2022 IS COMING TO a close, and that means another year of insurance benefits is about to expire. If you haven’t taken advantage of your dental insurance yet, that’s okay, but the year is almost over, so the time to use them is now. To help you prepare, we want to give you an idea of how to use your dental insurance at Queens Long Island Dental Care.
Insurance Benefits Typically Don’t Roll Over to Next Year
Each year, your dental insurance company probably gives you a maximum amount of available benefits. Since those benefits don’t typically roll over into the following year, you’ll want to contact us now to get your appointment scheduled!
We all know how it is; the holiday season can get hectic! Life can get really busy and some things fall between the cracks. So remember that your dental health needs your attention too — not just for the sake of your teeth, but for your overall health. If you’re due (or overdue) for an appointment, make sure to talk to our team. Take advantage of those dental insurance benefits before time is up!
Your Insurance Won’t Wait and Neither Will Cavities
While cavities may be inconvenient, it’s imperative that we get them treated immediately. Early treatment of cavities prevents long-term damage to our teeth and is essential to maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile!
Cavities Are a Sign of Tooth Decay
A cavity is a small hole that develops on your tooth when it begins to decay. Harmful bacteria is contained in the plaque that sticks to our teeth. This bacteria produces acid that eats away at our teeth and causes cavities if the plaque is not removed. If left untreated, the cavity can grow larger and cause permanent damage to the tooth.
Letting cavities fester is more common than you think. Approximately 28% of adults are living with untreated cavities. Because cavities are so commonplace, some may think they can leave them untreated, either to save money or spare themselves a filling. It is important to remember, however, that a cavity is considered an infection that requires prompt treatment.
Cavities Will Continue to Grow If Left Untreated
Cavities can only get worse with time. Once that harmful bacteria creates a cavity, it will continue to grow if not repaired with a filling. The enamel is the tooth’s first line of defense against cavity-causing bacteria. If treatment is postponed, the bacteria will eventually get through the enamel and begin to eat through the dentin before finally reaching the pulp.
If cavity-causing bacteria is allowed to reach the dental pulp, it can lead to a condition known as pulpitis, or inflammation of the pulp. If treated quickly, pulpitis can be treated with a simple filling. If left to progress, more serious measures may need to be taken such as a root canal or tooth extraction.
We Can’t Wait to See You!
At Queens Long Island Dental Care, we’re always looking out for our patients and want to make sure you’re taking the fullest advantage of your benefits! If you have any questions regarding dental insurance, stop by or call us today and we can help! Make sure to contact us to schedule an appointment so you can make the most out of your dental insurance before the end of the year. You can also learn more about us on our business page, and don’t forget to check the map before you head our way.