Simply put, if you don't go to the dentist regularly now, you will later, and it will cost you thousands of dollars more.
Many families end up forking out over $8,000 for dental procedures and repairs in later years.
This is because they couldn't afford regular, twice a year dental check-ups in the early years
of their marriages and families.
I have always known going to the dentist mattered more than whether I had dental coverage
or not. Yet if ever there was a person with a good excuse not go to the dentist regularly, it
was me.
At the age of 8, my dentist was having trouble freezing my mouth. After 45 minutes without
success, he drilled into my cheek.
Later that week, my mother sat me down and told me that this particular dentist had snapped,
killing his ex wife, her boyfriend and himself.
No kidding, I thought at the time. That memory still sends shivers down my back, even nearly
30 years later.
Yet despite this, I have always made myself go to the dentist. That has been particularly true
for the last 12 years as a parent of two girls.
Dental Associations recommend that you have a dental cleaning and check-up every six
months. Without dental coverage, regular dental visits will cost about $100 to $140 a year
for two visits. Brushing is vital, as is flossing. Children are supposed to floss daily.
Earlier on, I waited too long to go to the dentist about two problem teeth. By the time they
were looked at, I was facing a $1,000 bill for root canals if I wanted them saved. There was
no way I could afford that, so I had the teeth pulled.
For that same amount of money, $100 per month, I could have provided my family nine years
of dental coverage.
Dental coverage options today include dental insurance, offered as part of company benefits
packages through employers.
For many, many people though, this is not an available option due to growing unemployment, downsizing, or reduced company benefits.
As a result, people have started looking online to explore their dental benefit options.
The most popular question being asked is what is the difference between Dental Insurance
and Discount Dental Plans.
Dental insurance is utilized by large groups and businesses to cover their employee's dental
care. Monthly premiums are paid for defined coverage. Premiums for dental insurance may be
as much as $30 per month for individuals and over $100 per month for family plans.
Dental insurance is not readily accessible to individuals and families. There are annual spending maximums, deductibles, waiting periods for certain procedures, and limitations and exclusions
on care. Dental coverage will include the cost of preventive services (such as cleanings and
exams) at 100% after deductibles are met.
For millions of North Americans, discount dental plans are an ideal form of dental coverage
when benefits are not available through their work. The plans are designed to provide
consumers access to dental networks at reduced rates.
The big plus is the plans are affordable to join and are the most widely available dental programs
for individuals and families.
The plans work differently than insurance but offer real and substantive cost savings on
dental procedures. Dental coverage includes secured discounts on most dental services, such
as dental exams, routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, dentures, crowns, and
braces.
Most discount dental plans provide a fee schedule with the discounted fees listed out in the
membership materials.
In some cases, dental insurance and discount dental plans can be used together in certain
situations to maximize savings.
For years, my wife and I used dental plans. In recent years, we now both have dental
insurance through our employers.
While the type and level of our dental coverage has varied through the years, we have always made ongoing dental health a priority.
Dental-coveragesite.com is a huge web portal resource for dental plans, dental coverage and dental insurance. Featuring hundreds of pages of resources, reviews, referrals and ideas. One stop source for your dental coverage needs. http://dental-coveragesite.com
Monday, June 8, 2009
Dental Phobia - Putting an End to Dental Phobia (by Dion Kramer)
What is dental phobia?
A fear or anxiety associated with visiting a dentist is often referred to as dental phobia. Dental phobia is often the reason people avoid regular check-ups with a dentist. This naturally has serious consequences for the state of oral health and general well-being for many people.
Neglecting your oral health can have numerous unfavorable effects. One of these could be chronically infected gums which can seriously compromise your ability to chew and digest. You may even lose teeth. Your speech may then be affected. You may also develop consistent bad breath and an unattractive smile. All these things are likely to create social and psychological barriers in your relationships. It is also well documented that poor oral health can have resounding effects on your general health. It is for this reasons and many more that dental phobia must be addressed.
Are you affected by dental phobia?
The questions below will give you some idea as to whether you suffer from dental phobia. It is advisable to continue reading in the event that you answer yes to any of the questions. You should feel encouraged that there are many ways to combat dental phobia and the success rate in managing dental phobia is significantly high.
* Do you recall a previous visit to the dentist that was unpleasant?
* Are you concerned that you will be embarrassed as a result of remarks the dentist will make due to the state of your oral health?
* Do you avoid your appointment with the dentist due to an uneasy feeling prior to your dental visit?
* Do you feel anxious while in the waiting area of the dental practice?
* Do you have feelings of uneasiness or tension whilst in the dental chair?
* Does the sight of dental instruments invoke unpleasant feelings?
* Do you feel ill or anxiety at the thought of an injection?
* Do objects placed in your mouth during the dental visit make you panic and feel like you can not breathe correctly?
* Do you feel that your dentist is unsympathetic only with you?
Why are you affected by dental phobia?
Dental phobia can come about for many different reasons. Below is a list of those reasons described most often by people. You may be familiar with some of these.
* A previously unpleasant visit to a dental practice. This could be for many reasons including careless remarks made to you by a dentist or hygienist that adversely affected your dental experience.
* You have heard concerning stories from friends and family regarding visits to the dentist.
* You have seen or read sensationalized and frightening depictions in the media of dentists.
* You feel a lack of control in the dental chair that makes the situation uncomfortable.
* You feel very self conscious about the poor state of your teeth and as a result are embarrassed to highlight the fact with dental staff.
* You have a negative feeling at the thought of visiting a dentist due to their use of dental gowns, masks, and latex gloves.
How do you put an end to your dental phobia?
1. Dental fear can be overcome.
Understanding that dental phobia can be overcome is a good beginning. You are not destined to suffer from dental phobia for your entire life. The fear you associate with visiting the dentist can be unlearned. Keep in mind when visiting the dentist that you are not simply a set of teeth but a person. A concerted effort to make use of techniques discussed below can put your fear to rest.
2. A suitable dentist.
It is essential to have a dentist and staff that are suitable. Your visit to the dentist can be pleasant with a dentist who is sympathetic towards your dental phobia. Dentists genuinely concerned about your welfare will listen carefully to your needs and proceed accordingly. You should not hesitate to seek out an alternative dentist in the event that this is not the case.
3. Be honest with your dentist.
There are many treatment options that people do not know about. Several of these could assist you greatly. Try to put aside any embarrassment you feel for the current state of your oral health. Your dentist will be able to help you to a greater degree if you communicate openly and honestly about your concerns.
4. Good communication.
Effective communication between you and your dentist can go a long way to making you feel comfortable. You could eliminate the fear of the unknown by communicating to your dentist such pieces of information as lengths of appointments that you can tolerate. Establishing a signaling system to indicate the need for a break or some other message can also give you confidence. Raising a hand while in the dental chair is a commonly used hand signal.
5. Knowledge.
Obtaining knowledge about prospective dental procedures can put to rest any anxiety. Information regarding dental procedures is readily available in brochures in the practice, books and the internet. Any remaining questions can be answered by your dentist. Your dentist is well aware of the seriousness of dental phobia. So do not hesitate to take part in decisions relating to your treatment plan.
6. Relaxation techniques.
Learning to relax when visiting the dentist is imperative. Various physical relaxation techniques can put your mind at ease. It may do you some good to look into books on diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga.
7. Distraction techniques.
Distraction techniques can assist you to make dental visits more tolerable. One common method used for distraction is to listen to music while your dentist works. Some dental practices keep on hand Walkmans or Discmans. Keep in mind not to hinder your communication when making use of distraction techniques.
8. Predictable pain control.
Local anesthetics can be utilized to prevent pain. Some people though require more customized techniques in order to attain proper local anesthesia. It is therefore important that your dentist be made aware of your situation.
Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as 'laughing gas', can relieve pain. Several oral medications can also assist you with dental phobia. Medication such as valium can make you feel considerably relaxed throughout any dental procedure.
A discussion with your dentist could help you to identify a suitable option.
If you are interested in dental phobia then simply consult your dentist for more information.
To read more click on Dental Phobia. And to learn more about NobleDentist simply click on Brisbane Dental
A fear or anxiety associated with visiting a dentist is often referred to as dental phobia. Dental phobia is often the reason people avoid regular check-ups with a dentist. This naturally has serious consequences for the state of oral health and general well-being for many people.
Neglecting your oral health can have numerous unfavorable effects. One of these could be chronically infected gums which can seriously compromise your ability to chew and digest. You may even lose teeth. Your speech may then be affected. You may also develop consistent bad breath and an unattractive smile. All these things are likely to create social and psychological barriers in your relationships. It is also well documented that poor oral health can have resounding effects on your general health. It is for this reasons and many more that dental phobia must be addressed.
Are you affected by dental phobia?
The questions below will give you some idea as to whether you suffer from dental phobia. It is advisable to continue reading in the event that you answer yes to any of the questions. You should feel encouraged that there are many ways to combat dental phobia and the success rate in managing dental phobia is significantly high.
* Do you recall a previous visit to the dentist that was unpleasant?
* Are you concerned that you will be embarrassed as a result of remarks the dentist will make due to the state of your oral health?
* Do you avoid your appointment with the dentist due to an uneasy feeling prior to your dental visit?
* Do you feel anxious while in the waiting area of the dental practice?
* Do you have feelings of uneasiness or tension whilst in the dental chair?
* Does the sight of dental instruments invoke unpleasant feelings?
* Do you feel ill or anxiety at the thought of an injection?
* Do objects placed in your mouth during the dental visit make you panic and feel like you can not breathe correctly?
* Do you feel that your dentist is unsympathetic only with you?
Why are you affected by dental phobia?
Dental phobia can come about for many different reasons. Below is a list of those reasons described most often by people. You may be familiar with some of these.
* A previously unpleasant visit to a dental practice. This could be for many reasons including careless remarks made to you by a dentist or hygienist that adversely affected your dental experience.
* You have heard concerning stories from friends and family regarding visits to the dentist.
* You have seen or read sensationalized and frightening depictions in the media of dentists.
* You feel a lack of control in the dental chair that makes the situation uncomfortable.
* You feel very self conscious about the poor state of your teeth and as a result are embarrassed to highlight the fact with dental staff.
* You have a negative feeling at the thought of visiting a dentist due to their use of dental gowns, masks, and latex gloves.
How do you put an end to your dental phobia?
1. Dental fear can be overcome.
Understanding that dental phobia can be overcome is a good beginning. You are not destined to suffer from dental phobia for your entire life. The fear you associate with visiting the dentist can be unlearned. Keep in mind when visiting the dentist that you are not simply a set of teeth but a person. A concerted effort to make use of techniques discussed below can put your fear to rest.
2. A suitable dentist.
It is essential to have a dentist and staff that are suitable. Your visit to the dentist can be pleasant with a dentist who is sympathetic towards your dental phobia. Dentists genuinely concerned about your welfare will listen carefully to your needs and proceed accordingly. You should not hesitate to seek out an alternative dentist in the event that this is not the case.
3. Be honest with your dentist.
There are many treatment options that people do not know about. Several of these could assist you greatly. Try to put aside any embarrassment you feel for the current state of your oral health. Your dentist will be able to help you to a greater degree if you communicate openly and honestly about your concerns.
4. Good communication.
Effective communication between you and your dentist can go a long way to making you feel comfortable. You could eliminate the fear of the unknown by communicating to your dentist such pieces of information as lengths of appointments that you can tolerate. Establishing a signaling system to indicate the need for a break or some other message can also give you confidence. Raising a hand while in the dental chair is a commonly used hand signal.
5. Knowledge.
Obtaining knowledge about prospective dental procedures can put to rest any anxiety. Information regarding dental procedures is readily available in brochures in the practice, books and the internet. Any remaining questions can be answered by your dentist. Your dentist is well aware of the seriousness of dental phobia. So do not hesitate to take part in decisions relating to your treatment plan.
6. Relaxation techniques.
Learning to relax when visiting the dentist is imperative. Various physical relaxation techniques can put your mind at ease. It may do you some good to look into books on diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga.
7. Distraction techniques.
Distraction techniques can assist you to make dental visits more tolerable. One common method used for distraction is to listen to music while your dentist works. Some dental practices keep on hand Walkmans or Discmans. Keep in mind not to hinder your communication when making use of distraction techniques.
8. Predictable pain control.
Local anesthetics can be utilized to prevent pain. Some people though require more customized techniques in order to attain proper local anesthesia. It is therefore important that your dentist be made aware of your situation.
Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as 'laughing gas', can relieve pain. Several oral medications can also assist you with dental phobia. Medication such as valium can make you feel considerably relaxed throughout any dental procedure.
A discussion with your dentist could help you to identify a suitable option.
If you are interested in dental phobia then simply consult your dentist for more information.
To read more click on Dental Phobia. And to learn more about NobleDentist simply click on Brisbane Dental
Dental Careers Outlook Something to Smile About (by Nourisha Wells)
Americans' obsession with their pearly whites has created a tremendous demand for professionally trained dental assistants and dental hygienists.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the dental assistant profession is expected to grow about 42 percent by 2012. This is good news for the thousands of dentists who rely on certified dental assistants or dental hygienists to help with patient care.
Dental assistants, who train in various dental assisting programs across the nation, are usually the first and last people patients see at the dentist's office. They assist with routine cleanings and dental x-rays, prepare equipment, and perform other tasks requested by the dentist.
"We have come a long way from just scheduling appointments and putting on a patient bib," said Mary Frohn, CDA, CDPMA, EFDA, B.S., a professor in the Massasoit Community College Dental Assistant Program. After eleven years working in a clinical setting, Frohn now trains the next generation of dental auxiliary students to enter the field.
"I get great satisfaction from taking students from not knowing anything about dental assisting on their first day of class, to help make them dental career professionals in less than a year," Frohn said.
Growing trends – including promoting good dental hygiene, increases in cosmetic dentistry, a rising number of employers offering dental insurance and more government-subsidized dental hygiene programs – are all responsible for increasing the demand for dental services and filling seats in her dental assistant program.
Unlike with some jobs that are amiable to on-the-job training, dental assistants should be trained and credentialed to work in the dental assisting profession.
"It’s impossible to learn everything you need to know while you work on the job from eight to five," said Frohn. "From a consumer aspect, training is necessary because we want to know the auxiliary using radiation on us to take our x-rays, or place a dental sealant, is properly credentialed."
There are more benefits to being certified than just gaining consumer trust. According to a 2004 survey published by the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB), certified dental assistants stay in the profession for 14.4 years on average and earn more than dental assistants who lack certification.
"A dental assistant with credentials has negotiating power. The more credentials an assistant has, the greater the power in negotiating a fair and equitable salary," said Betty Finkbeiner in the DANB survey results. Finkbeiner, CDA, RDA, M.S., is chairperson of the Dental Assisting Program at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Certified dental assistants – whether certified by their state board of dental registration, the Dental Assistant National Board, or some other registered dental assistant certifying body – are enjoying the increased demand for their services in a variety of emerging specialized areas. Among them is aesthetic dentistry, which includes bleaching and digital imaging services.
As technology changes the face of dentistry, dental assisting training will become a necessity. Dental assisting schools and dental hygienist programs will continue to provide training to meet the demand for those who want to become a dental assistant. And a promising career is always something to smile about.
For more information about dental assisting schools, visit the Dental Career site.
Nourisha Wells is the College Preparation editor for Search4 Career College News, and site editor for Counselor Companion. She has published articles on preparing high school students for college, finding financial aid, standardized test preparation, teen health and safety issues, parental and teacher involvement in college search and career exploration.
She has also written several articles promoting career colleges and technical schools for adults going back to college, career changers seeking advanced degrees and non-traditional students heading to college for the first time.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the dental assistant profession is expected to grow about 42 percent by 2012. This is good news for the thousands of dentists who rely on certified dental assistants or dental hygienists to help with patient care.
Dental assistants, who train in various dental assisting programs across the nation, are usually the first and last people patients see at the dentist's office. They assist with routine cleanings and dental x-rays, prepare equipment, and perform other tasks requested by the dentist.
"We have come a long way from just scheduling appointments and putting on a patient bib," said Mary Frohn, CDA, CDPMA, EFDA, B.S., a professor in the Massasoit Community College Dental Assistant Program. After eleven years working in a clinical setting, Frohn now trains the next generation of dental auxiliary students to enter the field.
"I get great satisfaction from taking students from not knowing anything about dental assisting on their first day of class, to help make them dental career professionals in less than a year," Frohn said.
Growing trends – including promoting good dental hygiene, increases in cosmetic dentistry, a rising number of employers offering dental insurance and more government-subsidized dental hygiene programs – are all responsible for increasing the demand for dental services and filling seats in her dental assistant program.
Unlike with some jobs that are amiable to on-the-job training, dental assistants should be trained and credentialed to work in the dental assisting profession.
"It’s impossible to learn everything you need to know while you work on the job from eight to five," said Frohn. "From a consumer aspect, training is necessary because we want to know the auxiliary using radiation on us to take our x-rays, or place a dental sealant, is properly credentialed."
There are more benefits to being certified than just gaining consumer trust. According to a 2004 survey published by the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB), certified dental assistants stay in the profession for 14.4 years on average and earn more than dental assistants who lack certification.
"A dental assistant with credentials has negotiating power. The more credentials an assistant has, the greater the power in negotiating a fair and equitable salary," said Betty Finkbeiner in the DANB survey results. Finkbeiner, CDA, RDA, M.S., is chairperson of the Dental Assisting Program at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Certified dental assistants – whether certified by their state board of dental registration, the Dental Assistant National Board, or some other registered dental assistant certifying body – are enjoying the increased demand for their services in a variety of emerging specialized areas. Among them is aesthetic dentistry, which includes bleaching and digital imaging services.
As technology changes the face of dentistry, dental assisting training will become a necessity. Dental assisting schools and dental hygienist programs will continue to provide training to meet the demand for those who want to become a dental assistant. And a promising career is always something to smile about.
For more information about dental assisting schools, visit the Dental Career site.
Nourisha Wells is the College Preparation editor for Search4 Career College News, and site editor for Counselor Companion. She has published articles on preparing high school students for college, finding financial aid, standardized test preparation, teen health and safety issues, parental and teacher involvement in college search and career exploration.
She has also written several articles promoting career colleges and technical schools for adults going back to college, career changers seeking advanced degrees and non-traditional students heading to college for the first time.
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