The American Dental Association recommends that every adult and child be seen by their dentist every six to twelve months to keep their oral health in top-notch condition. However, a study completed in 2022 has shown that upwards of one in three Americans have not been to see their dentist since the start of 2020. Some may have not been seen for 10 years or more! But, did you know that skipping the trip to an annual dental exam can have consequences for your whole body health too? 

Why do people skip the trip to their dentist? 

There are two main reasons that patients may be jumping ship when it comes to attending their regular dental checkups and cleanings; cost and dental anxiety. 

While dental anxiety can be combated by providing a calming atmosphere and the knowledgeable communication from dentists and their whole teams, the costs of dental exams pose a huge hurdle for many patients. 

High inflation rates over the last several years have been harmful to personal finances across America, making people choose between their oral health and financial wellbeing. 

It’s no secret that dental insurance can lack in providing coverage to those who rely on it, or some people may forgo signing up for dental insurance altogether. Fortunately, that’s where medical billing for dental treatments steps in. 

Approximately 50% of American adults ages 18-64 have dental insurance, whereas 92% of the adult population in the United States have some form of medical insurance coverage. Which may be argued as a reason why more patients frequent their annual medical exams but forego their dental exams. 

Dental practices can help to fill in the gap between coverages by implementing medical billing for dentistry. With the help of experts like the Imagn Billing Team, it is possible to start billing medical insurance and get your whole team on the same page to start seeing more patients at their annual exams. 

How important is oral health to the body? 

Over the years, researchers have been able to prove a relationship between oral health and whole body health. Gum disease, for example, is linked to heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and a host of other diseases. 

Gum disease is a silent disease, oftentimes ignored due to the lack of follow up with a dental professional during an annual exam. Despite being common, people often ignore the signs until the bacteria that causes gum disease has a chance to spiral out of control and risks entering the bloodstream which can lead to inflammation throughout the body. 

If a patient doesn’t typically follow regular oral hygiene at home or attend their semi-annual or annual exams and cleanings, they are more likely to ignore any discomfort they are feeling due to poor oral health until it has spiraled out of control and will be more difficult to treat. 

Fortunately, the answer to preventing potential life-threatening decay, inflammation, and bacteria in the mouth is as simple as following a dentist’s recommendations for brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and scheduling an exam and cleaning at least once every year!

What can be done to prevent a decline in oral health? 

Remember, preventing damage before it occurs is the easiest way to keep your health in perfect condition. With the help of a dental care provider and their whole team, it is possible to be proactive in managing whole body health. 

• Brush twice daily with a soft bristled brush! (Bonus points if you use an ADA approved toothbrush!)

• Rinse with mouthwash to help prevent the buildup of excess bacteria and debris. 

• Use an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste.

• Keep your diet healthy by including fresh fruits and veggies!

• Avoid overly sticky, sugary, or acidic food. 

• Visit your dentist regularly! 

• Follow any instructions provided by your dentist or dental hygienist to treat or prevent any oral health issues. 

Maintaining good health starts at the mouth, prioritizing dental treatment is essential to whole body health. 

Are you ready to start encouraging patients to attend their regular dental checkups and cleanings by adopting medical billing for dentistry into your practice today? Schedule a call with our knowledgeable staff or take our free assessment today!