Poor Dental Health Can Lead to Some Surprisingly Bad Outcomes
Having a personal health insurance benefits package that includes dental insurance is crucial for several reasons. Dental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being. Addressing oral health needs can contribute significantly to maintaining a healthy body. In addition to the cosmetic benefits, good dental hygiene increases self confidence. Dental work can be expensive however, so it’s important to carry dental insurance as part of your overall insurance repertoire.
7 Ways Dental Insurance & Quality Care Can Make a Difference
Just having good dental insurance isn’t enough…you have to use it! Regular exams and cleaning to stay ahead of any potential problems is vital. Bad dental care can lead to some bad health outcomes. Here are seven bullet points outlining how healthy gums and teeth can positively impact your overall health:
- Preventing Systemic Infections: Poor oral health, such as gum disease, can lead to bacterial infections that may spread to other parts of the body, potentially affecting the heart, lungs, and other organs.
- Supporting Digestion and Nutrition: Healthy teeth enable efficient chewing, aiding in proper digestion and ensuring that essential nutrients are effectively absorbed by the body.
- Maintaining a Healthy Immune System: Oral infections can strain the immune system, making it less effective in fighting off other illnesses and infections.
- Reducing the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Studies have shown a link between gum disease and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining good oral health can help reduce this risk.
- Managing Diabetes: Diabetic individuals are more susceptible to gum disease, and poor oral health can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. Proper dental care is essential for those with diabetes. Having dental insurance means you can keep this in check with regular exams.
- Protecting Respiratory Health: Bacteria from oral infections can be aspirated into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory problems, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Enhancing Overall Quality of Life: Good oral health contributes to fresh breath, a confident smile, and improved self-esteem, leading to better mental well-being and overall quality of life.
Going Backwards
Unfortunately, dental care in general is often one of the first things to go when money gets tight. It’s too easy for people to decide their teeth look fine, and nothing hurts…so we’ll skip the dentist this time. Bad oral care leads into one or more of the problems mentioned above, and suddenly things are much worse.
From 2019 to 2020, the percentage of adults aged 18−64 who had a dental visit in the past 12 months declined overall (from 65.5% to 62.7%)
CDC.gov
Stay Ahead of the Game with Dental Insurance
Having a personal health insurance package that includes dental coverage is essential in safeguarding both your oral and overall health. Dental health is intricately linked to various aspects of our well-being, and addressing oral health needs proactively can contribute significantly to maintaining a healthy body and reducing potential health risks in the long run.
Finding a health insurance policy that works for RVers and includes dental insurance is our specialty at RVer Insurance Exchange. We know the health care business, and we understand RVers. Most of us are or have been RVers ourselves. Contact us or give us a call at (800) 867-4330, and we’ll answer any questions you may have about health insurance, dental insurance, medicare…whatever you need.
