The Importance of Senior Dental Care
Gum disease, tooth loss, cavities, dry mouth, and the need for crowns, bridges, implants, or dentures can become more common with age. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), nearly half of adults age 30 and older have some form of periodontitis, a serious gum infection that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Despite the importance of dental care, many older Americans are surprised to learn that Original Medicare does not cover most routine dental services, including cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, or dentures. Medicare may cover certain dental services only in limited situations when they are intricately connected to other covered medical care. For most routine dental needs, the cost still comes out of your own pocket.
That is why it makes sense to consider ways to protect yourself from the rising cost of dental care before a problem becomes urgent.
How to Manage Rising Dental Costs
Brian Gay, Vice President of Operations in AMAC’s Health and Dental Insurance Division, says there are a variety of dental plan options available for individuals and families of all ages that can help make dental care more manageable.
For more comprehensive coverage, Gay recommends considering a traditional standalone dental insurance plan, like the plans offered through AMAC exclusively for members. Depending on the plan, benefits may include preventive, diagnostic, basic, and major care, covering services such as exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures. Some coverage may be subject to waiting periods, limitations, or exclusions. Vision coverage may also be available as an added option.
Gay also points to the popularity of dental discount plans offered through AMAC. These plans are not insurance. Instead, they provide savings on a variety of dental services through participating dentists. For some people — especially those who need dental work soon or have gone without prior coverage — a dental discount plan may be a practical way to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
“Dental discount plans can be a good option for folks who need immediate dental work and have not had prior coverage,” Gay says. “Most plans charge a low membership fee, paid monthly or annually, and the savings can be significant when using participating providers.”
Putting it Together
Good oral health can affect how you eat, speak, feel, and live — and as we age, routine dental care becomes even more important. When it comes to dental coverage, the right solution depends on your needs, budget, dental history, and how soon you may need care. Some people may benefit from insurance, while others may prefer a discount plan. The important thing is to understand your options before dental costs catch you by surprise.
Taking care of your teeth is about more than maintaining a healthy smile. Count on AMAC’s Health and Dental Insurance Division to help you protect those pearly whites.
