Dental care is not included in all health care and is not part of traditional government health insurance programs. Enrolling in one of American Care’s Health Plans provides dental coverage, allowing members to receive the care they need.
Dental Care at American Care
Our Dental Care team follows the guidelines of the American Dental Association. We recommend:
- Seeing a dentist at least once a year
- Brushing your teeth twice a day
- Flossing regularly
- Proper care and maintenance of dentures
- Quit smoking, using tobacco products or other devices
Our dental professionals can also perform routine procedures including:
- Fillings
- Caps
- Extractions
- Root Canals
- Other required treatments
Importance of Dental Care
Dental care is essential from a young age. As we grow older, it remains necessary to our health. A leading reason for emergency room visits is dental emergencies. At American Care, our mission is to reduce the number of emergency room visits with preventative care. Our licensed dental professionals provide the highest quality dental care to our members.
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Complications of Poor Dental Health
Regular dental care prevents tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and delayed detection of oral cancers. Other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and pneumonia can be complicated by poor dental health as gum disease causes chronic inflammation.
Poor dental health and inflammation from gum disease can increase a patient’s risk for heart disease. Patients with heart disease, who develop gum disease, are at higher risk of stroke and worsening current heart conditions.
Diabetic patients experience chronically high blood glucose levels. Elevated blood glucose levels lead to an increase in glucose in the saliva. Bacteria that cause gum disease thrive off elevated glucose levels.
Gum disease is associated with an increased risk of pneumonia for patients who suffer from lung diseases. Excess bacteria from the mouth can travel to the lungs leading to a greater risk of increased infections.
Oral discomfort or inability to properly chew food can increase the risk of choking or inhaling small amounts of food, leading to an increased risk of pneumonia. Discomfort can lead to poor eating habits and avoiding foods necessary for proper nutrition.