Smile! A Healthy Mouth Supports Overall Vitality
Don’t brush off dental checkups as you age
Good oral health means a lot more than sparkling white teeth and fresh breath. Maintaining health and vitality as we age includes taking care of the mouth. Neglecting dental health can make us susceptible to gum disease, lead to poor nutrition, increase risk for infections and tooth loss and even impact emotional well-being.
One in five adults aged 65 and older have untreated tooth decay, about 68% have gum disease and nearly all have had a cavity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet, many older adults aren't receiving proper oral care.
Many people lose their dental coverage when they retire. Fortunately, affordable options are available.
While Original Medicare doesn't cover routine dental care, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans include everything in Original Medicare and more. Many MA plans include some basic dental coverage, often at no extra cost. Typical coverage may include teeth cleanings, routine X-rays, extractions, fillings and more. Some plans will allow access to any provider one chooses, while others require using providers within a certain network. Some MA plans even provide no-cost transportation to the dentist.
Keep in mind that plans may differ based on a person's location. It's also important to know that plans often have limits on the number of dental care services that are covered in a plan year, maximum cost allowances and other terms. For these reasons and more, take the time to carefully review the details of any MA plan before enrolling.
Consider some of these reasons to maintain your oral health:
- Preventing gum disease. Forgoing recommended routine teeth cleanings can increase the risk for cavities, gum disease, infection and swelling of the gums. This can escalate into problems like tooth loss and the need for root canals or crowns, costing thousands of dollars. If you have a chronic medical condition like diabetes, you are at greater risk for gum disease that can make it difficult to control your blood sugar. Therefore, it’s important to get regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist, to brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and to floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth. An electric toothbrush or water flosser may make brushing and flossing easier.
- Addressing dry mouth. Many older adults take multiple medications. This can result in a condition called “dry mouth,” which can make it hard to chew, swallow or even talk. Dry mouth can also raise the risk of tooth decay and oral infections. A dentist can help you address this with saliva substitutes or lifestyle changes, such as sipping water and reducing or avoiding tobacco, caffeine and alcohol.
- Facilitating good nutrition. Proper nutrition is important for everyone, but particularly for older adults. A healthy mouth makes it easier for you to eat well and enjoy food, while broken down teeth, gum disease or ill-fitting dentures can make it hard to chew. If you’re having difficulty eating for any reason, your dentist may be able to help you.
- Screening for certain cancers. Cancers of the mouth (oral and pharyngeal cancers) are more common in older adults. As with all cancers, early detection is critical to effective treatment. An annual oral cancer examination can help detect early signs.
- Maintaining your confidence. Having healthy teeth boosts confidence and fosters better communication. You may be more likely to go out, stay active and meet and interact with new people when you’re proud of your smile.
Once you're covered by Medicare, explore your dental insurance coverage and schedule a check-up with your dentist as recommended to maintain your overall health. Through regular preventive care, you may be able to avoid more costly and serious procedures later.
It's never too late to get started on a path toward better oral hygiene. Make a pledge to yourself and your long-term health and start today.
To find MA plans offered in your area, visit Medicare.gov. For information on Cigna Healthcare plans, go to CignaMedicareInformation.com.
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