Reasons Why Everyone Needs to See Their Dentist Yearly

Reasons Why Everyone Needs to See Their Dentist Yearly:

• Children: Your children should have their first dental visit by age one. A general or pediatric dentist can determine your child’s risk for dental disease and recommend an appropriate dental schedule.
  • Never put your baby to bed with a bottle, and limit sippy-cup use to mealtimes only.
  • Parents or caregivers should brush and floss their children’s teeth until they are age 8 to 10 when adequate motor skills develop.
  • Be sure children use fluoridated toothpaste at least twice daily, and floss once (at a minimum).
  • Limit frequency of sugary drinks and foods to reduce risk of dental decay
  • Look for products containing Xylitol, a natural sweetener, which can help prevent tooth decay.
  • To help prevent dental decay on the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth, ask your dental provider about dental sealants.

• Adults: Adults should continue with routine dental visits. Regular dental cleanings and good home care can help to prevent gum disease and dental decay.
  • Dental exams include oral cancer screenings, which could save your life.
  • The early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, is reversible if diagnosed early.
  • Late stages of gum disease, called periodontal disease, is a chronic infection that has been linked to systemic inflammation and chronic disease, including diabetes and heart disease.
  • Periodontal disease can cause chronic bad breath, receding gums, tooth mobility, and tooth loss.
  • Adults can still develop dental decay; so continue brushing with fluoridated toothpaste, floss regularly, and limit consumption of sugary foods and drinks.
  • Some prescription and over-the-counter medications cause dry mouth, which increases the risk for dental decay—especially on exposed root surfaces.
  • Elderly seniors may require assistance with home care regimens—especially those in residential facilities.

• Patients with Dentures: Those wearing dentures must still visit their dentist regularly to ensure proper fit, and to be screened for oral cancer.
  • Dentures should be removed at night and soaked in denture cleaner.
  • Brush dentures with paste designated for dentures instead of regular toothpaste (as it can scratch denture material).
  • Keep soaking dentures in a secure container and away from pets.
  

  

An affordable dental plan designed around the needs of your business can keep employees smiling and help them be their best.

NHADA’s plans through Northeast Delta Dental protect more smiles than any other dental insurance provider. Our trusted experience, access to the largest network of dentists, and specialized expertise in oral health care make us the perfect partner to help protect your employees’ smiles.

Focus on your business, and let us handle your dental benefits.

To get started, please contact our Licensed Insurance Producer, Lori Preve at
603-224-2369 or lpreve@nhada.com.