Question: I am 35, a full-time worker with health and dental insurance; however, my dental insurance does not offer benefits for adult braces. I would not mind getting another dental insurance plan alone, but I want to ensure it has some benefits for adult braces. I also would like Invisalign as they are clear and less in your face, but I am willing to have regular braces if that is all the insurance plan offers. What types of dental insurance plans provide adult braces?

Reply: Welcome to DentalOpinions.com. If you’re considering getting adult braces and looking into dental insurance, it’s essential to pay close attention to the terms and conditions of each plan. While some dental insurance plans cover adult braces, many only provide orthodontic dental services to minors. Fully understanding the coverage of the plan you’re considering is crucial.

It’s worth noting that most dental insurance plans only cover basic metal braces for adults. However, there might be better options than these traditional braces for adults. If you’re interested in clear braces, Invisalign, or other specialty treatments not covered by your insurance, an alternative worth exploring is a dental discount plan.

These plans offer savings on braces for all age groups, giving you the power to choose the best option for your needs. They could save you money, especially if an orthodontic dentist within the plan provides the specific services you’re looking for.

By carefully considering your options and understanding the coverage available, you can make an informed decision that best fits your needs and budget. Feel free to explore alternative solutions like dental discount plans to ensure you get the orthodontic treatment that’s right for you.

Comprehensive Dental Coverage Options at DentalOpinions.com

Are you looking for dental coverage that suits your needs? Look no further! At DentalOpinions.com, we provide a comprehensive range of options, including dental insurance and dental discount plans. Choosing the right dental insurance or dental discount plan can be daunting, considering various factors such as coverage, cost, and benefits. Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through the process and address any queries.

With our dental insurance, you can gain peace of mind knowing that your dental expenses are covered, allowing you to prioritize your oral health without financial worry. On the other hand, our dental discount plans offer discounted rates on a wide array of dental procedures, making quality dental care more accessible and affordable.

When considering your current dental needs, our team is dedicated to assisting you in selecting the most suitable plan. Whether you need routine check-ups, specialized procedures, or emergency care, we have covered you, ensuring you feel cared for and supported in your decision-making process.

Do not hesitate to call our office at 310-534-3444 to speak with our friendly staff and take the first step toward securing your best dental plan. Your oral health is our priority, and we are committed to helping you make an informed decision for a confident smile. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you take the first step towards a confident smile.

Dental Insurance and Discount Plans for Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Dental discount plans can be an excellent way to save money on adult braces while allowing you to choose the type of braces you want. These plans work by offering discounted rates on a wide range of dental procedures, including orthodontic treatments such as adult braces.

With a dental discount plan, you can receive significant savings, generally around 30% or more, on the cost of adult braces compared to paying the total price out of pocket. The savings can make orthodontic treatment much more affordable and accessible, especially if your regular dental insurance does not cover adult braces.

One of the key advantages of dental discount plans is that you can choose the type of braces that best suits your needs. For example, a dental discount plan can help make this advanced treatment more affordable if you prefer Invisalign for its discreet appearance and convenience. Alternatively, if you opt for traditional metal braces, you can still enjoy the cost savings provided by the discount plan.

For instance, let’s say the standard cost of Invisalign treatment is $5,000, but with a dental discount plan, you could receive a 25% discount, bringing the cost down to $3,750. This significant price reduction demonstrates the financial benefits of enrolling in a dental discount plan for adult orthodontic treatment, especially when most dental discount plans run around $10 – $15 monthly.

Ultimately, dental discount plans help you save money on adult braces and empower you to choose the type that aligns with your preferences and needs. This flexibility and cost-effectiveness make dental discount plans attractive for individuals seeking affordable orthodontic care without sacrificing quality or choice.

Dental Insurance and Orthodontic Options for Adult Braces: Exploring HMO Plans and Beyond

A dental HMO insurance plan can be appealing when considering adult braces. Many HMO plans that offer orthodontic services also extend these benefits to adults, not just children. However, it’s essential to note that HMO plans generally only cover basic metal braces and may not include Invisalign or other advanced orthodontic treatments. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully review and verify the coverage of each plan you consider.

One of the critical advantages of HMO plans is their low monthly cost. This affordability can make orthodontic treatment more accessible to individuals seeking to straighten their teeth as adults. Additionally, HMO plans typically do not have waiting periods for major dental care needs, providing you with timely access to necessary treatments.

While HMO plans may have limitations regarding the types of orthodontic treatments covered, their cost-effectiveness and immediate access to care make them a compelling option for many individuals. At DentalOpinions.com, we understand the importance of finding the right dental insurance plan to fit your specific needs.

Don’t hesitate to contact our friendly staff at 310-534-3444 to start your journey toward a confident and healthy smile. Your oral health is our priority, and we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. We look forward to assisting you and helping you find the perfect dental plan for your adult orthodontic treatment.

Understanding Orthodontic Coverage and Insurance PPO Options for Adult Braces

Regarding PPO and Indemnity dental insurance plans and orthodontic services, many plans provide coverage for children up to age 18. However, the plans that provide coverage for adult braces typically base their Usual, Customary, and Reasonable (UCR) rates on the cost of metal braces. As a result, if they cover 50% of the price, it’s up to what is considered fair and reasonable for metal braces. The upside is that if you want Invisalign, there may be some coverage, but only up to the cost of metal braces.

PPO and Indemnity insurance plans for braces may have a lifetime maximum limitation. For example, even if your PPO plan has a $2000 maximum limitation per person per calendar year, there might be a lifetime maximum for orthodontic services. A lifetime maximum means that the plan will only pay up to a certain amount for orthodontic services over your lifetime, regardless of the annual maximum. For instance, if your plan has a $2000 yearly limit but a lifetime maximum of $1000 on orthodontics, the plan will pay $1000.00 for orthodontic services, no matter your annual maximum.

It’s crucial to carefully read the plan’s terms and conditions to confirm the benefits of orthodontic care. If you are considering getting adult braces and are exploring dental insurance options, it’s essential to fully understand the coverage limitations and ensure that the plan meets your needs.

When evaluating dental insurance plans for orthodontic coverage, it’s important to consider the UCR rates, coverage for alternative treatments like Invisalign, and any lifetime maximum limitations that may impact the extent of coverage for orthodontic services.

By thoroughly exploring and understanding the various coverage options available, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your orthodontic needs and helps you achieve the smile you desire.

We hope this information helps you find the right dental insurance or dental discount plan that suits your needs for adult braces. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at 310-534-3444. Your oral health and confident smile are our top priorities, and we look forward to helping you make an informed decision.

What brand of whitening strips work the best? I live in Georgia and I have yellowish teeth that I like to have whiten but can not afford to have a dentist whiten my teeth. I have never tried using whiten strips that you can get in the store and would like to know which brand of whiting strips work the best and any other information you think will be helpful. Thank you

Wanting whiter teeth in New York:  I have yellowish teeth and I really want to have them whiten up.  However the dental insurance plan I have now does not offer teeth whitening treatments and my dentist wants $250.00 to whiten my teeth which is a little to pricey for me.

I would like to know if you offer a dental plan that can help me reduce the cost of whiten treatment.  If not can any one suggest a good teeth whiten product that I can get and do myself?  I just want something affordable and that really works.  No point in spending $50 on a teeth whitening product to save money if  it does not work.

Multiflexdental.com announced today that their dental insurance indemnity plans were now available in 45 states. Indemnity dental insurance is true insurance and not a discount dental plan that is offered by most of the dental web sites on the internet. The Multiflex dental plans offer the insured good dental benefits while not having to close a network dentist. One can choose any dentist they want said Dr. David Blunt, while offering low monthly premium payments.

For more information see: MultiflexDental.com

Some families are considering alternative teeth whitening options instead of buying expensive commercial products. Some studies have suggested one can whiten their teeth buy combining 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1/2 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in a small glass of water while brushing the teeth for 5 minutes with the mixture. Make sure you thoroughly rinse and do not do this more than two times a month.

Why are my teeth sensitive after using a teeth whitener?

You need to use extreme caution when using teeth whiteners. Over exposure to sensitive gums and teeth by the acids in the whitening agents eat into the gums and teeth. Sometimes this process may damage the teeth. The sensitivity is usually temporary, lasting only for a couple of days.

Can teeth whitening be harmful to the teeth and gums?

Teeth whitening can cause damage to the gums and teeth. Many over the counter whitening products and dentists use a hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide base solution to whiten teeth. These acidic chemicals can destroy the gums and enamel of the teeth. A tooth with a crack or cavity is more susceptible to damage and may even require a root canal.

My teeth are translucent blue in color after whitening. Why?

Over bleaching can lead to a permanent translucent blue appearance on the teeth. A cosmetic dentist can help correct this discoloration by applying veneers or a bonding agent to the teeth which can be an expensive dental procedure. Finally, the teeth can become more vulnerable to stains since the chemicals remove a protective layer on the teeth call the pellicle.

I hope this information on teeth whitening has helped you and your family…
Dr. David Blunt

Dental insurance plan help and information – InsuranceCompany.com is a specialist in dental insurance, dental discount plans, vision and prescription coverage programs for individuals, families and groups. We have been serving the dental community since 1983, you will find our licensed dental insurance agents are well informed and ready to assist you.

Compare dental insurance plans and decide which one is right for you and your family. Many of our dental plans have next day benefits including vision and prescription. InsuranceCompany.com offers quotes for individual and family dental insurance plans including an option to compare dental national coverage plans. Remember, buying dental insurance does not have to be a painful process. We offer dental benefit coverage in all 50 states.

Will sealants replace fluoride for cavity protection?

No. Fluorides, such as those used in toothpaste, mouth rinse, and community water supplies also help to prevent decay, but in a different way. Sealants keep germs and food particles out of the grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating. Sealants and fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay.

Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. The process is short and easy. After the tooth is cleaned, a special gel is placed on the chewing surface for a few seconds. The tooth is then washed off and dried. Then, the sealant is painted on the tooth. The dentist or dental hygienist also may shine a light on the tooth to help harden the sealant. It takes about a minute for the sealant to form a protective shield.

Permanent molars are the most likely to benefit from sealants. The first molars usually come into the mouth when a child is about 6 years old. Second molars appear at about age 12. It is best if the sealant is applied soon after the teeth have erupted, before they have a chance to decay.

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from tooth decay. Most tooth decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping germs and food particles out of these grooves.

I need braces  but my dentist says not now

My dentist says that I have to lose all my baby teeth before I can have braces.  They baby teeth I have left are not even lose.  What can I do about this?  I want braces now not when I am in my thirties.  I know you are not supposed to just take out your own baby teeth but the dentist is not leaving me much choice.

So if anyone has any advice please go ahead and answer.  However if you are just going to tell me not to do it and to wait then do not bother cause you are waisting my time.

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This will be a review of Encore dental insurance plan, which is underwritten by Stonebridge Life Insurance Company. Encore dental is a Preferred provider organization (PPO) insurance. First let me address what a PPO is.

Encore Dental Insurance Plan Summary

A PPO plan allows a particular group of patients to receive dental care from a specific panel of dentists. The participating dentist agrees to charge less than usual fees providing savings to you the patient. If the patient chooses to see a dentist who is not designated as a “preferred provider”, that patient may be required to pay a greater share of the fee-for-service.

How the PPO Works

A group of dentists agrees to provide services at a deeply discounted rate, giving you substantial savings — as long as you stay in their network. Unlike the more restrictive Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (DHMO), you can go outside of network and still receive reduced dental benefits. Some typical features of these plans would be an annual dollar cap, deductibles, waiting periods, and claim forms.

About Stonebridge Life Insurance Company

Stonebridge Life insurance company, an AEGON company, is part of one of the world’s largest insurance organizations. Stonebridge offers a tradition of quality and value by striving to provide a high level of customer claims services. For over 40 years Stonebridge has been serving millions of satisfied customers.

Stonebridge Life is currently A+ rated company as of 6/18/2008 (Superior 2nd of 16) for financial strength by A.M. Best Company, which is one of the most respected independent analysts of the insurance industry.

About the Encore Plans

Stonebridge has three Encore plan choices. All three of which let you choose your own dentist or pick one of their dental plan providers. Depending on which plan you select an annual maximum benefit or waiting period may apply.

I will post an additional review of this plan shortly. In the meantime find the dental plan that is right for you at InsuranceCompany.com

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The Best Ways to Whiten Your Smile

Teeth whitening has become all the rage nowadays, have a nice smile is important and having a whiter smile because you took some extra steps is always a plus to those you’re trying to impress. Brushing your teeth with a whitening toothpaste is the most basic step to achieving a dazzling smile, if you want to try a more elaborate method there are a few that will cater to your request.

First you’ll need to look at your daily intake of dark liquids, coffee, tea; soft drinks and smoking can discolor your teeth. If you want to whiten your teeth back to their original brightness then you’ll have to limit your vices.

One way to make sure that your teeth are not exposed to any of the afore mentioned stain bandits is to drink your favorite coffee, tea or soft drink through a straw, this allows the liquid to bypass your teeth. This might be something you’ll want to do after you begin whitening your teeth so you can keep the brightness at a maximum.

If you want to spend a little more money on teeth whitening procedures that are faster then there are a few options available. There are home kits that contain whitening strips; it seems each company that toothpaste on the market has an addendum to their product.

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Some boast that they can whiten your teeth at least three to four shades brighter, the main ingredient is baking soda and peroxide; if those are listed on the box then you’ll probably get what you pay for. Some whitening strips do cause teeth sensitivity, I used some and it was too much for me, I’ve opted to stay with the whitening toothpaste.

If you have children, you may prefer a plan that allows a pediatric dentist to be your child’s primary care dentist. Since specialized treatment is generally more costly than routine care, some plans discourage the use of specialists. While many general practitioners are qualified to perform some specialized services, complex procedures often require the skills of a dentist with special training. Discuss the options with your dentist before deciding who is best qualified to deliver treatment.

See BabyDental.com as they seem to specialize in finding pediatric dental care.

Preferred Provider Organizations

Another true insurance plan, a Preferred provider organizations ( PPO) falls somewhere between an indemnity plan and a dental HMO. This plan allows a particular group of patients to receive dental care from a defined panel of dentists. The participating dentist agrees to charge less than usual fees to this specific patient base, providing savings for the plan purchaser.

If the patient chooses to see a dentist who is not designated as a “preferred provider,” that patient may be required to pay a greater share of the fee-for-service.  A group of dentists agrees to provide services at a deeply discounted rate, giving you substantial savings — as long as you stay in their network. Unlike the more restrictive DHMO, though, you can go out of network and still receive some benefits. Some typical features of these plans:

• Monthly premiums

• Annual dollar cap

• You must stay within the approved network of dentists or pay higher deductibles and co-payments

• Your average monthly cost: $25+

• Companies selling these plans are regulated by state insurance departments.

Here is the problem with buying products on line. People tend to only read part of what the offer is. I went to their web site. All you have to do is click on the terms and conditions link to review how you need to cancel the product with in 10 days of ordering your free trail. If you do not you will be charged for the product. This is not a scam what is it is a lack of reading. If you are going to buy products on line you have to have some responsibility to know what it is that you are buying. I truly hope that this will show people that you need to read all the information that is provided to you regardless  of what it is you are buying.

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[starrating template_id=4 hide_empty=0]I like Listerine. However,  make sure you are not using to much fluoride. Whit fluoride in tooth paste and many other products,  you want to be careful of not having to much fluoride.  Fluoride is toxic and can harm you if you take in to much of  it.  If you are unsure of this speak to your dentist they can advise you of what they feel would be good products to use with out having to much fluoride.

Well it does seem that we may care about whiten our teeth to the point of over kill. Just brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste use the kind that has whiting in it if you like.

Unless you are going to make a life stile change it is not worth spending money getting them white by buying expensive products or beaching at the dentist. Whiting you teeth does not keep them white you need to stop doing all the things that stain them in the first place.

Stop drinking any thing that can stain your teeth coffee, tea, soda etc. Also you would need to brush right after eating and no smoking. If you don’t change what you are doing to stain them in the first place, it would be like dieing you hair every time your roots grow in.

And whiting your teeth that much will in the long term do more damage.

It will normally take about a day or two to get better. Your mouth heals faster then a cut on your body does. Just use mouth wash to kill germs. This may sting a little but it will help it heal faster.

Try using floss.  Floss is designed to remove food particles that are caught between our teeth that a toothbrush was unable to remove.  This should also work with your problem. You may want to try quiting the fingernail biting  to avoid this from happening again.