Proper dental care is essential for oral health and overall well-being as people age.

Not only does it help protect your teeth from decay, but it can also help prevent tooth loss. In addition, regular dental visits can detect warning signs of severe health issues before they become a significant problem. For seniors, the importance of good dental care cannot be overstated.

Here are five reasons why senior dental care is so critical.

1.  Prevention of tooth loss

Losing teeth can have a dramatic effect on the quality of life for seniors. It can make eating more difficult, cause speech impediments, and even lead to depression or social isolation.

During a regular dental checkup, your dentist can identify and treat areas prone to decay or bone loss, two fundamental causes of tooth loss in seniors, before they become serious problems. Additionally, fillings and bridges can prevent the risk of further tooth loss.

2.  Improved nutrition & overall health

Without enough healthy teeth to chew food properly, seniors may struggle to eat a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals for optimal health. Poor nutrition and other age-related health conditions can affect the overall quality of life, physical strength, and mobility over time.

Regular visits to the dentist for preventive treatment can help maintain strong teeth so seniors get all the nutrients they need from their meals without added discomfort or difficulty chewing food.

3.  Early detection of oral diseases

Cavities are not the only oral diseases that affect older adults; gum disease (periodontal disease) is another common problem among seniors that can quickly worsen if left untreated, eventually leading to tooth loss and other severe medical conditions like stroke and heart attack by causing inflammation throughout the body from bacteria entering into circulation from infected gums or bones around teeth, which are especially vulnerable among older people.

Regular trips to the dentist allow dentists to spot early signs of periodontal disease or other diseases before they become too severe.

4.  Improved self-confidence & quality of life

Missing teeth or visible cavities can make many seniors feel embarrassed about their appearance, making them reluctant to smile or socialize. Regular dental visits can help prevent these issues and give seniors the confidence to enjoy life fully by showing off a healthy, beautiful smile.

It is also possible that an older adult may need dentures for their smile, so understanding the cost is critical. The average cost of dentures Without insurance, these costs can be a major obstacle. However, with insurance, patients can experience a significant reduction in cost. Of course, policies will vary, but many providers offer coverage for dentures, making this essential dental therapy more accessible to those who need it.

5.  Dental issues can lead to other health problems

Older adults who neglect their dental health could be putting themselves at risk for things like infections and even heart disease. This is because as we get older, our immune systems begin to weaken, making it harder for our bodies to fight off infections. Additionally, the bacteria in our mouths can travel to other parts of our bodies, such as our hearts, and cause serious health problems.

Senior dental insurance

Dental insurance for seniors is often less expensive than other forms of healthcare coverage.

However, even with insurance, many older adults can still not afford routine care like cleanings and fillings due to high out-of-pocket costs or lack of coverage altogether. That’s why those with limited income or resources need to look into the best dental insurance for seniors plans that offer reduced copays and lower premiums to save money on treatments they may need, helping them avoid hefty fees down the road if they require major dental work like bridges, implants or dentures.

Bottom line

Regular dental care is essential for seniors who want to maintain good oral and overall health as they age. By recognizing the importance of preventative treatments and finding affordable coverage, older adults can stay healthy and enjoy a higher quality of life for years to come.

Content within this article is provided for general informational purposes and is not provided as tax, legal, health, or financial advice for any person or for any specific situation. Employers, employees, and other individuals should contact their own advisers about their situations. For complete details, including availability and costs of Aflac insurance, please contact your local Aflac agent.??

Aflac Insurance Policies

In Arkansas, Policies A82100RAR–A82400RAR. In Delaware, Policies A82100R–A82400R. In Idaho, Policies A82100RID–A82400RID. In New York, Policies NY82100–NY82400. In Oklahoma, Policies A82100ROK–A82400ROK. In Oregon, Policies A82100ROR–A82400ROR. In Pennsylvania, Policies A82100RPA–A82400RPAR. In Texas, Policies A82100RTX–A82400RTX. In Virginia, Policies A82100RVA–A82400RVA.

Tier One Insurance Policies

In Arkansas, Policy T80000AR. In Delaware, Policy T80000. In Idaho, Policy T80000ID. In Oklahoma, Policy T80000OK. In Oregon, Policy T80000OR. In Pennsylvania, Policy T80000PA. In Texas, Policy T80000TX.

Coverage may not be available in all states, including but not limited to DE, ID, NJ, NM, NY or VA. Benefits/premium rates may vary based on state and plan levels. Optional riders may be available at an additional cost. Policies and riders may also contain a waiting period. Refer to the exact policy and rider forms for benefit details, definitions, limitations and exclusions.

Dental claims are administered by Aflac Benefits Solutions, Inc. Vision claims are administered by EyeMed Vision Care, LLC.  Hearing claims are administered by Nations Hearing.

NOTICE: The coverage offered is not a qualified health plan (QHP) under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and is not required to satisfy essential health benefits mandates of the ACA. The coverage provides limited benefits. Tier One Insurance Company is part of the Aflac family of insurers.

Aflac’s family of insurers include Aflac, Aflac New York, Continental American Insurance Company, and Tier One Insurance Company.

Aflac coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. In New York, coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.

Tier One Coverage is underwritten by Tier One Insurance Company.

Aflac WWHQ | Tier One Insurance Company | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2301167                                                                                                                                                              EXP 10/24