Why Maximizing Your Dental Insurance Benefits Is a Must If You Have an Autoimmune Disease

In a perfect world, your immune system would fight off illnesses without also damaging healthy cells. But if you have an autoimmune disease, then you know that’s not always the case. As tough as it is to live with any of these conditions, they can also negatively impact your teeth and gums. If you want to maintain a healthy smile, you should schedule a dental checkup before 2021 ends. If you have dental insurance, it can even save you money! Read on to learn how.  

How Autoimmune Diseases Affect Your Oral Health

Many autoimmune diseases primarily affect other areas of the body, but symptoms could also manifest in the mouth. For example, Crohn’s disease mainly impacts the intestines, and most people with psoriasis experience skin problems on their face, scalp, knees, and elbows. However, both of these conditions can cause swelling and ulcers in the mouth.

Some autoimmune diseases, like Sjögren’s syndrome, can also cause dry mouth by inhibiting your ability to produce saliva. Without adequate saliva to wash away lingering food debris and bacteria, plaque can build up and contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.

To keep your smile healthy, make sure to see your dentist every six months. That way, they can detect and treat any oral health concerns as soon as possible.

Make the Most of Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Anyone with an autoimmune disease should visit their dentist twice a year, but especially if you have dental insurance. You’re paying monthly premiums that give you a certain amount of coverage on dental care per year. This amount, called an annual maximum, is usually around $1,000. However, fewer than 3% of Americans with PPO dental plans reach their annual maximum. This means that whenever the year ends and benefits reset, most people with dental insurance end up losing money!

Luckily, there’s an easy way to maximize the benefits you’re paying for: attend two checkups and cleanings per year. Most insurance providers will cover these preventive appointments in full. Plus, these visits can prevent oral health issues down the road that could require expensive treatments. You’ll end up saving money in more ways than one!

Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today!

If you haven’t scheduled two dental checkups this year, you could be wasting your insurance benefits. Not to mention, you’ve got to keep an eye on your dental health if you have an autoimmune disease. Call your dentist today and book your next visit – it will benefit your smile as well as your wallet!

About the Practice

Harris Parkway Dental Care offers excellent and passionate dental services for Fort Worth, TX and the surrounding communities. With their expert team of dental hygienists, they provide a wide collection of treatments, from dental checkups to emergency care. If you want to know more about your dental hygienist, visit our website or call us at 817-423-2223.