetic Preferences: Many individuals prefer clear aligners due to their nearly invisible appearance. If aesthetics are important to you, clear aligners may be a preferred choice over traditional braces.
Oral Health Considerations: Good oral health is essential before starting any orthodontic treatment. If you have untreated cavities or gum disease, these issues should be addressed first.
Cost and Treatment Time: While clear aligners can be more expensive than traditional braces, they often offer shorter treatment times for certain cases. Discussing the financial aspects and potential insurance coverage with your provider can help you make an informed decision.
Age Considerations: Clear aligners are suitable for both teens and adults. However, adolescents may need to consider growth factors and the development of their jaw when selecting this option.
In summary, clear aligners can be an effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for many individuals seeking orthodontic treatment. A thorough evaluation by your dental professional will provide clarity on whether clear aligners are the right choice for your unique situation. For personalized guidance, consider scheduling a consultation at Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash.
Raise your hand if you wish you had straighter teeth. (We’ll wait.) Well, you’re in luck! At Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash, we offer Invisalign – simply one of the easiest ways to improve your smile without braces.
If you’ve been considering Invisalign treatment, here’s what you need to know:
Invisalign is suited for anyone looking to get the smile they’ve always wanted.
Whether you’re just wanting a tune-up from years of braces in your past, or need a complete smile overhaul, this system can absolutely work for you. This system of clear trays is easy for on-the-go individuals who don’t want to sacrifice the visual appeal of their natural smile with traditional braces.
The process is simple.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Schlueter, create a personalized treatment plan with smile scans and a full roadmap of your Invisalign journey, and order your customized trays to begin the process!
During your initial consultation, Dr. Schlueter will take digital molds of your teeth utilizing 3D imaging from iTero Scanner, which is sent off to their production line. Aligner trays are created utilizing a specifically engineered material for a close, comfortable fit that you won’t notice in your everyday life, and are hand-checked for quality immediately after production.
Once you have your first set of liners, you’ll wear them on a daily basis. New sets of trays are sent to you throughout the process as your teeth get straighter and straighter.
Now what about the price?
Invisalign can be surprisingly affordable. Every smile is unique, and so is treatment cost. No matter how long you’ll need Invisalign, Dr. Schlueter can create a payment plan that is effective and easy for you. Before you decide to move forward, Dr. Schlueter can provide an estimate of how long your treatment will be, how many trays that will involve, how much your insurance can cover, and how much may be left for you to cover.
Are you ready to learn more?
Book your Invisalign consultation with us today! Need more information? Visit their website here for a full visual description of the process: https://www.invisalign.com
Should I Get Botox?
When most people hear the word “Botox,” they wonder why a dentist would offer that service. Obviously, Botox is most well-known for temporarily improving the appearance of severe forehead lines, crow’s feet lines, and frown lines between the eyebrows in adults.
However, did you also know that Botox can be used to relieve the pain associated with TMJ, teeth grinding, or even migraines?
Kelsey, one of our team members, has found relief for her pain associated with jaw tension by receiving Botox treatments. In this video, Dr. Schlueter demonstrates how easy the process can be. Plus, Kelsey shares her experience as well as just how long her results lasted.
If you’re interested in learning more about how Botox can work for you, call us at 513.547.3850 or make an appointment here.
Bacon Toothpaste: Yay or Nay?
Bacon toothpaste has emerged as a unique and unconventional dental product that appeals to bacon enthusiasts looking for a way to enjoy their favorite flavor even while maintaining oral hygiene. This innovative toothpaste combines traditional oral care ingredients with the smoky and savory taste of bacon, aiming to create an enjoyable brushing experience.
The primary ingredients are typically standard toothpaste components, including fluoride for cavity protection, abrasive agents for plaque removal, and flavoring agents that mimic the taste of bacon. While the idea might raise eyebrows in the dental community, manufacturers assert that it promotes good dental health while providing a fun twist on daily routines.
However, it's essential to approach such novelty products with caution. While bacon toothpaste might make brushing more enjoyable for some, it's crucial to consider the overall nutritional and health implications. Consumers should ensure that flavoring does not compromise the effectiveness of the toothpaste in fighting cavities and enhancing oral health.
Ultimately, while bacon toothpaste could make for a fun novelty item or gift for a bacon lover, it should not replace traditional dental care essentials. Regular brushing with standard fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and dental check-ups remain foundational for maintaining
Bacon toothpaste has emerged as a unique and unconventional dental product that appeals to bacon enthusiasts looking for a way to enjoy their favorite flavor even while maintaining oral hygiene. This innovative toothpaste combines traditional oral care ingredients with the smoky and savory taste of bacon, aiming to create an enjoyable brushing experience.
The primary ingredients are typically standard toothpaste components, including fluoride for cavity protection, abrasive agents for plaque removal, and flavoring agents that mimic the taste of bacon. While the idea might raise eyebrows in the dental community, manufacturers assert that it promotes good dental health while providing a fun twist on daily routines.
However, it's essential to approach such novelty products with caution. While bacon toothpaste might make brushing more enjoyable for some, it's crucial to consider the overall nutritional and health implications. Consumers should ensure that flavoring does not compromise the effectiveness of the toothpaste in fighting cavities and enhancing oral health.
Ultimately, while bacon toothpaste could make for a fun novelty item or gift for a bacon lover, it should not replace traditional dental care essentials. Regular brushing with standard fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and dental check-ups remain foundational for maintaining a healthy smile.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to try bacon toothpaste? Well, the team at Advanced Dentistry decided to give bacon toothpaste a go, in all its bacon-y (is that a word?) glory. The results were, well, interesting.
How Can I Save Money on Dental Bills?
Saving Money on Dental Bills
Dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but it can also be expensive. Here are several strategies to help you save money on your dental bills while still receiving quality care.
1. Regular Preventive Care
Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent larger, more costly procedures down the road. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at little or no cost, making it a wise financial choice.
2. Utilize Insurance Benefits
If you have dental insurance, be sure to understand your coverage. Maximize your benefits by scheduling treatments within the coverage period and utilizing in-network providers, which often offer lower rates.
3. Consider a Dental Savings Plan
If you don’t have insurance, look into a dental savings plan. These plans typically require an annual fee and offer discounted rates on dental services, making them a cost-effective alternative.
4. Discuss Treatment Options
Before proceeding with any dental procedure, discuss your treatment options with your dentist. They can provide information on different approaches that may be more affordable, as well as financing options to
Saving Money on Dental Bills
Dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but it can also be expensive. Here are several strategies to help you save money on your dental bills while still receiving quality care.
1. Regular Preventive Care
Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent larger, more costly procedures down the road. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at little or no cost, making it a wise financial choice.
2. Utilize Insurance Benefits
If you have dental insurance, be sure to understand your coverage. Maximize your benefits by scheduling treatments within the coverage period and utilizing in-network providers, which often offer lower rates.
3. Consider a Dental Savings Plan
If you don’t have insurance, look into a dental savings plan. These plans typically require an annual fee and offer discounted rates on dental services, making them a cost-effective alternative.
4. Discuss Treatment Options
Before proceeding with any dental procedure, discuss your treatment options with your dentist. They can provide information on different approaches that may be more affordable, as well as financing options to help manage costs.
5. Take Advantage of Promotions
Many
Saving Money on Dental Bills
Dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but it can also be expensive. Here are several strategies to help you save money on your dental bills while still receiving quality care.
1. Regular Preventive Care
Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent larger, more costly procedures down the road. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at little or no cost, making it a wise financial choice.
2. Utilize Insurance Benefits
If you have dental insurance, be sure to understand your coverage. Maximize your benefits by scheduling treatments within the coverage period and utilizing in-network providers, which often offer lower rates.
3. Consider a Dental Savings Plan
If you don’t have insurance, look into a dental savings plan. These plans typically require an annual fee and offer discounted rates on dental services, making them a cost-effective alternative.
4. Discuss Treatment Options
Before proceeding with any dental procedure, discuss your treatment options with your dentist. They can provide information on different approaches that may be more affordable, as well as financing options to help manage costs.
5. Take Advantage of Promotions
Many dental practices offer special promotions for new patients or seasonal discounts. Keep an eye out for these offers, which can significantly reduce the cost of your dental care.
6. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home can help prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. This means less need for expensive treatments and fewer visits to the dentist.
7. Be Proactive with Minor Issues
Addressing dental problems early can prevent them from escalating into more serious conditions.
Saving Money on Dental Bills
Dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but it can also be expensive. Here are several strategies to help you save money on your dental bills while still receiving quality care.
1. Regular Preventive Care
Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent larger, more costly procedures down the road. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at little or no cost, making it a wise financial choice.
2. Utilize Insurance Benefits
If you have dental insurance, be sure to understand your coverage. Maximize your benefits by scheduling treatments within the coverage period and utilizing in-network providers, which often offer lower rates.
3. Consider a Dental Savings Plan
If you don’t have insurance, look into a dental savings plan. These plans typically require an annual fee and offer discounted rates on dental services, making them a cost-effective alternative.
4. Discuss Treatment Options
Before proceeding with any dental procedure, discuss your treatment options with your dentist. They can provide information on different approaches that may be more affordable, as well as financing options to help manage costs.
5. Take Advantage of Promotions
Many dental practices offer special promotions for new patients or seasonal discounts. Keep an eye out for these offers, which can significantly reduce the cost of your dental care.
6. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home can help prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. This means less need for expensive treatments and fewer visits to the dentist.
7. Be Proactive with Minor Issues
Addressing dental problems early can prevent them from escalating into more serious conditions. If you notice something unusual, schedule an appointment promptly instead of waiting until it worsens.
8. Request Cost Estimates
Saving Money on Dental Bills
Dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but it can also be expensive. Here are several strategies to help you save money on your dental bills while still receiving quality care.
1. Regular Preventive Care
Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent larger, more costly procedures down the road. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at little or no cost, making it a wise financial choice.
2. Utilize Insurance Benefits
If you have dental insurance, be sure to understand your coverage. Maximize your benefits by scheduling treatments within the coverage period and utilizing in-network providers, which often offer lower rates.
3. Consider a Dental Savings Plan
If you don’t have insurance, look into a dental savings plan. These plans typically require an annual fee and offer discounted rates on dental services, making them a cost-effective alternative.
4. Discuss Treatment Options
Before proceeding with any dental procedure, discuss your treatment options with your dentist. They can provide information on different approaches that may be more affordable, as well as financing options to help manage costs.
5. Take Advantage of Promotions
Many dental practices offer special promotions for new patients or seasonal discounts. Keep an eye out for these offers, which can significantly reduce the cost of your dental care.
6. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home can help prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. This means less need for expensive treatments and fewer visits to the dentist.
7. Be Proactive with Minor Issues
Addressing dental problems early can prevent them from escalating into more serious conditions. If you notice something unusual, schedule an appointment promptly instead of waiting until it worsens.
8. Request Cost Estimates
When planning for a procedure, ask your dentist for a cost estimate beforehand. This will provide you with a clearer understanding of potential charges and help you budget accordingly.
By adopting these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce your dental
Saving Money on Dent
Saving Money on Dental Bills
Dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but it can also be expensive. Here are several strategies to help you save money on your dental bills while still receiving quality care.
1. Regular Preventive Care
Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent larger, more costly procedures down the road. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at little or no cost, making it a wise financial choice.
2. Utilize Insurance Benefits
If you have dental insurance, be sure to understand your coverage. Maximize your benefits by scheduling treatments within the coverage period and utilizing in-network providers, which often offer lower rates.
3. Consider a Dental Savings Plan
If you don’t have insurance, look into a dental savings plan. These plans typically require an annual fee and offer discounted rates on dental services, making them a cost-effective alternative.
4. Discuss Treatment Options
Before proceeding with any dental procedure, discuss your treatment options with your dentist. They can provide information on different approaches that may be more affordable, as well as financing options to help manage costs.
5. Take Advantage of Promotions
Many dental practices offer special promotions for new patients or seasonal discounts. Keep an eye out for these offers, which can significantly reduce the cost of your dental care.
6. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home can help prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. This means less need for expensive treatments and fewer visits to the dentist.
7. Be Proactive with Minor Issues
Addressing dental problems early can prevent them from escalating into more serious conditions. If you notice something unusual, schedule an appointment promptly instead of waiting until it worsens.
8. Request Cost Estimates
When planning for a procedure, ask your dentist for a cost estimate beforehand. This will provide you with a clearer understanding of potential charges and help you budget accordingly.
By adopting these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce your dental expenses without compromising on the quality of care you receive. A confident, healthy smile is not only achievable but can also be affordable.
Posted December 11, 2018.
Sure, there are very important, life-altering questions we’d all rather think about instead of thinking about dental bills: 1.) Is Stranger Things coming back for another season? 2.) How does Mary Poppins fit all that stuff into her bag? and 3.) Are horses really just stripeless zebras?!?
Regardless, from time to time, we all have to find the best way to care for our teeth. After all, as the old saying goes, “Only take care of the teeth you want to keep.”
So, what do you do when you need dental care, but you aren’t sure how you want to pay for it? Or, maybe you’re just looking for ways to save money on your dental bills. Either way, dental savings plans are a good alternative.
WHAT ARE DENTAL SAVINGS PLANS?
Dental savings plans offer a hassle-free, cost-effective alternative to dental insurance. Much like a membership to Costco, you pay an annual fee for discounted products and services. With the dental savings plan offered through Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash, the plan pays for itself in two preventive care visits. Plus, plan members receive discounts on fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and other treatments.
WHO ARE GOOD CANDIDATES FOR THE DENTAL SAVINGS PLAN?
People who use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) plan to manage medical expenses
Younger individuals who are not covered by dental insurance
Senior citizens not covered by dental insurance and on a fixed income
Anyone who wants a dental plan with manageable costs
WHY CHOOSE A DENTAL SAVINGS PLAN?
There are so many benefits to using a dental savings plan, but here are just a few.
No yearly maximums. Use the plan as much or as little as you like.
No claim forms to submit. No paperwork hassles!
No deductibles. Preventive dental care is all covered with the plan, so no deductibles are required.
No activation fees. You only pay the annual membership fee, and then you’re covered.
No pre-authorizations required.
No health restrictions and coverage is guaranteed.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE DENTAL SAVINGS PLAN
This is not a dental insurance plan. This is an in-office savings plan.
All fees for treatment must be paid in full at the time of treatment. Any treatments that aren’t paid for at the time of service will be billed at the regular rate.
The purchase of the Dental Savings Plan is non-refundable.
The Dental Savings Plan covers the plan holder for one year from the date of enrollment.
HOW MUCH DOES THE DENTAL SAVINGS PLAN COST?
The cost of the dental savings plan through Advanced Dentistry of Blue Ash is very competitive. Choose the plan that works best for you:
Individual $349/year
Individual plus spouse $678/year
Family plan (up to 4 members) $1,102/year*
*Add $192 for each additional family member.