Dental Health Articles

We all know how our diet affects our physical health. Carbs and sugars certainly taste great, but too much can lead to issues like weight gain, heart problems, diabetes and more. It’s no surprise then that what we eat and drink can also harm our teeth. Before you rifle around in your pantry, check out which foods to avoid and which to try incorporating into your daily diet.How diet impacts oral healthThe foods and beverages we consume play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our teeth and gums. A diet high in sugary, carbonated and acidic substances can have detrimental effects on oral health, while foods rich in gluten and starch can also contribute to certain issues. Sugary foods and beverages, like candies, gluten-heavy cakes, cookies, and soda, can create a favorable environment for harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria feed on the sugars, producing acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay over time. Keep in mind that there are some foods surprisingly high in sugar, like:Low fat yogurtPasta sauce, barbecue sauce and ketchupFruit juiceProtein and granola barsBreakfast cerealCanned soupsAdditionally, carbonated drinks, especially sugary sodas, are trouble for oral health. Not only do they contain high levels of sugar, but they are also acidic — a combination that increases the risk for enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity. Regular consumption of carbonated drinks can weaken the protective layer of enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay and other oral issues.Other acidic foods, including citrus fruits, tomatoes and vinegary dressings can also contribute to enamel erosion. Acidic substances soften the enamel and make it more vulnerable to cavities. Bread, crackers, pasta and other starchy foods can also indirectly affect oral health. When these foods get trapped between teeth, bacteria forms that contributes to gum disease and decay.Finally, a diet high in sugary, acidic and/or carbonated foods and beverages can result in dry mouth, or xerostomia, a condition where the mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva to keep it adequately moist. Saliva plays an important role in maintaining oral health by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria. Tips for keeping a healthy mouthMaintaining a healthy diet promotes good dental hygiene and overall well-being. Here are some practical tips for integrating a healthier diet into your lifestyle. Incorporate calcium-rich foods: Calcium is essential for strong teeth and bones. Make sure you have plenty of dairy products in your diet like milk, cheese and yogurt — or opt for fortified non-diary alternatives. Leafy greens like kale and spinach, as well as almonds and sesame seeds, are also great sources of calcium.Choose crunchy fruits and veggies: Crisp fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots and celery can help clean teeth naturally by stimulating saliva production and scrubbing away plaque. Their high water content also helps maintain moisture in the mouth, reducing the risk of dry mouth and protecting gums.Stay hydrated with fluoridated water: Fluoride is known for its protective benefits against tooth decay. Drinking fluoridated water helps strengthen enamel and makes it more resistant to acid. Opt for tap water that contains fluoride or consult with your dentist about supplementation if needed.Consider probiotic foods: Probiotics are found in yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other fermented foods, and are proven to keep a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth. This balance is crucial for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.   Having a good diet doesn’t only help your teeth and gums, but also provides a slew of other benefits: better focus, more energy and improved mental health.The dentist has your back when you’re reaching for that snack We’re by no means telling you to eliminate carbonated, sugary or acidic foods altogether. Enjoy your favorite snacks in moderation! And to further protect your teeth and gums, never miss a dental appointment. From exams and cleanings to treating any identified issues, a professional dentist will be able to maintain or restore your teeth so you can eat that cookie, chip or other treat knowing your smile is well cared for.Get an affordable dental quote and start your dental health journey today!

Celiac disease is a condition we’ve heard more about in recent years. As awareness grows, we continue to learn more about the disease and its physical effects.  Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where consuming some form of gluten causes damage to the small intestine. It can be developed at any age, and while it’s estimated that one in every 100 people worldwide have the disease, only 30% are properly diagnosed. One side effect that those with celiac disease may overlook is how the disease affects teeth and gums. Continue reading to learn more about the correlation between celiac disease and oral health.Impact of gluten on oral healthGluten is a protein found in foods that contain wheat, rye and barley — typically breads, pastas, crackers, pastries, cakes and pies. Many people have gluten sensitivity, but those with celiac disease may experience more severe symptoms, like abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and more. The effects gluten has on oral health can also be profound for individuals with celiac disease. It can cause:Enamel defectsTooth discolorationDelayed tooth eruptionIncreased risk of mouth ulcersCavitiesDry mouth If you notice these symptoms, check in with your dentist as well as your primary care provider. Effect of celiac disease on children’s teethChildren with celiac disease may experience some unique effects as well — one of the most prominent being enamel defects. The enamel is the protective outer layer of the teeth, and in celiac disease, the body’s immune response to gluten may cause enamel hypoplasia. This condition causes thinning, pitting or banding of the enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. This can happen in both baby and permanent teeth, creating long-term dental challenges for children.Another impact on children’s teeth is delayed tooth eruption. Proper tooth eruption is essential for maintaining oral health and ensuring proper teeth alignment. In children with untreated celiac disease, tooth eruption can be delayed or disrupted, leading to orthodontic issues later in life.Finally, children with celiac disease may experience an increased risk of developing mouth ulcers or canker sores. These painful sores can appear on the inside of the cheeks, lips or tongue, causing discomfort and difficulty eating. If your child has celiac disease, ensure they follow proper dietary guidelines to prevent these symptoms. If your child has not been diagnosed with celiac but is exhibiting some of the symptoms, make an appointment with their healthcare provider right away to get them tested for the condition.Oral health management with celiac diseaseFortunately, with access to more information related to celiac disease, it’s not as difficult to prevent its negative effects on teeth and gums. First, maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption. Both habits are unhealthy for everyone, but can be even more harmful to those with celiac disease, since they’re linked to problems in the digestive system.Diet is also an important factor for those who have celiac‌ disease. To reduce the disease’s negative effects on oral health, follow a gluten-free diet that eliminates all sources of gluten from your meals and snacks. Opt for naturally gluten-free grains like:RiceQuinoaCornOatsFresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs and dairy products are generally safe choices. There are also packaged foods that use gluten-free alternatives — just be sure to always check nutrition labels. Spirit is your partner in protecting your oral healthAlso key to protecting your oral health is daily brushing and flossing as well as your bi-annual dental appointments. A professional dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing buildup of plaque and identifying any issues that require treatment. If and when problems arise, you don’t want to be held back from getting necessary treatment due to cost. Dental insurance covers regular preventive care in full, and reduces out-of-pocket costs for more extensive procedures like crowns and fillings. Keep your overall health in check with peace of mind — search available dental plans from Spirit Dental in your area.[Find my plan]

Dental insurance can be difficult to understand. With so many costs and elements associated with a plan, it’s hard to know exactly how much you’re paying and whether you’re getting the most value. Annual maximums are an important piece of the dental insurance puzzle, in that they can significantly impact how much you’ll pay out of pocket in a given year. We’re here to help simplify the concept of an annual maximum and help you find affordable dental insurance to suit your healthcare needs. What does annual maximum mean for dental insurance?An annual maximum is the maximum amount of money that your dental insurance plan will pay for covered services within a policy year.Many dental insurance plans offer high annual maximums, especially for preventive services such as routine check-ups, cleanings, and X-rays. By having a plan with a high annual maximum, you can rest assured that the costs associated with preventive care are covered, allowing you to focus on maintaining optimal oral health without worrying about the financial burden.However, high annual maximums in dental insurance plans go beyond covering preventive care. They also play a crucial role in making other necessary dental treatments — like fillings, extractions, root canals and crowns — more affordable. With a dental insurance plan that offers a high annual maximum, you have access to a greater pool of funds for these major services when you need them, alleviating the financial strain without compromising your oral health.It’s important to note that high annual maximums aren’t suitable for everyone. For individuals who require minimal or no dental treatments, a plan with a lower annual maximum might be more cost-effective.  But when you need coverage, having a high annual maximum helps your dental savings stretch further. Average dental insurance costsThe cost of dental insurance per month can vary depending on factors such as the type of plan, location, and whether you have individual or family coverage. On average, the monthly cost for dental insurance ranges from $15 to $50 per person. This cost typically includes coverage for preventive services.One significant advantage of dental plans with high annual maximums is their ability to provide coverage for complex dental treatments. These high-cost treatments may include:Dental implantsOrthodontic proceduresFull-mouth reconstructionsWithout insurance, the expenses associated with these treatments can be daunting. However, dental plans with high annual maximums offer individuals the opportunity to receive the necessary dental care they need while keeping their out-of-pocket costs under control. What to expect when shopping dental insurance for major dental servicesWhen shopping for dental insurance, it is essential to compare different plans to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider factors like the coverage provided for major dental services, the network of dentists available, and the cost of premiums. By carefully assessing and comparing plans, you can identify the one that offers the most comprehensive coverage for the major dental treatments you may require.Another important consideration when shopping for insurance is waiting periods. Some dental insurance policies may have waiting periods before coverage for major services kicks in. Waiting periods can range from a few months to a year, depending on the plan. It is crucial to understand and take into account the waiting period to ensure you have the coverage you need — when you need it.Network savings play a significant role in dental insurance, particularly in relation to your choice of dentist. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer the flexibility to choose any dentist, regardless of whether they’re in-network or out-of-network. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans may have limitations on which dentists you can see. Indemnity plans like Spirit Choice offer a fee-for-service model that provides better out-of-network coverage. Finally, it’s important to consider other crucial factors like co-pays, deductibles and coinsurance:Co-pays are pre-set amounts you’re required to pay to receive a procedure or treatment covered by your insurance provider.Deductibles are the amount you must pay for dental services out of pocket before ‌ insurance coverage kicks in.Coinsurance refers to the percentage of the dental service cost you are responsible for after meeting the deductible. Understanding these out-of-pocket costs is important to gauge the value and affordability of different dental plans.What to do when your dental coverage is maxed outOnce you reach your annual maximum, you’ll be responsible for any additional services incurred within that 12-month period. There are a few ways you can avoid paying hundreds or thousands for the treatments you need after maxing out your coverage.1. Supplemental insurance  Supplementary (or secondary) dental insurance provides additional coverage for patients who have reached the maximum limit of their primary dental insurance. When individuals have exhausted their primary insurance benefits, supplementary dental insurance kicks in to cover eligible dental services, helping to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring continued access to necessary dental care. 2. Dental savings plansA dental savings plan operates as an alternative to traditional dental insurance, offering discounted rates on dental services for patients who have maxed out their primary insurance or do not have dental insurance coverage. When individuals exhaust their primary insurance benefits, they can enroll in a dental savings plan and receive reduced fees for various dental treatments and procedures. This allows patients to access necessary dental care at a more affordable cost, making it a viable option for those who need ongoing or extensive dental services, even after reaching the maximum limit of their primary insurance coverage. 3. Plans with higher annual maximums ​​Enrolling in a dental insurance plan with a higher annual maximum can be a strategic move to avoid paying thousands of dollars for dental services. By opting for a plan with a higher annual maximum, individuals can access a larger pool of funds to cover their dental expenses throughout the policy year. This means that when major dental services are needed, such as complex procedures or treatments, ‌insurance coverage will extend further, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs.Find the best dental insurance plan with a high annual maximum with SpiritSpirit Dental offers flexible plans that suit everyone’s needs. Whether you need coverage now or require extensive work, we’ve got policies with no waiting periods and high annual maximums so you don’t have to sacrifice your health for the sake of saving money.Don’t put it off any longer, discover the best plan for you today.[Find my plan]

Although we’ve talked about the importance of oral health for overall health, many people still neglect caring for their teeth due to fear or anxiety about how much it will cost.Dental insurance mitigates the costs of different treatments and procedures. While there are costs associated with enrolling in an insurance plan (see below), it’s worth it — these are often far less than you would pay for certain services fully out-of-pocket. Learn more about costs associated with dental care and insurance policies. Do I need dental insurance?Like medical insurance, dental insurance covers a variety of oral health care services. From full coverage for preventative care to partial care for more major procedures, dental insurance helps you maintain a healthy mouth without breaking the bank. Dental insurance out of pocket costs to considerThe cost of dental insurance includes more than your monthly premium. Consider the other cost factors:Deductible: The amount you have to pay before insurance kicks in to cover dental services, typically between $50 and $150.Coinsurance: The percentage of costs for dental services you pay after you’ve met your deductible, typically around 20%. Annual maximum: The total amount your policy will pay within a given year, beyond which you are responsible for payment, which on average is between $1,000 and $2,000.How to lower your out-of-pocket costsThere are further ways to reduce the amount you’ll have to pay for dental care. Network savingsNetwork savings plans are different than dental insurance in that they offer discounts on common dental procedures — as long as you go to a dentist within the network. You will still pay a monthly fee to be enrolled, but this amount is less than an insurance premium.Preventative careOf course, the best way to prevent paying thousands in dental care is by not needing the care at all. Accidents and genetics play a part in oral health, but decay and other conditions can be avoided with proper daily oral hygiene. Prevention also includes visiting your dentist twice annually so they can thoroughly clean your mouth and examine teeth and gums.Secondary dental plansIf you are enrolled in an employer-sponsored dental insurance plan, it’s possible to get additional coverage through a secondary, or supplemental, plan. It doesn’t provide double the coverage, but could offer better benefits or lower costs for certain procedures.Cost of dental procedures with and without dental insuranceWondering how much of a difference dental insurance can make? Take a look at the cost comparisons for certain treatments below.Cost of a dental cleaning with and without insuranceA routine dental cleaning ranges from $75 to $200, and deeper cleanings can reach $300. Most dental insurance plans cover one or two routine cleanings per year, in full. Cost of a dental crown with and without insuranceDental crowns are caps placed on the top of broken or decayed teeth to restore their shape and size. According to GoodRx, the price for a dental crown averages between $3,500 and $6,700 per tooth, with a porcelain crown.  Every dental insurance plan differs, but most policies cover up to 50% of the cost for crowns. Check your annual maximum to understand what your out-of-pocket costs will be. Cost of dental implants with and without insuranceDental implants comprise three parts: the body, the crown and the abutment. According to  GoodRx, the price for a dental implant averages between $3,500 and $6,700 per tooth, with a porcelain crownRegarding the cost of a dental implant with dental insurance, you can receive out-of-pocket savings with coinsurance—typically covered under major services, up to 50%—and network savings with an in-network dentist (network dentists offer lower rates with the dentla insurance plan). Cost of orthodontia with and without insuranceOrthodontia refers to treatments and procedures used to fix misaligned teeth and irregularities in the jaw, including braces, braces and mouthguards. Braces can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000 depending on the type of braces you want (metal, ceramic, lingual), where you live, and other factors. Not all dental plans cover orthodontic services, but you may be able to add it as supplemental orthodontic insurance — at a higher monthly premium. How much is covered, again, varies greatly depending on your policy, but it typically falls around 50% of the total. Ask your orthodontist if they accept payment plans or discounts. Compare dental plansEnrolling in dental insurance is well worth the investment. When shopping dental plans, consider who needs to be covered (your family or just yourself), what care you foresee needing, waiting periods with dental insurance and your budget. Check out plans from Spirit Dental & Vision to get the affordable care you need without a waiting period. [Find my plan]

Major dental services like crowns, bridges, and dentures, are expensive. But they’re also of critical importance in restoring and maintaining oral and overall health. When you need to fix your teeth, you don’t want cost to be a barrier to getting proper care. But what if you already have a primary dental plan and are stuck in a waiting period? Finding a no wait secondary plan can give you access to savings immediately.What is a secondary dental plan?A secondary dental plan is an additional insurance policy to a primary plan. For instance, a person may have their own primary plan through their employer, then a secondary plan individually or as a dependent through a spouse. So, which plan pays for what aspects of care when you have dual insurance? Coordination of benefits (COB) is a detailed process used to determine just that. Different insurance providers have different COBs, so it’s important to read through plan details thoroughly to understand how costs are split.       What are waiting periods?Most insurance plans have a required dental waiting period, which is the time between when a patient enrolls in a plan and when it goes into effect. That means there is a period of several months up to a year where the patient has no coverage.Having a secondary insurance policy can help avoid a lack of coverage during this time. How does a no wait dental insurance plan with secondary coverage for major services work?Let’s look at an example scenario for how secondary dental insurance from Spirit Dental works. A patient needs dental implants, but their employer-sponsored plan doesn’t take effect for twelve months. They shop Spirit plans, which offer no waiting periods for immediate coverage. With their secondary plan, they get 25%* off the first year, plus 25-50% lower in-network rates.When the patient’s procedure is complete, Spirit Dental will pay the full submitted claim (likely a partial payment). It’s important to keep in mind that Spirit doesn’t coordinate benefits, giving you the best opportunity for more savings.Is it worth it to have secondary dental insurance?People with dual coverage may be concerned about the cost of having two plans. There are two monthly premiums, deductibles and possible co-pays to consider. But secondary dental insurance provides a number of potential benefits, like:Better coverage for certain treatments or proceduresLower out-of-pocket costs for necessary careWider network of dentists to choose fromUltimate peace of mind knowing you’re covered and have optionsTalk to your dentistAlso key to getting the treatment you and your family need—when and how it works for your schedule and budget—is having an open conversation with your dentist. Putting off the care you need will only make the condition worse and require more extensive and costly care in the future. Being honest with your situation and working together with your provider to create a personalized treatment plan means you get care fast and at a price you’re comfortable with.Shop Spirit no wait dental plansSpirit makes it easy to find a secondary dental plan without a waiting period. If you want to bypass a waiting period with your primary plan or need to cover a more extensive procedure, we’ve got the plan that meets your needs. Browse plans in your area and get coverage for yourself and your family now. [Find my plan]

As parents, ensuring the well-being of our children is a top priority. While we pay attention to their overall health, it’s crucial not to overlook the significance of dental care. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are vital for children’s overall development. Further, problems with teeth and gums can cause a loss of confidence and lower self-esteem.Keep reading to learn the impact of oral health on kids, and how to keep their smiles beautiful and healthy.The importance of dental care for kidsBeyond general dental health, there are various reasons your kids should prioritize their dental health.NutritionDental problems like cavities or misaligned teeth can make it difficult for children to chew their food properly, leading to nutritional deficiencies. And if a child experiences pain or discomfort while eating, oral issues can interfere with swallowing. A healthy set of teeth allows kids to break down and digest food effectively, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients for growth and development.SpeakingIssues with teeth and gums can also impact speech development in children. Problems like tooth decay, missing teeth or a misaligned jaw may affect their ability to articulate sounds correctly, leading to speech impediments. Early detection and treatment of dental issues can help address speech difficulties and ensure proper language development.Emotional impactProblems like tooth discoloration, gaps, or misaligned teeth can make children self-conscious about their appearance. Kids may become hesitant to smile, laugh or engage in social activities due to the fear of being judged or teased. This, along with any discomfort eating or speaking, can take a toll on their overall emotional well-being, leading to feelings of embarrassment, social withdrawal and even anxiety. Prioritizing dental care and addressing any cosmetic dental issues promptly can help children feel more confident in social interactions.Mental healthThe effects of dental issues extend beyond physical discomfort. Ongoing dental problems can cause chronic pain, lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating and poor academic performance. Additionally, children may experience heightened anxiety or stress due to the fear of dental visits or treatments. Regular dental care helps prevent these negative effects and supports children’s mental health.Help your child regain their confidenceHygiene at homeA fundamental aspect of maintaining good dental health is establishing consistent oral hygiene habits. Teach your child the importance of brushing their teeth at least twice a day, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Encourage them to brush for a full two minutes each time and guide them to reach all tooth surfaces, including the back molars. Also emphasize the significance of daily flossing to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth. By instilling these habits early on, you set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.Dental visitsRegular dental check-ups are also vital to monitor your child’s oral health and address any concerns before they worsen. Schedule your child’s first appointment by age one, and subsequent appointments every six months or as otherwise recommended by their dentist. During these visits, the dentist will:Perform a comprehensive examinationThoroughly clean teethApply fluoride or dental sealantRestorative and orthodontic careIf your child requires treatment to correct misaligned teeth or bite issues, consult with an orthodontist to explore the available options. Braces or clear aligners can improve alignment, enhancing your child’s smile and overall health. Additionally, if your child has cavities or damaged teeth, restorative treatments like fillings or dental crowns can restore the function and appearance of their teeth.Responding to dental emergenciesEmergencies occur unexpectedly and require immediate attention. Whether your child experiences a severe toothache, knocks out a tooth, or encounters any other dental trauma, it’s crucial to bring them to a dentist as soon as possible. Quick action can often save a tooth or prevent further complications.The impact of dental health on a child’s self-esteem, physical well-being and mental health cannot be understated. As parents, it’s up to us to shape our children’s dental habits and keep their smiles healthy. Enrolling your family in dental insurance coverage will assist you in getting your kids the care they need to show off their smiles for years to come. View available plans from Spirit Dental.[Get a quote]