Dental Health Articles

“Is dental insurance worth it?” That’s the question everyone asks. But here’s a better one: “Will you still see your dentist regularly without a plan?”Most people won’t. And that’s where the real value lies. The truth is, dental insurance works like a built-in commitment device. With preventive care covered, most policyholders are far more likely to stay on top of checkups and cleanings. That consistency doesn’t just protect smiles—it’s one of the simplest ways to safeguard your overall health and budget.Skipping routine care can let small issues turn into major (and expensive) problems. But with a plan in place, the barrier to making—and keeping—that appointment is much lower.Because with a dental plan, you get so much more than just coverage for when something goes wrong. At Spirit Dental, we’ve seen the difference consistent care makes. With the right plan, dental insurance becomes:  A wellness catalyst: supporting whole-body health through preventive careA savings strategy: turning a potential $2,000 procedure into a $0 cleaningA financial safeguard: protecting your budget from unexpected dental bills A confidence enhancer: giving you more freedom to smile and live worry-freeDental insurance works for you every day, even when you’re not in the dentist’s chair.The bottom line: it’s not just insurance; it’s an investment in you.It’s the nudge that keeps you on track with preventive care. It’s the safety net that protects your health and your wallet. It’s the quiet confidence of knowing your smile—and your budget—are covered. At Spirit Dental, we believe in dental insurance that does more.More care. More value. More reasons to smile. So if you’re still asking, “Is dental insurance worth it?”—maybe the best question is—“What’s is worth to feel confident, protected and cared for every step of the way?”Get covered. Get care. And smile brighter and live lighter with Spirit Dental insurance plans.

Choosing the right dental insurance plan can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re deciding between a PPO and an HMO. Both options offer important benefits, but they differ when it comes to cost, provider choice and how care is managed.In this article, we’ll break down the key features of PPO and HMO dental plans, compare their pros and cons and help you determine which type of coverage is the best fit for your needs your budget and your smile.Let’s take a closer look at how these plans work.What is an HMO?A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) dental insurance plan is a type of coverage that focuses on affordability and preventive care. With an HMO, you’ll need to choose a primary dentist from a network of approved providers. This dentist becomes your main point of contact for all dental services, and referrals are usually required to see specialists.One of the biggest advantages of an HMO is cost. Premiums are typically lower than other types of plans, and there are often no deductibles or annual maximums. You’ll also benefit from set copayments for common procedures, making out-of-pocket costs more predictable.However, HMO plans are more limited when it comes to provider choice. If you see a dentist outside the network, your care likely won’t be covered — except in emergencies. So if keeping your current dentist is a priority and they’re not in the network, an HMO might not be the right fit.What is a PPO?A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) dental insurance plan offers more flexibility when it comes to choosing your dentist. With a PPO, you can visit any licensed dentist, but you’ll save the most money when you see providers within the plan’s preferred network.Unlike an HMO, a PPO doesn’t require you to select a primary dentist or get referrals to see specialists. This makes it easier to access a wide range of dental services, especially if you have more complex or ongoing dental needs.PPO plans typically have higher monthly premiums and may come with deductibles and annual maximums. However, the trade-off is greater freedom and broader provider access. If keeping your current dentist is important — and they’re not part of a network — PPO coverage may still help pay a portion of the cost.PPO vs. HMOWhen choosing between a PPO and an HMO dental insurance plan, the right option depends on your priorities: cost, flexibility and access to care.HMO plans are generally more budget-friendly. They come with lower monthly premiums, no deductibles and fixed copayments for many procedures PPO plans offer greater flexibility, allowing you to see any dentist you choose. Let’s take a closer look at the differences:  HMO PPO Monthly premiums Lower Higher Dentist choice In-network only In-network or out-of-network Referrals needed Yes (for specialists) No Deductibles Typically none Common Annual maximums Usually no cap Yes, typically applies Best for Cost-conscious, routine care Flexibility, provider preference Bottom line:If you’re mainly focused on cost and don’t mind working within a network, an HMO might meet your needs. But if you value choice and want more freedom in how you manage your dental care, a PPO is likely the better fit.How to choose what’s right for youDeciding between a PPO and an HMO dental plan comes down to your personal needs, budget and preferences. Here are a few key questions to help guide your decision:What’s your budget?If keeping monthly costs low is your top priority an HMO might be the better fit, since it comes with lower premiums and no deductibles.Do you have a preferred dentist?If you want to stick with your current dentist and they’re not in a network, a PPO offers flexibility that may be worth the extra cost.Do you anticipate needing specialist care?If you have ongoing dental issues or expect to need specialist treatment like oral surgery or orthodontics, a PPO gives you easier access without needed referrals.How often do you visit the dentist?If your dental needs are minimal and mostly preventive — like cleanings and checkups — an HMO may provide everything you need at a lower cost.Do you prefer convenience or control?HMOs are simple and structured, making them easy to navigate. PPOs offer more control over your care.Pro tip: Check the provider network for any plan you’re considering. Make sure your preferred dentist or nearby providers are included before you commit.In short, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best plan is the one that aligns with your healthcare needs, financial situation and comfort level with navigating dental care options.Get coverage that works for youNo matter which type of dental insurance you choose, the goal is the same: protecting your oral health while managing your costs. If you’re leaning toward the flexibility and value of a PPO plan, Spirit Dental offers standout benefits designed to work for you and your family.With Spirit’s PPO plans, there’s no waiting period, so you can get the care you need right away. You’ll benefit from a lifetime deductible, a high annual maximum and access to one of the nation’s top networks through the Ameritas PPO Network — with over 127,000 providers and 557,000 access points across the country.Even better? Network dentists have agreed to charge 25-50% less than their regular rates, helping reduce your out-of-pocket costs. You can also see any dentist you choose, in- or out-of-network and family members aren’t required to visit the same provider, giving everyone the freedom to choose what works best for them.Whether you want broad provide access, predictable costs or immediate coverage, Spirit Denta’s PPO plans are built to give you peace of mind — without sacrificing quality or convenience.

Experiencing jaw pain, clicking sounds or difficulty chewing? They may seem minor, but they could be signs of a larger issue with your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. This small but powerful joint plays a big role in your daily life — and when it’s not working properly, it can lead to discomfort, frustration and even chronic pain. We’ll break down what TMJ disorder is, what causes it and how you can find relief.What is TMJ disorder?The TMJ is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skill, located just in front of your ears. This joint allows you to talk, chew, yawn and move your jaw smoothly up and down or side to side. When problems arise with this joint or the surrounding muscles, it’s known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. TMD can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including jaw pain, stiffness, headaches, clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth and even difficulty chewing or fully opening the jaw. While the exact cause of TMD isn’t always clear, factors like jaw injury, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism) or stress-related muscle tension can all contribute. Types of TMDGenerally, TMJ disorders are categorized into three main types:1. Muscular (Myofascial) TMDThis is the most common type and involves pain or discomfort in the muscles that control jaw movement. It often stems from overuse, tension or clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism). People with muscular TMD may experience aching in the jaw, neck or shoulders and may not have any issues with the joint itself. 2. Joint-related (internal derangement) TMDThis type involves a mechanical issue within the joint itself — such as a displaced disc, dislocated jaw or injury to the condyle (the rounded end of the jawbone). It can cause clicking, popping or locking of the jaw and may restrict how far the mouth can open. 3. Arthritic TMDCaused by inflammation or degeneration of the joint, this type is typically seen in people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory joint conditions. It may lead to stiffness, pain and gradual loss of function in the jaw joint.Some individuals may experience a combination of these types, which can make diagnosis more complex. Though TMD affects millions of people, many don’t realize their jaw pain could be part of a larger issue. Signs and symptomsTMD can show up in a variety of ways, and its symptoms often overlap with other conditions — which can make it tricky to identify. While the intensity and frequency of symptoms can vary from person to person, some of the most common signs include:Jaw pain or tenderness: Discomfort in the jaw joint, cheeks or surrounding muscles, especially when chewing or speaking.Clicking, popping or grinding sounds: Noises when opening or closing the mouth, which may or may not be accompanied by pain.Limited jaw movement: Difficulty opening the mouth wide or the feeling that the jaw is “stuck” or “locked.”Facial pain: A dull ache in the face, particularly around the ears or temples.Headaches or earaches: Tension in the jaw can radiate upward, causing frequent headaches or pain that feels like it’s coming from the ear.Changes in bite: A feeling that your teeth don’t fit together the same way they used to.  In some cases, TMD can also lead to neck or shoulder pain, dizziness or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Because symptoms can mimic other dental or medical issues, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.Causes of TMDTMJ disorder can develop from a variety of causes — sometimes from a single factor, but often from a combination of issues affecting the joint, muscles or surrounding tissues. Common causes include:Jaw injury or trauma: A direct blow to the jaw, head or neck can damage the joint or surrounding muscles, leading to long-term dysfunction. Teeth grinding or clenching: This habit, often related to stress or sleep disorders, puts excess pressure on the jaw and can strain the joint over time.Joint wear and tear: Like other joints in the body, the TMJ can suffer from arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation and degeneration.Disc displacement: The cartilage disc within the TMJ can slip out of place, leading to clicking sounds, limited movement and pain.Poor posture: Especially in the neck and upper back, poor posture can affect how the jaw functions and lead to muscle strain.Stress and muscle tension: Chronic stress can cause people to unconsciously tense their jaw or clench their teeth, which may contribute to symptoms.Genetics, bite alignment issues (malocclusion) or connective tissue diseases may also play a role. Identifying the underlying cause is an important step toward effective treatment. How TMD is diagnosedBecause TMD symptoms can overlap with other dental or medical issues, a thorough evaluation is key to an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.Here’s what you can typically expect during the process:Medical and dental history: Your dentist will ask about your symptoms, including when they started, what makes them better or worse and any history of jaw injury, grinding or arthritis.Physical exam: The doctor or dentist will examine your jaw, feel for tenderness or muscle tightness and listen for clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth. They’ll also check your bite and the range of motion in your jaw.Imaging tests: If needed, imaging like X-rays, CT scans or MRIs can provide a closer look at the bones, joint structure and soft tissues of the joint. This can help confirm a diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Your dentist may also refer you to a specialist like an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a TMJ specialist for further evaluation and management.TMD treatmentsTreatment for TMJ disorder depends on the severity and underlying cause of your symptoms. In many cases, it can be managed with conservative, non-invasive therapies — though more advanced cases may require medical or dental intervention.Here are some of the most common treatment approaches:Self-care and lifestyle changesMany mild cases of TMD improve with simple at-home remedies:Applying ice or heat to the jawEating soft foods to reduce strainAvoiding gum chewing or wide yawningPracticing stress-reducing techniques like meditation or jaw relaxation exercisesMedicationsOver-the-counter or prescription medications may help relieve pain and inflammation, including:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)Muscle relaxantsLow-dose antidepressants (for chronic pain or bruxism)Physical therapyJaw exercises, stretches and manual therapy guided by a professional can help improve jaw function, reduce tension and restore normal movement.Oral appliances (splints or night guards)Custom-made dental devices worn over the teeth can help prevent clenching or grinding (bruxism), reduce pressure on the joint and ease muscle strain.InjectionsBotoxⓇ or corticosteroid injections may be used in some cases to relieve muscle tension or inflammation in and around the joint.Surgical optionsWhen conservative treatments don’t provide relief and symptoms are severe or structural, surgical procedures may be considered. These can include arthrocentesis (flushing the joint), arthroscopy or open-joint surgery — though surgery is typically a last resort.How to prevent TMDWhile not all cases of TMJ disorder can be prevented — especially those caused by injury or underlying medical conditions — there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your jaw health. Preventing TMJ issues often involves minimizing strain on the jaw and managing stress effectively.Here are some helpful prevention tips:Avoid clenching or grinding: Be mindful of jaw tension, especially during items of stress. If you grind your teeth at night, consider using a night guard.Maintain good posture: Slouching or craning your neck can affect jaw alignment over time. Support your head and neck properly, especially when working at a desk or using digital devices.Eat jaw-friendly foods: Stick to a balanced diet and avoid excessively chewy, hard or crunchy foods that can overwork the jaw muscles.Practice relaxation techniques: Stress is a common trigger for jaw tension. Activities like yoga, deep breathing and meditation can help reduce muscle tightness.Avoid excess jaw movements: Limit habits like wide yawning, gum chewing, nail biting or biting on pens and pencils.Questions to ask your dentistIf you’re experiencing jaw pain, stiffness or other symptoms of TMD, talking to your dentist is a smart first step. Asking the right questions can help you better understand your condition and feel more confident about your treatment options.Here are some helpful questions to have prepared for your appointment:Could my symptoms be related to TMJ disorder?What tests or exams will you use to diagnose TMD?What type of TMD do I have?What treatment options do you recommend for my case?Can lifestyle changes or home care help relieve my symptoms?Will I need to see a specialist?What can I do to prevent symptoms from returning?If you’re dealing with signs of TMJ disorder, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference. Talk to your dentist to find relief and protect your long-term jaw health.

Taking care of your teeth and eyes isn’t just about looking sharp; it’s a vital part of staying healthy. But without dental and vision insurance, even routine checkups can come with a hefty price tag. The good news? Affordable coverage is out there, and it can help you catch issues early, avoid costly emergencies and support your overall well-being. We’ll walk you through why dental and vision coverage matters, what makes a plan affordable and how to find the right fit for your needs.Why dental and vision coverage matterYour teeth and eyes do more than help you chew and see — they offer a window into your overall health. That’s why dental and vision insurance is so important, even though they’re not often included in standard health plans.Routine dental and eye exams don’t just keep your smile bright and your vision clear — they can also catch early signs of serious health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure and even certain cancers. In fact, you may see your dentist more often than your primary care doctor, making those regular checkups a crucial opportunity to monitor your health. With consistent care, you’re more likely to catch issues early and avoid painful, expensive emergencies down the line. And by supporting your oral and visual health, you're also giving your overall well-being a boost.What makes dental and vision insurance affordable?Affordable dental and vision insurance is more than just low monthly premiums; it’s about getting real value from your plan. One of the best ways to save is by choosing a plan with a strong PPO (Preferred Provider Organizations) network. These policies give you access to a wide range of trusted dentists, optometrists and specialists who have agreed to provide services at reduced rates. That means lower out-of-pocket costs for every visit.Another key to affordability? Coverage that emphasizes preventive care. Many dental and vision plans include routine checkups, cleanings and eye exams at little to no cost. Plus, these regular visits help catch issues early — before they become bigger, more expensive problems. Think of it as an investment: By staying on top of preventive care, you can avoid emergency treatments and long-term health complications, saving you money over time. How to get affordable dental and vision coverageLooking for coverage that fits your needs and budget? Follow these simple steps to find affordable dental and vision insurance:1. Assess your needsStart by thinking about how often you go to the dentist or eye doctor, any ongoing dental or vision concerns and whether you need coverage just for yourself or your whole family. If you wear glasses, need orthodontic work or have a history of dental or vision issues, those are all important factors to consider.2. Compare plan typesDental and vision plans can vary widely. PPOs usually offer more flexibility and access to a wider network of trusted providers — often at lower negotiated rates. Some plans focus on preventive care, while others offer more comprehensive coverage for things like major dental work or specialty lenses. Make sure to check what’s included.3. Look for preventive coverageChoose plans that cover preventive care (cleanings, exams, eye tests) at little or no cost. While seemingly basic, preventive care helps catch and address issues early, saving you money and preventing more costly (and potentially painful) emergencies later on.4. Check provider networksMake sure your preferred dentist and/or eye doctor is in-network, or that the plan offers access to providers in your area. A strong network not only saves you money, it also gives you peace of mind that you’re seeing trusted professionals.5. Compare costsDon’t just look at plans’ monthly premiums. Consider deductibles, copays, coverage limits and out-of-pocket maximums. Sometimes a slightly higher premium means significantly lower costs when you actually use the coverage. 6. Explore your optionsCheck with your employer, professional associations or membership organizations — many offer group dental and vision plans at reduced rates. You can also shop the individual insurance market for plans tailored to your budget and needs.7. Enroll and schedule a checkupOnce you’ve chosen a plan, get enrolled and take advantage of your benefits. Scheduling that first exam or cleaning is a smart step toward better health — and long-term savings.How Spirit Dental and Vision plans help you saveWith Spirit Dental and Vision, getting the care you need — and keeping it affordable — is simple. By bundling dental and vision coverage into one convenient plan, you can streamline your benefits and save money while covering two essential parts of your health.These plans are designed to work hand-in-hand: While regular dental visits help protect your mouth and catch signs of broader health issues, routine vision exams can detect eye problems early and even uncover other conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Together, they offer more complete care — and better long-term health outcomes.Spirit’s vision plans offer access to the EyeMed network, one of the largest and most trusted in the country, giving you big savings on eye exams, glasses, contacts and more. And Spirit Dental plans include features that set them apart:No waiting periods: Coverage kicks in right away, even for major services.High annual maximums: Get more covered each year as your needs grow.Nationwide provider network: Find trusted care near you, wherever you are.Easy online quotes and enrollment: Compare plans and sign up in minutes.Take care of your smile and sight for lessWhether you’re an individual, part of a family, or self-employed, Spirit makes it easy to get comprehensive, affordable coverage that supports your whole health — starting with your smile and your sight.Request a quote today.

A Health Savings Account (HSA) can be a valuable tool for managing dental expenses while maximizing tax savings. Whether you need routine preventive care or a major dental procedure, understanding how to use your HSA effectively can help you reduce out-of-pocket costs. Below we’ll cover everything you need to know about using your HSA for dental care — including what’s covered, how it compares to an FSA and strategies to get the most out of your savings. What is an HSA?A Health Savings Account is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help individuals with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) pay for qualified medical expenses. Funds in an HSA can be used for a variety of healthcare costs, including dental treatments, vision care and prescriptions. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), HSA funds roll over from year to year, making them a valuable long-term savings tool for healthcare expenses.Benefits of an HSATax advantages: Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and any interest or investment growth is tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free.Rollover & flexibility: Unlike FSAs, HSA funds do not expire at the end of the year. This allows account holders to save and invest for future healthcare expenses.Ownership & portability: An HSA belongs to the individual, not the employer, meaning you keep the account even if you change jobs or dental plans.Diverse use cases: Funds can be used for a wide range of medical expenses, including dental procedures like cleanings, fillings, crowns and even orthodontics.Retirement savings boost: After age 65, HSA funds can be withdrawn for any purpose without penalty, though non-medical withdrawals will be subject to regular income tax.This combination of benefits makes HSAs an excellent tool for managing healthcare expenses while maximizing tax savings.What dental care is and isn’t covered with an HSAAn HSA offers a great way to save on out-of-pocket dental expenses, but not all treatments qualify. Understanding what’s covered — and what isn’t — can help you make the most of your HSA funds while avoiding unexpected costs.HSA-eligible dental expensesThe IRS allows HSA funds to be used for qualified medical expenses, which include many essential and preventive dental services, such as:Routine cleanings and exams: Preventive care like checkups, fluoride treatments and x-rays.Fillings and extractions: Necessary restorative procedures to treat cavities or remove damaged teeth.Crowns, bridges and dentures: Restorations that help preserve oral function.Root canals: Treatment for infected or damaged teeth.Periodontal treatments: Gum disease treatments, including scaling and root planing.Orthodontics (in some cases): Braces or aligners may be eligible if deemed medically necessary.Non-eligible dental expensesWhile HSAs cover many essential treatments, certain expenses are not considered medically necessary and therefore aren’t eligible, including:Cosmetic procedures: Teeth whitening, veneers and bonding purely for aesthetics reasons.Elective orthodontics: Braces or aligners for cosmetic improvement without medical necessity.Non-prescription dental products: Over-the-counter toothpaste, mouthwash and whitening strips.If you’re unsure whether a procedure qualifies, check with your HSA provider or consult IRS guidelines to ensure your expense is covered.HSA vs. FSA for dental expensesBoth HSAs and FSAs help cover out-of-pocket dental costs using pre-tax dollars. However, there are key differences between the two that can impact how and when you use your funds.  Feature HSA FSA Eligibility Must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) Offered by employers, no HDHP required Ownership Belongs to the individual and stays with you even if you change jobs Tied to employer; funds may be lost if you leave your job Rollover Funds roll over year to year “Use it or lose it” policy, with limited carryover options Contribution Limits (2024) $4,150 (individual)$8,300 (family) $3,200 per year (set by IRS) Withdrawal Rules Can withdraw funds anytime for qualified expenses Must use within the plan year (some plans offer grace period or limited rollover) Investment Potential Can invest unused funds for long-term growth No investment options available If you have access to both an HSA and an FSA, you may be able to use them strategically — like using your FSA for immediate dental needs and saving HSA funds for future expenses.How to maximize your HSA for dental careYour HSA is more than just a way to cover medical costs — it’s a powerful financial tool that can help you save money on dental care while planning for future expenses. Here’s how to make the most of your HSA for dental treatments.1. Plan ahead for major proceduresIf you anticipate needing costly dental work like crowns, implants or orthodontics, start contributing regularly to your HSA. Since funds roll over each year, you can build up savings over time to cover expensive treatments without financial strain.2. Use your HSA for preventive careRoutine cleanings, exams and early treatment of dental issues can prevent more expensive problems down the road. Since preventive services are HSA-eligible, use your funds to stay on top of checkups and avoid costly procedures later.3. Take advantage of tax-free growthHSA funds can be invested, allowing your savings to grow tax-free over time. If you don’t need immediate dental care, consider letting your balance grow so you’ll have more funds available for future dental or medical expenses.4. Keep records of your expensesWhile you don’t need to submit receipts to your HSA provider, keeping records of your dental expenses is essential in case of an IRS audit. Store invoices and receipts for all HSA-eligible treatments.5. Combine your HSA with dental insuranceHSAs work well alongside dental insurance by covering out-of-pocket costs like copays, deductibles and non-covered treatments. Review your policy to see where your HSA can help fill coverage gaps.Is it a good idea to buy a second dental plan?If your current dental insurance doesn’t fully cover your needs, you might wonder if purchasing a second plan is a smart move. While it can provide additional coverage, it’s important to weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks before making a decision.Pros of a second dental planIncreased coverage: A second plan may help cover costs that your primary plan doesn’t, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.Lower out-of-pocket costs: If both plans coordinate benefits effectively, you might owe less for major procedures.More provider options: Having two plans may give you access to a wider network of dentists.Cons of a second dental planCoordination of benefits can be complex: Insurance companies have specific rules about which plan pays first, and some expenses may not be fully covered.Additional premium costs: Paying for two plans could outweigh the savings if the extra coverage isn’t substantial.Limitations and exclusions: Many plans have waiting periods, annual maximums or restrictions that could reduce the financial benefit of having dual coverage.Before buying a second plan, review your current benefits, estimate your expected dental costs and explore alternative savings strategies to determine if it’s the right financial choice.How else can I save on dental expenses?Even with dental insurance and an HSA, out-of-pocket costs can add up. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce your expenses while still getting the care you need.Take advantage of preventive care: Regular cleanings and exams help catch issues early and prevent costly treatments. Compare prices and negotiate costs: Get quotes from multiple dentists, especially for major procedures, and don’t hesitate to ask about discounts.Use a dental discount plan: Dental discount plans provide reduced rates on services for a membership fee.Look for in-house membership plans: Many dental offices offer their own savings plans on preventive care and other treatments for uninsured patients.Use your HSA wisely: Maximize your HSA contributions and plan ahead for any major procedures to help cover out-of-pocket costs.Saving on dental care doesn’t have to mean skipping treatment. By using your HSA strategically, exploring alternative savings options and taking advantage of preventive care, you can keep your dental costs manageable while maintaining a healthy smile.