Autoimmune disease can affect your general and dental health negatively. They cause the body’s immune system to attack healthy cells. Not only can this affect your wellness, but it can also cause oral health problems. There are over 100 autoimmune disorders affecting 24 million people. With your oral and systemic health connected, regular dental care is essential. If you have dental insurance, time is running out to use your coverage. Here’s how to maximize your benefits to keep your mouth and body healthy.
Autoimmune Diseases and Dental Health
Autoimmune diseases can cause oral manifestations, like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, which causes chronic inflammation that affects the body’s organs and systems. However, it can also cause oral discoid lesions and gingivitis. Sjogren Syndrome can affect the salivary glands, which can cause chronic dry mouth. A dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health for any changes. They can spot signs of common autoimmune diseases that haven’t been diagnosed. They can also create a personalized treatment plan to protect your mouth from the complications of autoimmune diseases.
You don’t have to worry about large bills. Your dental insurance gives you access to the comprehensive care you need for reduced rates.
Maximize Your Dental Insurance
Your premiums give you access to reduced rates for the services you need for a healthy smile. A co-pay allows you to visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Your insurance will cover 100% of the expenses of preventive dental services. You’ll avoid meeting costly services later by keeping your teeth and gums healthy. If your dentist finds anything concerning, your dental insurance can pay 50% to 80% of the expenses for medically necessary procedures after meeting your annual deductible. You can use your yearly allowance to lower the amount you pay out-of-pocket.
Your dental benefits don’t last forever. They will expire at the end of the year and you’ll lose anything you have not used. With less than 3% of Americans meeting or exceeding their yearly limits, billions of dollars are lost in unused dental benefits every year.
You can use your dental coverage to keep your mouth healthy and safeguard it from the effects of autoimmune disorders. Your dentist will help you maximize your coverage to reach your goals while staying within your budget.
About Dr. Sumit Chanana
Dr. Chanana achieved his dental degree at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has continued his education in many specialties to help his patients achieve optimal oral health. He accepts dental insurance to keep his services affordable. If it is time for your next cleaning and checkup, request an appointment through his website or call his office at (262) 444-0030.