Question: I’m considering dental insurance; HMOs are the lower-cost option. What is a Dental HMO? How do you benefit from an HMO compared to more costly dental insurance? What does it mean when it says they are a dentist network plan? How do you pick the best dental insurance plan? I am new to shopping for insurance, but since I need to see a dentist and only have health insurance through work, I am unsure what to look for or avoid. 

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Reply: Welcome to DrDental.com! We are glad you are considering dental insurance to care for your dental needs. DrDental.com offers several different dental insurance plan options to meet your requirements. We understand that shopping for dental insurance can be overwhelming, especially if you are new to it. In this post, we will break down your questions on dental insurance healthcare and the DHMO dental network and provide the information you need to make an informed decision. If you have any further questions or need assistance selecting the right dental insurance plan, please get in touch with us at 310-534-3444.

What is a Dental HMO?

A Dental HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plan is a type of dental insurance where you choose a primary care dentist from a network of dentists. You must receive dental care from this primary care dentist for your services to receive the plan benefits. Dental HMOs typically have lower monthly premiums and copays than PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans. PPO plans offer more flexibility in choosing your dentist but generally have higher monthly premiums and deductibles. It’s essential to consider your dental needs and budget when deciding which plan is best for you.

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Dental HMO insurance plans are typically more affordable than PPO dental insurance plans because they have a limited network of dentists and require you to choose a primary care dentist. This limited network of dentists allows the insurance company to negotiate lower rates with the participating dentists, which can help keep the premiums and copays lower for members. In contrast, PPO dental insurance plans offer more flexibility in choosing your dentist and have a more extensive network of providers, but this flexibility often comes at a higher cost.

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In an HMO dental insurance plan, you must select a dentist who is a provider of the plan to receive the benefits.HMO dental insurance plans often earn the name dentist network or network-providing plans due to the requirement of selecting a provider from the network. Under an HMO dental insurance plan, you can access a network of dentists who have agreed to provide services to the plan members at discounted rates. Having the option to select from a network of dentists while keeping dental expenses in check is advantageous for individuals seeking flexibility. By choosing a dentist within the network, you can avoid the hassle of submitting claims and enjoy the convenience of having your dental expenses taken care of by the plan.

Pros and Cons of an HMO Dental Insurance Plan

Consider a Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) when choosing a dental insurance plan. While DHMOs offer a range of benefits, they also have some drawbacks to consider. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the pros and cons of a dental HMO.

Pros:

1. Lower cost: DHMOs usually have lower monthly premiums and copays than other dental insurance plans, making them more affordable for individuals or families on a budget. The cost of an HMO dental insurance plan varies depending on several factors, such as location, the number of individuals in your family, and the level of coverage you need. On average, an HMO dental insurance plan for an individual can cost anywhere from $7 to $25 per month, while a family plan can cost between $15 to $50 per month. However, these costs may vary depending on the specific plan and the insurance provider. It’s essential to shop around and compare plans to find the one that best fits your budget and dental needs.

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2. No deductibles: Unlike other dental insurance plans, such as PPOs, DHMOs do not typically have deductibles, so you don’t have to pay a certain amount out of pocket before the plan starts covering your dental expenses. 

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3. Preventive Care Coverage: Preventative care is essential to maintaining good oral health, and DHMOs (Dental Health Maintenance Organizations) often provide comprehensive coverage for these services. With DHMOs, you can enjoy free or low-cost preventive care services like office visits, routine cleanings, and bitewing X-rays. These services can help you maintain a healthy smile and identify potential dental issues before they become more severe. By catching problems early on, you can save time and money and prevent unnecessary discomfort. With DHMOs, you can rest assured that you can access quality preventive care services that will help you maintain excellent oral health.

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4. No waiting period: One of the most significant advantages of DHMO dental insurance plans is that they typically don’t have a waiting period for coverage to begin. Unlike other dental insurance plans that may require you to wait for a certain period before you can use your benefits, DHMO dental insurance plans allow you to use your benefits immediately. With no waiting periods, you can schedule your dental appointment at the plan’s effective date and receive the necessary dental care without delay. Not having to wait can be particularly beneficial if you need urgent dental care or have been putting off dental treatment due to financial constraints. With a DHMO dental insurance plan, you can immediately get dental care without worrying about waiting periods or delays, allowing you to maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems from becoming more severe and costly.

Cons:

1. Limited provider network: Limited provider network is one of the main drawbacks of a DHMO dental insurance plan. DHMOs require you to select a primary care dentist from a network of providers. You may have to switch to a new provider if your preferred dentist is outside the network. Choosing a new dentist can be a significant inconvenience for some individuals who have established a good relationship with their dentist. Additionally, if you need to see a specialist, you may be limited to the specialists within the provider network. This limited provider network can also be a disadvantage if you travel frequently or live in a rural area with few providers in the network. However, it’s important to note that DHMO dental insurance plans offer some of the most comprehensive coverage for preventive care services, and many of the providers in the network are highly qualified and experienced dental professionals. So, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of a DHMO dental insurance plan and choose the one that best fits your specific dental needs and lifestyle.

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2. No out-of-network coverage: With a dental HMO insurance plan, you will likely have to pay for the services out of pocket if you receive dental care from a provider not in the DHMO network. In most HMOs, you choose a plan dentist as part of the application process. Although you can change to a different plan provider, you must make the change with the insurance company before the change is valid.

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3. Limited coverage for significant procedures: Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are affordable for individuals and families seeking dental coverage. However, it is essential to remember that DHMOs may not cover specific procedures, such as orthodontics or cosmetic surgery, or may provide limited coverage for specialists. This can be a significant drawback for individuals who require specialized dental care. It is essential to carefully review DHMO plans’ coverage options and limitations before enrolling to ensure that the plan meets your specific dental needs. It is also good to consult with a dental professional to determine the appropriate treatment course and discuss your insurance coverage options.

Overall, DHMOs can be an excellent option for affordable dental insurance coverage focusing on preventive care. However, it’s essential to consider the limitations of a DHMO, such as the limited provider network and lack of coverage for major procedures, before making a decision.

Tips on Choosing a Dental HMO Insurance Plan

Choosing the right HMO dental insurance plan can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you select the suitable HMO for your dental care needs:

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1. Know your dental needs: Before choosing an HMO dental insurance plan, it’s essential to understand your dental needs. Such as:

• Consider any ongoing dental issues you have
• Think about the preventive care services you’ll need
• Consider what dental care services you may need for both the long and short term.

By having a good idea of the dental care services that are important to you, you can make an informed decision when selecting a plan that best fits your needs.

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2. Check the network: When selecting a dental plan, one of the most important factors to consider is the network of dentists that the plan works with. This is especially crucial if you are enrolled in a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan, as you will be required to choose a dentist from the plan’s network. 

To ensure that you get the best possible care and treatment:

• Take the time to research the network and make sure it includes dentists in your area.
• If you already have a preferred dentist, check if they are part of the network.
• If not, look for dentists nearby who are in-network and who you would be comfortable visiting.

When choosing a new dental office, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you receive quality dental care. Here are some additional tips to consider:

• Check Reviews and Ratings: One of the best ways to find a reputable dental office is to read reviews and ratings from other patients. Look for reviews on reputable websites, such as Google, Yelp, or Healthgrades, to see what others say about their experiences. Pay attention to feedback on the quality of care, staff friendliness, and wait times.

•  Location and Accessibility: Choose a dental office that is conveniently located and easily accessible, especially if you have mobility issues or rely on public transportation. Consider the office’s hours of operation to ensure they align with your schedule.

•  Expertise and Experience: Research the dentist’s qualifications, training, and experience to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to provide the dental services you need. Check if they are a member of any professional dental associations or have received any specialized training.

•  Technology and Equipment: A good dental office should have modern equipment and technology to provide efficient and effective dental care. Ask about the type of dental technology they use, such as digital X-rays or intraoral cameras, and how it benefits patients.

•  Cost and insurance: Ask about the dental office’s fees and payment options, including whether they accept your dental insurance. Be sure to clarify what services your insurance covers and what out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.

Remember that the network may change over time, so checking the plans provider list is worth checking to ensure your dentist is still in-network. This will help you avoid any surprise out-of-pocket expenses or the need to switch to a new dentist. 

By taking the time to research the dentist network before choosing a plan, you can ensure that you receive quality care from a dentist you trust without breaking the bank.

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3. Compare Costs: One of the most significant advantages of HMO dental insurance plans is that they are typically more affordable than others. However, the cost of an HMO dental insurance plan can vary depending on your location, family size, and level of coverage. Compare the costs of different plans to find the one that fits your budget.

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4. Consider Coverage Limits: HMO dental insurance plans may have limits on coverage for certain services. For example, some plans may only cover a certain number of yearly cleanings or X-rays. Make sure you understand the coverage limits of each plan you’re considering to avoid any surprises.

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5. Read Reviews: Reading reviews from current or past plan members can help you gain valuable insights into the quality of care provided by the plan’s network of dentists. Look for reviews that mention the ease of scheduling appointments, the quality of care, and the overall experience with the plan.

Following these tips, you can select an HMO dental insurance plan that meets your dental care needs and fits your budget.

Dental Discount Plan vs HMO Dental Insurance Plan: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right One

When selecting a dental insurance plan, avoiding confusing a dental discount plan with an HMO dental insurance plan is crucial. While these two types of plans may appear similar, they are fundamentally different.

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As the name suggests, a dental discount plan provides discounts on dental services offered by participating dentists. However, it is not insurance, and there is no guarantee that you will receive the same savings as you would with an HMO dental insurance plan. Like a dental HMO plan, a dental discount plan does have a network of participating dentists. However, you are not required to select a primary care dentist. You can go to any plan provider without being assigned to one.

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On the other hand, an HMO dental insurance plan requires you to select a primary care dentist from a network of providers. This network of dentists has agreed to provide dental services to plan members at discounted rates. By choosing a dentist within the network, you can take advantage of the discounted rates and receive quality dental care at a reduced cost.

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It’s essential to note that dental discount plans do not guarantee coverage, and you may end up paying more out of pocket than you would with an HMO dental insurance plan. Additionally, dental discount plans’ savings can vary from provider to provider. Therefore, it is essential to confirm cost savings for each dental provider.

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When selecting a dental insurance plan, it’s essential to consider your dental needs and budget. While a dental discount plan may seem attractive due to its low cost, it may cost you more in the long run if you need dental services beyond what the discount plan provides.

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In summary, avoid confusing a dental discount plan with an HMO dental insurance plan when searching for a dental insurance plan. A dental HMO plan provides comprehensive coverage and preventive care services at a reduced cost, while a dental discount plan provides discounts on dental services but is not insurance. By understanding the differences between these two types of plans, you can make an informed decision and select the plan that best meets your dental needs and budget.

Protect Your Oral Health with Affordable Dental Insurance Plans from DrDental.com

In conclusion, dental insurance is essential to your oral health and overall well-being. If you are considering dental insurance, it’s necessary to understand the differences between HMO and PPO dental plans and the benefits and drawbacks of each. DrDental.com offers a wide range of dental insurance plans to meet your needs and budget. Our team is committed to helping you find the right plan for your unique situation and guide you through every step of the process. Be sure to start thinking about dental insurance before you have a dental emergency.

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Dental insurance is a significant investment in oral health, and DrDental.com is here to help you find the right plan for your needs. Everyone deserves access to quality dental care, regardless of their budget. That’s why we offer affordable dental insurance plans to help you save money in the long run. 

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If you have any questions about dental insurance or would like a free quote for one of our plans, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 310-534-3444. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can assist you from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. We’re here to help you protect your oral health and make the best decisions for your unique situation. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today to learn more about our dental insurance plans.

Dental care can be expensive, and dental insurance can help alleviate some of the financial burden of dental procedures. However, not all dental insurance plans are created equal, and it is important to compare the benefits and costs of each plan to determine which one is best for you.

One important factor is the waiting periods for significant procedures such as crowns or root canals. If you anticipate needing these types of procedures soon, it may be more cost-effective to choose a plan with shorter waiting periods or no waiting periods at all.

Another factor to consider is whether the plan covers preventative care such as routine cleanings and checkups. These types of services can help prevent more serious dental problems from developing, and a plan that covers preventive care may be more cost-effective in the long run.

In addition to these factors, reviewing each plan’s network of providers is essential to ensure your preferred dentist is included. Some plans offer lower costs for in-network providers, making it more cost-effective to choose a plan that includes your preferred dentist.

Overall, it is important to carefully review each plan’s benefits and costs to select a dental insurance plan that best fits your needs and budget. Dr Dental offers a range of cost-effective dental plans that can help you save money on dental care while still receiving the high-quality care you need.

Dental care can be expensive, especially for complex procedures or treatments. However, there are ways to save money and still receive the quality care you need. One of those ways is by going to a dental school.

Dental schools offer dental treatments at a reduced cost because they teach institutions where students learn and practice their skills under the guidance and supervision of experienced dentists. The students are closely monitored and evaluated to ensure that they provide safe and effective treatment.

By choosing to go to a dental school, you can benefit from the expertise of licensed dental professionals at a fraction of the cost of private dental practices. Students are trained in all aspects of dentistry, from basic cleanings and fillings to more complex procedures such as root canals and dental implants.

It’s important to note that while the cost of treatment may be lower, appointment wait times may be longer as dental schools often have a high volume of patients. Additionally, some procedures may take longer to complete as students take time to learn and perfect their techniques.

If you’re interested in exploring this option, visit the American Dental Association’s website for a list of accredited dental schools in your area. It’s always a good idea to research the school’s reputation and read reviews from previous patients before making an appointment.

Overall, going to a dental school can be a great way to save money on dental care while still receiving quality treatment.

You can’t control some risk factors like age and family history. But you can prevent others, such as smoking, which puts you at greater risk for many diseases, including your oral and dental health. If you smoke, a program to help you quit smoking can lower your risk for those risk factors.  

Tips on Reducing Your Dental Risk Factors

1. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles

3. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks

4. Use mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria

5. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production

6. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings

7. Quit smoking or using tobacco products

8. Wear a mouthguard while playing sports or grinding your teeth at night

9. Consider getting dental sealants to protect your teeth from decay

10. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support overall oral health.

How dental insurance helps to reduce your dental risk factors: Dental insurance can help reduce your dental risk factors in several ways.

• Make regular dental checkups and cleanings more affordable, making you more likely to visit the dentist regularly. Dental checkups can help catch dental problems early before they become more severe and costly.
• Dental insurance plans cover preventive services like fluoride treatments and dental sealants, which can help protect your teeth from decay. Preventative care can help reduce your risk of developing cavities and other dental problems.
• Some dental insurance plans cover additional treatments, such as periodontal therapy and orthodontic treatment. These services can help address existing dental problems and prevent them from worsening.

Dental insurance can help you maintain good oral health by making dental care more accessible and affordable. It can also provide peace of mind knowing that you have coverage in case of a dental emergency or unexpected dental problem.

Your employer may offer multiple dental insurance plans, or you may shop for your own one. Either way, you must choose what fits your dental care needs best. There are many things to think about when making that choice. Will you be able to see your regular dentist? Will it cover the care you need? And how much will it cost?

The cost of the dental insurance plan isn’t the only thing to think about. Your plan may also have deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and other cost-sharing requirements. These are all ways to split dental care costs between you and your insurer. Make sure you understand what your costs will be before you make a choice.

Types of plans differ in how they give you access to care and how they set up costs. Most plans have a network of providers. If you go outside the network, you usually pay more. Different plans use different methods to decide how much you pay for out-of-network care.

Before you choose a plan:

1. Make sure you know what’s covered and what it costs.
2. Ensure the plan’s network includes dentists and dental specialists near your workplace or home. 
3. Check with those dentists to ensure they are still in the plan’s network and accepting new patients.
4. Check each plan’s description online or in booklet form. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask.

If you do not receive dental insurance through work or seek a better coverage plan, contact our member service line at 310-534-3444. Our team of experts will help you understand each plan’s different options and benefits. They will guide you in selecting the best plan to provide your family with the necessary coverage at a price that fits your budget.

What are Dental Veneers? 

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are typically made of porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to the teeth to change their size, shape, color, or length. Dental veneers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. They are a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure because they can dramatically improve a patient’s smile.

Advances in Dental Veneers

Dentists have used porcelain veneers as a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure for several years. To apply a veneer, the dentist has to drill away a portion of the tooth before placing it on top. However, dentists are now able to preserve more of the tooth. 

Currently, thinner porcelain used in modern veneers is just as strong as thicker versions used in the past. Thinner veneers have a few advantages over thicker ones:

1. Getting thin veneers requires less tooth reduction, so more natural tooth structure is preserved. Thinner veneers can significantly benefit patients with thin enamel or weak teeth.
2. Thin veneers look more natural and allow for a better fit, which helps prevent discomfort or sensitivity.
3. Because less tooth structure is removed, getting thin veneers is often less invasive and requires less time in the dentist’s chair.

Since dental veneers fall under cosmetic dentistry procedure services, not all dental insurance plans provide coverage for veneers. If you have dental insurance, you should confirm your plan benefits if you are considering getting dental veneers.

Amalgam fillings are useful in baby teeth. If a child still has their baby teeth but needs a filling, paying the high cost for white filling on teeth that their adult teeth will soon replace may not be the best affordable option. Cost may not be an issue for some people, but if it is, an amalgam filling is a very affordable filling option.

An additional reason why you may want to have amalgam fillings. Amalgam filling can withstand high pressure. They become helpful in filling in molars where the chewing load is higher. Amalgam filling is well tolerated by most people, with only rare occurrences of allergic response. Course amalgam filling is silver in color, which may be okay for back teeth that are not easily seen but might not be what you would want to have towards the front of your mouth.

While amalgam fillings have many advantages, they also have some disadvantages. One of the most significant drawbacks is their appearance. Amalgam fillings are silver in color, which may not be desirable for front teeth that are easily visible. Additionally, some patients may be allergic to the metals in amalgam fillings, although this is rare.

Ultimately, the choice of material for dental fillings is personal and should be made in consultation with your dentist. Your dentist can help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each filling material and choose the one that is best for your specific needs. Remember, all dental services are less expensive when you have dental insurance or a dental discount plan. So keep us in mind for your dental plan needs.

Even though fillings can last many years, they do not last forever. There may come a time when you will need to replace your old fillings. Did you know you can wear down a filling by constant pressure from chewing when eating? Other people may also grind or clench their teeth knowingly or not, which will also cause wear on older fillings.

You can not see the wear down on your fillings, but your dentist can. Usually, a dentist can spot weaknesses in fillings during your regular checkups. People who do not have regular checkups can wear down their fillings and have more significant dental issues. If the seal between the tooth and the filling breaks down, you leave your tooth open to new decay. If left untreated, the decay can progress to the dental pulp and cause infection or abscess. In which case can lead to more extensive dental services such as a root canal.

You can see the importance of regular dental visits. Many times, people do not know this is happening until they start to have tooth pain. Preventive dental care not only saves you from unwanted dental pain but, in the long run, will save you from higher-cost dental services.

Many low-cost dental insurance plans, such as HMO dental insurance plans, offer free office visits, checkups, X-rays, and cleanings. Buying and using dental insurance can save money and help keep a beautiful smile.

What is Acid Reflux, and how does it affect your teeth? Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Acid Reflux can cause a range of symptoms, including heartburn, regurgitation, and nausea. However, many people are unaware that acid reflux can damage their teeth. The acid from the stomach can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and even tooth decay. It’s essential to be aware of this potential complication and take steps to protect your teeth if you suffer from acid reflux.

Acid Reflux Dental Care Tips

If you suffer from acid reflux, taking care of your teeth is vital to avoid potential damage. Here are some dental care tips to help you protect your teeth:

1. Rinse with baking soda: After an acid reflux episode, rinse your mouth with baking soda to neutralize the stomach acid. Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after, as the abrasive action of the toothbrush can damage the weakened enamel.
2. Keep a food diary: Keep track of the foods that trigger your acid reflux symptoms and avoid them as much as possible. A food diary can help reduce the frequency and intensity of your symptoms when you know the foods that bother you and protect your teeth from further damage.
3. Consult with your dentist: Talk to your dentist about your acid reflux and the potential damage it can cause to your teeth. Your dentist can provide personalized advice on protecting your teeth and maintaining good oral health.

Question: I want an inexpensive dental care plan for my six-year-old son. I have little money and only seek something for my son’s dental healthcare.  

Reply:  The lower-cost dental insurance option would be an HMO insurance plan. HMO plans typically run around $8.00 – $20.00 for an individual plan. However, not all HMOs will accept a minor on their single programs; therefore, you must be on the dental insurance plan with your minor son. A couple plan costs around $15.00 – $30.00 monthly. Depending on your budget, including yourself in the plan may still be affordable. 

The Benefits of an HMO Dental Insurance Plan.

• HMO dental insurance plans often have lower monthly premiums compared to other plans. 
• HMOs usually cover preventive care services, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, at little or no cost to you. 
• Another advantage of an HMO plan is that you will have a network of dentists to choose from within the plan, making it easier to find a dentist who accepts your insurance and is located near you. 
• Typically, HMO dental plans do not have a waiting period for services to be covered. 

Question: Right now, I have a toothache, but I will be starting a new job offering dental benefits, which will take a few months to use. I want to find dental insurance on a short-term basis. I have been holding out until my benefits kick in at work, but I don’t think I can. Do you have any dental plans I do not have to keep for a year or more?  

Reply: HMO Dental Insurance plans can be a good option for short-term use because they typically have lower monthly premiums and can provide coverage for basic dental services like cleanings, fillings, and extractions. However, it’s important to note that HMO plans often require you to choose a dentist within their network and may have limitations on the types of procedures and specialists covered. Reviewing the plan details carefully before enrolling is always a good idea to ensure it meets your specific needs.

I have a dental PPO insurance plan and live in NY. I would like to know what the plans UCR fees are before having the dental services rendered because I keep getting hit by additional UCR costs (that I only sometimes have the money for) that I am unaware of when I have the dental service.  

Answer: To budget dental service under a PPO plan and avoid UCR fees or at least know the charges, you must first have your dentist submit a quote-only claim. Suppose your dentist submits a claim as a quote only to your insurance company before starting the dental services. In that case, your insurance company will then be able to provide you with the amount they will pay for the services before you have them done. This way, you will know the dollar amount of what you will be responsible for. Usually, this is done for dental services exceeding $300.00. Talk to your dentist and let them know this is how you like to have things done in the future.

Each tooth in the mouth contains four different tissues, each with another function. Your teeth are made up of two major parts: the crown and the root. The crown of the tooth is what is visible in your mouth. The tooth’s root is the portion normally not visible in your mouth and is anchored within the bone. Within each tooth, the four tissues present are the enamel, the dentin, the pulp, and the cementum.

• Enamel: The tooth enamel makes up the protective outer surface of the tooth’s crown.
• Dentin: Dentin makes up the majority of the inner surface of the tooth. It can’t commonly be seen except on X-rays.
• Pulp: The pulp is the area inside the tooth that holds the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth. It is in the center of the tooth and is in both its crown and root.
• Cementum: Makes up the outer surface of the tooth’s root, and it is much softer than enamel.

Question: I have a fixed income and can not afford a dental PPO insurance plan. Therefore, I am looking into HMO dental insurance plans. However, since I am new to picking a plan provider, can you advise me on choosing a good dentist? 

Answer: When having to choose a dentist in a network-provided plan like a dental HMO, here are a few tips you may want to keep in mind:

1) Call the providers listed and confirm they are still accepting the plan and new members.

2) Confirm anything important to you, but keep it simple. Such as hours of operation, how far booked up they are, and whether they do the type of dental services you are looking for. You may ask if they have a website so you can review detailed information about their practice. However, avoid questions like “How much is it to fix my broken tooth?” After seeing you and examining your tooth, they will know that type of question.

3) Make sure the plan you are reviewing has more than one dental office as a provider in your area(or however far you are willing to travel). You want a dental HMO plan with at least three or more dental offices, so if you want to change dental offices, you can do so.

4) If you want to know more about the dental office in question, try reviewing online review sites such as Yelp or Angie’s list

HMO insurance plans are usually the more affordable and budget-friendly dental insurance option. However, they only really work if there is a dentist in their network you want to go to. So, taking the time to talk to and review the dental providers in the plan network of providers is worth doing. The more you like your dentist, the more likely you will be to maintain your dental health care.

Humans have two sets of teeth (primary and permanent) during our lifetime. Many people referred to them as our baby teeth and adult teeth.

* Primary Dentition: This is our first set of teeth, often called baby teeth. There are 20 teeth in the primary dentition. Even though we do not keep our primary teeth, they play a crucial role in our dental development. So, just like adult teeth, taking care of our primary teeth is very important.  

* Permanent Dentition: This is our second set of teeth, adult teeth. There are 32 teeth in the permanent dentition. Our adult teeth are meant to last our lifetime, and generally speaking, if proper dental habits and care are given, you should have no problems maintaining and keeping your adult teeth.

Whether it’s primary or permanent dentition teeth, good dental care is vital, along with seeing the dentist regularly to maintain good oral health care and a wonderful smile. Having dental insurance will help keep your dental care cost more affordable, helping you make and keep your dental checkups twice a year. 

Question: I have a 13-year-old son who needs some dental care, but I do not have any insurance in force. Since I am not seeking dental care, can I buy only a dental HMO insurance plan for my son?

Answer: That would depend on the plan you are reviewing. Some dental HMO plans will let you buy a plan for a minor only, whereas others will require you to have at least one adult listed as head of household. In that case, you must purchase a couple-plan for you and your minor son. I suggest buying a couple-plan if you also do not have dental insurance. The cost difference between a couple and an individual plan on an HMO is generally not significant, around $10.00 – $15.00 more a month. 

Your dental health care is also essential, and you should see a dentist for at least your preventive care. With most HMO plans, preventive services are free or low-cost to the member. However, if you have any questions about the different dental insurance plan options we provide, please call our member services at 310-534-3444, as we will be happy to help walk you through our plans so that you can pick the right dental plan and coverage for you and or your son.

Sometimes, dentists will use terms we may need to learn or understand when discussing one or more of our teeth. Several terms are used to help define locations on and around the teeth, which are often used to refer to specific areas of the mouth when describing conditions there. Here is a list of some of those terms:    

• Posterior: Towards the back of the mouth.
• Anterior: Towards the front of the mouth
• Mesial: Towards the midline of the mouth.
• Distal: Away from the midline of the mouth
• Buccal: Any area on the cheek side of the teeth
• Lingual: Any area on the tongue side of the teeth
• Facial: Any area on the cheek or lip side of the teeth. Facial is often used interchangeably with buccal but mainly in the anterior portion of the mouth.
• Palatal: Any area on the tongue side of the maxillary teeth
• Occlusal: Any area on the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
• Incisal: Any area on the biting surfaces of the front teeth.

Knowing and understanding these terms can help you when talking to your dentist. However, feel free to ask questions if you do not understand what your dentist is saying. When it comes to your dental care and the services your dentist provides, communication is a crucial factor in ensuring you are receiving the care you need.

The healthcare industry believes that in poor dental health, there is a higher correlation between heart attack, stroke, diabetes, bone loss, and lung disease. 

Researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry found that people with gum disease were twice as likely as others to die from a heart attack and three times as likely to have a stroke. 

Poor dental health causes oral bacteria that have been linked to pregnancy and birth complications with ties between periodontitis, premature birth, and low birth weight.

Good oral healthcare habits at home are essential, but more is needed. It would be best if you saw your dentist regularly. The standard is at least twice a year. You should see your dentist that best fits your dental care needs regardless of how many times a year. For example, people with gum disease may need to see the dentist four times yearly to maintain good dental care. 

42% of Americans state they should see their dentist more often, falling below at least once a year cleaning—part of the reasoning is dental care cost. Yet having dental insurance in place will make dental care more affordable. Most dental insurance plans offer free to low-cost preventive dental care services. Maintaining regular dental visits helps avoid more significant, costly dental care issues. If you do not have dental insurance or are unhappy with what you do have, call our office at 310-534-3444 M-F 8 am-4 pm. We offer several good dental insurance plan options.

A few Interesting facts about Gum Disease

* Gum Disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults? 

* More than 50% of women develop gestational gum disease during pregnancy.

* Having a good oral hygiene routine isn’t always enough to prevent periodontal diseases.

* Gum disease is not age-related. Even young children can have poor periodontal health.

* Gum disease affects about half of the adult population in the United States.

* Heart disease and diabetes have a strong tie to chronic periodontitis.

* Gum Disease Can Be Hereditary

* Chronic Bad Breath Is a Sign of Gum Disease

* Dairy Products can Help Prevent Periodontal Disease

* Having no Cavities Doesn’t Mean you Don’t Have Gum Disease

* Gum Disease is highly preventable and reversible when treated by a dental professional.  

See your dentist regularly to maintain good dental health. Have dental insurance to keep lower costs for your dental care needs. If you do not have dental insurance or are unhappy with what you do have, call our office at 310-534-3444 M-F 8 am-4 pm. We offer several good dental insurance plan options. 

Decrease your risk of Heart Attack by having Professional Dental cleaning. 

There has been enough study and evidence to help prove that having poor dental health (bad teeth and gum) increases your risk of health issues like heart disease. However, the good news is that seeing your dentist regularly for your general cleaning, which most dental insurance plans offer for free, will help keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduce your risk of other health issues.