Did you know that 92% of adults will experience tooth decay? Your teeth are regularly exposed to cavity-causing bacteria from sugars and starches in the foods and drinks you consume. Bacteria can weaken your enamel until a small hole forms. No amount of brushing can reverse tooth decay. Your dentist can spot the early signs of enamel loss during routine cleanings and checkups. They’ll recommend a dental filling to protect your tooth from eventually needing to be removed. If you’ve been delaying treatment, don’t wait any longer. Use your dental insurance for the filling you need before your coverage expires.
Risks of Delaying Treatment
Early stages of tooth decay may not cause any symptoms, but that doesn’t mean you can delay treatment. Bacteria can reach deeper into your tooth, infecting the pulp. Once the innermost layer of your tooth is compromised, a filling will no longer be enough.
Instead, you’ll require a root canal to extract the pulp and remove the decay. A root canal is more costly and invasive than a dental filling. If you continue to delay treatment, your tooth can die and will need to be removed.
Losing even a single tooth can cause your jawbone to shrink by up to 25% within the first year. Your bone will continue to deteriorate over time, changing the shape of your face and increasing your risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss.
Dental Insurance Covers Dental Fillings
If the cost is the reason you’ve been putting off scheduling your procedure, you don’t have to worry about a large bill. Your dental insurance will pay 70% to 80% of the expenses after meeting your annual deductible. You can save your tooth for minimal out-of-pocket expenses; however, time is running out.
Your Dental Insurance Expires
Your dental benefits don’t last forever. They will expire at the end of the year, and you’ll lose anything you haven’t used. Nothing carries over, and you aren’t reimbursed for your premiums or deductibles. With less than 3% of Americans meeting or exceeding their annual limits, you have the allowance you need to save your tooth.
Your dentist will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize any applicable coverage. If there are any out-of-pocket expenses, you can pay the remaining balance using a monthly payment plan through a third-party financing company, like CareCredit.
You can head into the new year with a healthy, beautiful smile by maximizing your dental coverage before it resets.
About Dr. Mu Salayta
Dr. Salayta earned his dental degree from the University of Southern California and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, like Invisalign, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. He accepts many dental insurance plans to keep his services affordable. Dr. Salayta is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Book an appointment through his website or call (918) 300-3909.