“Prioritize Your Health: The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups”

Oral hygiene: In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook certain aspects of our health. While many diligently schedule annual physicals and screenings, dental care often falls by the wayside. A recent study from the National Library of Medicine revealed that nearly half of American adults postponed their dental visits during the pandemic, and even before that, a significant portion did not see their dentist annually.

Oral hygiene: Dr. Cary Sun, Chief Dental Officer at Cigna Healthcare, emphasizes the crucial role dental care plays in our overall health and wellness. Neglecting dental checkups can lead to serious consequences such as gingivitis, gum disease, cavities, and even more extensive issues like the need for root canals or crowns, or tooth loss.

One alarming trend identified in recent research is the high out-of-pocket costs associated with dental treatments, which often deter individuals from seeking timely care. However, preventive measures like regular exams and cleanings typically involve little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Delaying dental care due to cost concerns can exacerbate oral health problems and result in more significant financial burdens down the line.

Moreover, scientific studies consistently highlight the interconnection between oral health and overall well-being. Gum disease, for instance, has been linked to inflammation, which can precede heart attacks, strokes, and other vascular events. Recognizing the implications of neglected dental health, it becomes evident that regular checkups are not just about maintaining a bright smile but are integral to preserving our overall health.

For those concerned about the financial aspect, it’s essential to review existing dental insurance plans for available benefits. Dental plans can be purchased throughout the year, with a variety of affordable options to suit different needs. Comprehensive plans offered through employers often cover essential treatments like exams, cleanings, crowns, root canals, gum therapy, extractions, and even orthodontics.

Individuals without dental insurance can utilize online tools for comparison shopping, seek assistance from brokers, or directly contact insurers to explore personalized options. It’s a proactive step that not only ensures access to necessary care but can also prevent future financial strains.

Addressing the common fear of visiting the dentist, Dr. Sun reassures that many dental practitioners accommodate anxious patients by providing comfort items like headphones and sunglasses. Additionally, innovative approaches such as teledentistry have emerged, allowing individuals to consult with dentists from the comfort of their homes through imaging and communication technologies.

For those covered by Cigna Healthcare, the Cigna Dental Virtual Care platform, in collaboration with dental.com, offers a convenient solution. This service provides access to a network of on-call, in-network dentists 24/7. Through video consultations, licensed dentists can triage urgent situations, prescribe medications, and address concerns such as pain, infection, and swelling.

Taking a step further, Cigna Dental customers can use their smartphones to screen for potential oral health issues at no cost. SmartScan, a cutting-edge technology powered by the dental.com partnership, guides patients through taking photos of their teeth and mouth. While not a substitute for an in-person examination, SmartScan analyzes these photos to identify issues like plaque buildup, cavities, or tooth damage.

Dr. Sun concludes, “It’s a perfect time to take control of your oral health. Innovations in dental care make it easier than ever to gain peace of mind from a checkup or to catch the little problems before they become major, painful, and expensive ones.” So, don’t brush off the dentist this year; prioritize your health with regular dental checkups.

Oral hygiene:

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