Dental Care and Coverage for Seniors is About More than Looks

Dental care is about much more than keeping our teeth white — although that may be a benefit that makes us look younger. Most people don’t realize the impact the health of their teeth has on the rest of their body.

Dental Care Maintains Oral Health

Proper dental care helps maintain oral health, including teeth and gums. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections.

Maintaining good oral hygiene helps seniors retain their natural teeth for as long as possible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are a number of oral health problems that particularly affect older adults. Gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems can lead to tooth loss. Missing teeth affect a senior’s’ ability to chew food properly, leading to nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues. Dental care, including preventive measures and early treatment, can help prevent tooth loss and maintain oral function.

The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for detecting early signs of oral cancer. Dentists perform oral cancer screenings and identify any abnormalities or suspicious lesions in the mouth. This leads to early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

Dental Care Improves Overall Health

Many seniors have chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. These conditions closely link to oral health, and poor oral hygiene can worsen them. Regular dental care and cleanings can help manage these conditions by reducing oral inflammation and maintaining oral health.

Dental issues such as tooth pain, difficulty chewing, and oral discomfort can significantly impact seniors’ quality of life. By addressing and preventing dental problems, seniors enjoy better oral health, improved self-esteem, and a higher quality of life.

Paying for Dental Care Coverage

When it comes to dental care for seniors, there are various options available, including insurance plans. CRISTA Senior Living is a faith-based retirement community located in Seattle, WA that provides a range of senior living services. We provide transportation for dental appointments, and staff can help with finding insurance coverage.

Medicare: Original Medicare, Part A, and Part B, does not typically cover routine dental care, such as cleanings, fillings, or dentures. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may include dental coverage as an added benefit. Review the specific details of Medicare Advantage plans in your area to understand the dental benefits they offer.

Stand Alone Dental Insurance: Seniors can consider stand-alone dental insurance plans offered by various insurance companies. These plans typically cover preventive care, basic procedures, and major procedures (crowns and dentures) to varying degrees. Some popular dental insurance providers in the Seattle area include Delta Dental, UnitedHealthcare Dental, and Guardian.

Dental Discount Plans: Dental discount plans, also known as dental savings plans, are not insurance but provide discounted rates on dental services at participating dentists. Seniors can pay an annual fee to access reduced rates for dental procedures. Some common dental discount plan providers include Aetna Dental Access, Cigna Dental Savings, and DentalPlans.com.

A list of public health dental providers is available at https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dph/health-safety/health-centers-programs-services/dental-clinics-programs

Routine check-ups, cleanings, and necessary treatments are crucial for seniors to maintain good oral health and overall well-being. Seniors need to seek appropriate dental care to address any issues promptly.

CRISTA Senior Living cares about the dental health of its residents. Find out more about CRISTA Senior Living in Shoreline, WA and Crista Shores in Silverdale, WA and sign up for a tour. We’d love to show you around!