Believe it or not, the new year is only a few weeks away, which means your dental benefits are about to be reinstated. You’ll have the comprehensive coverage you need to keep your smile healthy. Although you plan on focusing on your New Year’s resolutions, take the time to visit your dentist for a dental checkup. While you have all year to use your preventive coverage, there are advantages to seeing your dentist early. Here are 5 reasons to start the new year with a cleaning and checkup.
1. Invest in a Healthy Smile
Your toothbrush and floss are important for a healthy smile, but your teeth and gums also need care from a dentist to avoid common dental issues. The American Dental Association recommends you have an appointment at least twice a year to prevent oral health problems, like decay or gum disease. You’ll lessen the need for a costly treatment. On average, every $1 spent on prevention can save as much as $50 on restorative services to save money throughout the year.
2. Reach Your Deductible Early
After reaching your deductible, you’re given an annual allowance to help offset the cost of common treatments. Scheduling an appointment early in the year allows you to pay your deductible to enjoy as much as 80% coverage to keep your smile healthy until hitting your limit.
3. Prevent a Dental Emergency
No one has time in their day for an unplanned trip to the dentist. If you don’t visit your dentist regularly, you’re increasing the risk of a dental emergency. Although you might never expect one to happen to you, 1 in 6 Americans experiences a sudden oral health issue each year. A cleaning and checkup will ensure there isn’t a problem brewing in your mouth that can lead to an emergency later.
4. Benefit from an Oral Cancer Screening
Besides a cleaning and checkup, your routine visits are essential for oral cancer screenings. It’s believed as much as 80% of oral cancer cases can be detected early by dentists. Even if you don’t think you’re at risk, you can benefit from a screening to give you peace of mind throughout the year.
5. Don’t Waste Your Coverage
Life can get busy pretty quickly, which means you might not have the time to visit your dentist over the next few months. Before you know it, it can be the holiday season again, leaving you with dental benefits that are about to expire. On average, less than 3% of Americans meet or exceed their annual limits. You can ensure you make the most of your monthly investment by keeping a dental appointment at the top of your priority list.
Schedule your appointment early to begin 2021 with a healthy, beautiful smile.
About Dr. Jonathan Mears
Dr. Mears earned his dental degree at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. He’s completed advanced training in many specialties, like endodontics. He focuses on prevention to promote optimal oral health. If you need an appointment, contact our office today for a cleaning and checkup.