A Reason to Smile About Senior Dental Care: Getting the Right Coverage for You

[24hrdental.net]

Seniors have a special set of circumstances nobody really understands until they reach that age group themselves, from health and dental care to aches and pains to finances and transportation and a myriad of things in between. If you're a senior worrying about dental care, however, there are ways to put your mind at ease. Finding the best coverage is your first step. Here's how to accomplish that and more.

Know What You Really Need

If you have a healthy dental history, without a lot of complicated, ongoing issues, you likely only need a senior treatment plan that covers the basics, including regular checkups and cleaning visits. On the other hand, if you have dentures or any other complicated factors going on, an in-depth plan may be necessary. Either way, it's important that your coverage meets your needs without exceeding them. There's no sense in you paying for services you're not likely to ever use and it should be relatively simple for you to switch plans in the future, should the need arise.

Read Any Prospective Plan Carefully

Of course, you're a savvy, educated consumer, but that doesn't mean you should ever forgo reading the fine print. Be aware of potential waiting periods and other particulars that may inconvenience or set you back.

Also, if the plan you're considering allows you to stay with your existing dentist, make sure all procedures you may need will be covered by that office, under that specific plan. For example, a new plan may have special criteria for preexisting issues or a policy of reimbursement for costs you initially incur. Above and beyond reading the fine print, talk to the people associated with a plan you're interested in, as well as someone in your dental professional's office. Read the paperwork and list your questions, then pick up the phone and have them answered.

Plan Ahead For Your Dental Coverage

While you may not be able to predict the future, you should be prepared for it. Buying coverage in advance of needing it is wiser than waiting for a problem to emerge, particularly due to possible wait times with a new policy and not being accepted over the existing dental issues. Although regular cleaning should be available without having to wait, other services may not be.

Find a Senior Dental Care Plan That's Convenient for You

While you obviously want to take great care of your oral health, you don't want to spend hours upon hours filling out forms, waiting in an office or trying to hunt down a dental professional of your choosing. Once you've found a senior dental care plan you're happy with, check to see that your favorite dentist is part of the program, or if they're not, you can find a suitable replacement with whom you're comfortable. Your plan is nearly useless (regardless of how good it is on paper) if you're not happy with the service provider.

Remember that you're Special

All the coverage in the world won't matter if your individual needs aren't being met on a daily basis. Talk to your dentist right away if you notice anything unusual going on in your mouth, like discoloration of teeth, dry mouth, indications of tooth decay or gum disease, a diminished sense of taste or poor fitting dentures, if you have them. Invest in a small light and big mirror, so that you can clearly see how the inside of your mouth looks. Also, in the event that you suffer with any form of arthritis and it's making oral care challenging, ask for help. There are tools to make brushing easier, or it may be wise for you to visit the dentist more frequently for thorough cleanings.

Think Beyond Medicare - Way Beyond!

Unfortunately, Parts A, B and other elements of Medicare leave you high and dry with preventative dental care and basic procedures. While Medicare may cover a dental emergency, everyone is entitled to more comprehensive coverage. It's also important to note that even under emergency circumstances, you may still be left covering some of the costs yourself.

Giving yourself one less thing to worry about as a senior is indeed a reason to smile: Life is already complicated, sometimes painful and seemingly more and more expensive by the day. Find the right coverage for your needs and lifestyle, then don't give it another thought - there's far too much fun to be had.