It’s officially October, and do you know what that means? Halloween is right around the corner! During spooky season, most people enjoy finding amusement in the things that easily frighten them. However, there’s one thing that completely terrifies people year-round – root canals. According to a recent study by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), findings show that more people are afraid of getting a root canal than speaking in public! Luckily, there are many ways you can avoid needing one. Read on to learn about one of the most effective tactics – using your preventive coverage.
Why Is Preventive Dentistry Important?
Everyone knows that brushing and flossing are essential practices for a healthy smile, helping prevent dental problems and other complications from arising. However, taking care of your teeth requires more than that. You must also visit your dentist regularly for preventive dentistry services. They allow your dentist to examine your mouth, jaw, and neck to identify problems that often go unnoticed without professional help.
Preventive dentistry services usually include:
- Bi-annual oral exams (typically every six months)
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Routine X-rays
Does Dental Insurance Cover Preventive Services?
Although every dental insurance plan is unique, most do offer preventive coverage. Depending on your specific plan, the services may be covered 100%. But there are limits on the number of services you can receive each year. For example, you’re usually only allowed two checkups and cleanings (each one every six months) and a certain number of regular X-rays. Make sure you review the details of your dental insurance to understand what’s covered and by how much.
How to Avoid Needing a Root Canal
Are you afraid of getting a root canal? Don’t worry – most people are. Here are some steps you can take to avoid needing one:
- Practice good oral hygiene. You must brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to keep your smile clean and healthy.
- Avoid hard candies. Biting down on one can cause a broken or cracked tooth, allowing bacteria to enter your root system and increasing your chances of needing a root canal.
- Be careful with ice. Chewing on ice can also lead to a fractured, cracked, or broken tooth. If that happens, bacteria have an easy route into the nerve center of your tooth.
- Wear a mouthguard. Make sure you always wear one while playing sports. It’ll help protect against oral injuries like broken teeth, fractured roots, and cut lips.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks. They’re highly acidic and sugary, a combination that can wreak havoc on teeth.
- See your dentist regularly. With regular dental checkups and cleanings, your dentist can treat a cracked tooth early and help you avoid needing a root canal.
As you can see, preventive dentistry is a crucial part of your overall health. By following the tips outlined above, you can avoid needing a root canal and maintain a healthy smile for life!
About the Practice
David, Roberts, Boeller, & Rife Dental is home to four highly reliable, experienced, qualified dental experts who have been helping patients improve and protect their smiles for years. We are passionate about providing exceptional dental care that’s bound to exceed even your highest expectations. If you need help understanding your dental insurance coverage, we’re more than happy to help. Visit our website or call (941) 474-6466 to speak to a member of our team.