Spirit Dental Resources

Updated on February 11, 2021. If you’ve been diagnosed with dry mouth, you know how uncomfortable this condition can be, so you probably want to get relief right away. But, in addition to making your whole mouth feel better, it’s wise to take steps to combat this problem because it may increase your risk of tooth and gum issues. That’s right: dry mouth might make you more susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease, and infections. And it might even lead to yucky bad breath too! Stumped about what route to take when it comes to treating dry mouth? Continue reading to learn a bit about some of the products and medications that your doctor or dentist might recommend.  First Off: Is Your Dry Mouth a Side Effect of a Medication That You’re Taking? Some people end up with dry mouth as a side effect of a medication that they’re taking.  If you’ve been diagnosed with a health problem, and your doctor has prescribed a medicine that’s causing your mouth to feel dry, let him or her know about this side effect. Your physician might give you a totally different medication to try instead, or you might just need to have the dosage adjusted to get relief. Simple enough! Tackle Dry Mouth with Over-the-Counter Products  You can find several over-the-counter products that might help you get relief when you’re experiencing dry mouth. It’s certainly worth asking your dentist or doctor about these types of products, especially if you want to try treatments that don’t require a prescription.    For instance, mouthwashes like Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse might help provide some much-needed moisture. And there are also saliva substitutes (a.k.a. artificial saliva), such as Biotène Oralbalance Moisturizing Gel, that might temporarily reduce dryness.  Alternatively, Talk to Your Doctor About Prescriptions  When OTC products fail to give you the relief you need, the good news is that there are also prescription treatments, such as oral rinses, that might be better for you. So don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about your dry mouth symptoms, as medications that stimulate the production of saliva might be the optimal choice.   One example is NeutraSal, which may help make talking, eating, and swallowing easier by acting like real saliva. Plus, there are also prescription medications that are designed to help increase the production and flow of saliva in your mouth. Examples include Evoxac and Salagen.  Note: Prescription medications to relieve dry mouth might be the right way to go if you’ve been diagnosed with a condition, such as Sjögren's syndrome, that has caused dry mouth.  There Are a Lot of Options When It Comes to Treating Dry Mouth! You don’t have to live with uncomfortable dry mouth and the unwanted oral health effects that it can cause.  Once you start diving into the treatment options available for this ailment, you’ll realize that there are special gels, mouthwashes, sprays, rinses, and toothpastes that are formulated to help reduce dry mouth symptoms. And, when over-the-counter products aren’t doing enough, rest assured that there are also prescription medications that your doctor might recommend trying.  Your Dentist Can Help You Keep Your Whole Mouth Healthy Remember: when you have dry mouth, working with your dentist is a smart way to maintain the strength of your teeth and gums. Plus, he or she can also guide you toward the best dry mouth treatments available, from artificial salivas to moisturizers.  If you’re worried about being able to afford every important dental appointment, consider signing up for high-quality insurance that can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.  Sources: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-dry-mouth#2 https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dry-mouth-treatments#1 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356052 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/expert-answers/dry-mouth/faq-20058424 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10902-dry-mouth-treatments https://www.fda.gov/ https://www.neutrasal.com/about-neutrasal  

Updated on March 10th, 2021 Do you find it hard to stick to a strict oral hygiene routine at home? Do you often skip brushing your teeth twice a day? Are you reluctant to floss because you don’t enjoy doing it or you’re too busy?  To find the motivation to take better care of your mouth, you might want to consider the fact that there’s a potential link between poor oral health and poor heart health! While this might seem a bit strange, it’s true: if you don’t take the proper steps to keep your teeth and gums clean, you might end up doing harm to your ticker. We break it all down for you below, so keep reading to learn about this fascinating connection between two very different parts of your body.  Do Heart Problems Start in Your Gums? To answer this question, let’s take a look at some of the findings of research that has been conducted in this area: One study found that you might be able to lower your risk of heart problems by brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. Study participants who stated they didn’t brush at least twice a day for at least two minutes showed a higher risk of heart failure, heart attack, or stroke compared to those who brushed the way experts recommend. Researchers have found that gum disease might cause high blood pressure. And oral health problems might also play a role in coronary artery disease.  There might be a connection between poor oral health and heart valve ailments. And people who have gum disease and fewer teeth might be at a greater risk of having a stroke.  Experts believe that, if your oral health is suffering, bacteria in the mouth might get into the bloodstream, increase C-reactive protein and inflammation, adversely impact the blood vessels and heart valves, and boost the risk of cardiovascular problems.   What does this all mean? Well, even though some of the research isn’t definitive, and other factors (such as whether someone smokes or leads an active lifestyle) also play a role in heart health, it appears that the inflammation and bacteria that occur in the mouth because of poor oral hygiene might impact other parts of the body in various ways.  More Research Is Needed to Get More Answers Although some research has shown that there might be a link between poor oral health and poor cardiovascular health, more studies will need to be conducted before experts can be totally sure that these problems are indeed related.  In the meantime, it definitely doesn’t hurt to maintain an oral hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing every day. And seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings is also wise. Not only will your mouth look and feel good, but you might also be taking a step towards keeping other areas of your body, such as your heart, healthy too!  Focus on What You Can Do Right Now If you have questions about how to up your game when it comes to oral hygiene, talking to a dentist could give you the answers you need. Sure, taking the time to shop for the right toothpaste, toothbrush, flosser, and mouthwash is a great place to start, but don’t neglect those important trips to the dentist to let a professional take a look at your teeth and gums. Your dentist can let you know how you’re doing, and can also provide treatments that will tackle problems like gum disease in their earliest stages before they can lead to other issues.  Final tip: consider signing up for affordable dental insurance to reap a host of benefits, like three cleanings per year and coverage for major services. The right plan can help you rest assured that, if you ever need to undergo expensive treatments for your teeth or gums, you won’t need to break the bank to restore the health of your mouth.   Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/heart-disease-prevention/faq-20057986 https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/gum-disease-and-the-connection-to-heart-disease https://www.heart.org/en/news/2018/11/07/bad-tooth-brushing-habits-tied-to-higher-heart-risk https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/heart-disease/how-oral-health-and-heart-disease-are-connected https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11264-oral-health--risk-for-cv-disease https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/healthy-teeth-healthy-heart https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/news/20190927/gum-disease-might-raise-your-blood-pressure  

Patients spent less out-of-pocket and dental spending declined slightly in 2009, the first year-to-year decline since government analysts began tracking the National Health Expenditure Accounts in 1960. Dental spending per capita also declined which is certainly another sign of the recession. The economic recession that officially ended in June 2009 ""profoundly influenced"" health care spending during the year, according to a report prepared by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Office of the Actuary National Health Accounts and described in the journal Health Affairs. Government analysts said a slower rate of growth in consumer out-of-pocket spending for health care compared to 2008 ""was due mainly to declines in out-of-pocket spending for dental services, services provided by nursing care facilities, and physician and clinical services, sectors that account for a relatively large share of out-of-pocket spending.

Updated on February 11, 2021. When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes, including hormonal shifts. But did you know that those changes in hormones might end up affecting your oral health? That’s right: your gums can become more prone to gingivitis and gum disease, so it’s important to take amazing care of your teeth and gums while you’re expecting.  In addition to taking steps to keep your mouth healthy for yourself, there’s another great reason to pay extra attention to your gums when you’re pregnant. Keep reading to learn more about the potential effects that gum disease might have on your baby.  Can Gum Disease Affect Your Unborn Baby? According to experts, you might be at a greater risk of certain oral health issues during your pregnancy, and those problems might then result in complications like giving birth to your baby prematurely.  It’s scary to think that something like gum disease could potentially have an effect on your unborn baby, but some research has shown that there is a possible link between premature birth and this oral health ailment.  How is this possible? Basically, the bacteria that are associated with gum disease, and that cause inflammation, might make their way into your bloodstream. Once that happens, the bacteria might affect the fetus, causing low birth weight or premature birth.  Should You Receive Treatment for Gum Disease While Pregnant? Many pregnant women worry about whether seeing the dentist is safe, but experts generally recommend sticking to your appointments to keep a close eye on your pearly whites because pregnancy might end up affecting your oral health. Plus, the sooner your dentist notices a gum problem, the sooner it can be resolved with treatment, thereby helping to keep your whole body well.  Periodontal treatment may be safe for women who are expecting. So, if you have been diagnosed with gum disease while pregnant, or you had gum disease in the past and you’re worried about it recurring, it’s wise to work with your dentist to ensure you receive the appropriate treatments that can help prevent complications and keep your gums as healthy as possible. Healthy Lifestyle Habits and Trips to the Dentist Are Important! By taking good care of your teeth and gums, you can also take a smart step to help ensure you have a smooth pregnancy. And seeing your dentist is part of the process of keeping your gums free of disease. Just make it a point to let your dentist and dental hygienist know that you’re pregnant, so you can rest assured you’ll get the best and safest treatments available.  In addition to seeing the dentist, don’t forget to maintain a strict at-home oral hygiene routine (brushing, flossing, using a mouthwash) while you’re expecting.  Also, keep in mind that drinking alcohol and smoking can have harmful effects on your unborn baby, while boosting the risk of oral health problems like gum disease as well. It’s yet another reason to lead a healthy lifestyle before, during, and after pregnancy! Dental Insurance Can Help You Get the Care You Need  You have enough to worry about while you’re pregnant, so you shouldn’t need to fret about paying for professional dental care. If you don’t already have dental insurance, consider signing up for a comprehensive plan. The right coverage can help you afford trips to the dentist both before and during your pregnancy, so you’ll never skip a beat when it comes to having your teeth and gums examined and professionally cleaned to prevent issues like gum disease.  Sources: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/pregnancy-gingivitis-tumors#1 https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/dental-health-during-pregnancy.aspx https://www.dentalhealth.org/news/study-highlights-link-between-gum-disease-and-premature-labour     

Oral health is essential and being unable to care for your teeth due to financial constraints can be frustrating. However, is there a meaningful solution to ensure this does not become a lifelong issue? Spirit Dental Network Insurance is an excellent option for dental patients craving high quality dental care at low rates. There are countless reasons for why Spirit Dental is considered an industry leader and a must for patients wanting to find the cheapest rates and best plans. Dental care does not have to be frustrating any longer as long as you have the right plan in place. Defining Network Insurance It is critical to better understand the meaning of 'network insurance' prior to listing benefits associated with it. Why is network insurance valued? The idea behind this concept is to have a network of local dentists, who join under one company (i.e. Spirit Dental) and assure all patients coming through this insurance plan a lower price on all treatments. This saves money and ensures you are able to receive appropriate and immediate treatment by the best dentists in town at affordable rates. It is a true 'win-win' situation and the reason why network insurance is loved. Benefits Of Spirit Dental Plans Let's assume you have decided to sign up and build a customized plan in accordance with your dental needs and wants. What are some of they key benefits, you are going to receive as soon as you sign up? There are a number of excellent benefits associated with these dental plans. Some of these benefits include no waiting periods, three cleanings per year, ability to select your own preferred dentist, guaranteed acceptance, and many more. The benefits are essentially endless as soon as you are signed up and ready to go. There are no hurdles as you are going to be accepted effective immediately. Build Your Own Plan Don't want to get trapped into a plan which does not suit your needs? Perhaps, you are looking for larger 'maximums'? Perhaps, you desire specific benefits on your plan? These are requirements each and every patient will have. You will not have to get stuck with a plan that is not built in accordance with your desires. All plans have numerous 'changeable' parts, which are going to be discussed with to ensure you are signing up for a plan that is picture perfect for your dental needs. The days of being forced into a particular plan are long gone. Spirit Dental is an industry leader in the world of dentistry and is regarded for being an expert in dental care. Why trust resources, which are not going to provide a comprehensive and meaningful solution for all of your dental needs when you can go with the best? Spirit Dental assures all patients of the finest treatment for any dental concerns the patient may have. Receive the best treatment in the area and receive it as soon as you would like under your customized plan. It does not get easier than this.

Missing teeth are nothing to smile about. But with dental implants, you can fill those gaps permanently, brighten your smile and boost your confidence. Unlike dentures or removable bridges which may be loose or uncomfortable, dental implants look better, feel better and give you back your biting power. Corn on the cob, anyone?  The Dental Implant Downside Unfortunately, replacing missing teeth with dental implants isn't always an option. Why? A basic dental implant typically costs $1,250 to $3,000 -- or as much as $60,000 for a full set of implants on both upper and lower jaws. Clearly, dental implants are a major investment.  Because implants are classified as cosmetic dental procedures, they are often excluded by dental insurance. Other dental insurance plans offer some coverage but require waiting periods of up to five years before implant coverage begins. Other insurance plans exclude implant coverage if it’s linked to a pre-existing condition.    All Spirit Dental Plans Cover Tooth Implants With Spirit Dental, you don’t have to worry about exclusions buried in the fine print. Our policy is clear: Every Spirit Dental plan covers tooth implants. With Spirit Dental you also have more flexibility, more preventive care and more annual coverage.  Choose your own dentist No waiting periods Guaranteed acceptance Implants and major services covered 3 cleanings per year $1200, $2500, $3500 annual maximums *Spirit Dental does not cover implants for teeth that are missing prior to dental coverage. More Questions?  Why don’t all dental plans cover implants? Implants first came into practice in the 1990s, and are still considered a cosmetic solution. Because implants are more expensive than bridges or dentures, dental plans often choose the most affordable fix. If you compare dental insurance companies, you’ll find Spirit Dental among the leaders in implant coverage. What is reasonable and customary? The term “reasonable and customary” refers to basic norms regarding procedural costs. While dental procedure costs vary by region, a generally accepted “reasonable and customary” cost helps guide reimbursement. Find out your cost with a simple Spirit Dental 30-second quote. Are there any waiting periods? Many dental insurance policies impose a waiting period on certain procedures. With Spirit Dental, there are no waiting periods. Period.