Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy.

Unfortunately, many people do not visit their dentist as often as they should, putting their oral health at risk. Many seniors also face obstacles to receiving dental care, including cost and accessibility. That’s where dental insurance for seniors comes in.

Insurance can help provide peace of mind and allow seniors to receive preventative care, like regular check-ups, cleanings, and any necessary procedures. By removing the financial burden of dental expenses, seniors can focus on what really matters: enjoying their golden years with a healthy and happy smile. 

If you are unsure about when you should schedule an appointment with your dentist, here are five signs that you should visit the dentist. 

If you have tooth or jaw pain

First and foremost, if you have any tooth pain or discomfort, it is essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Several issues, including cavities, gum disease, abscessed teeth, and broken fillings, can cause toothache or sensitivity. It is best to get a professional opinion to treat the issue quickly and efficiently.

If you notice any changes

Another sign that it’s time to see the dentist is if you experience any changes in your teeth or gums. This could include redness, swelling, and other changes in color or texture. Visiting your dentist can help diagnose any problems so they can be addressed early before they cause more damage. 

If you’re experiencing bleeding

If you notice bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth, this is another sign that it is time for a dental checkup. Bleeding gums often signify infection or gum disease, leading to tooth loss and other severe problems if left untreated for too long. 

If you have bad breath

In addition, persistent bad breath can be a symptom of poor dental hygiene or health issues and warrants a visit to the dentist to determine the cause of the problem and how to treat it effectively. 

If you have visible cavities

Visible cavities can come in a variety of forms. They can appear as dark spots or holes on the surface of a tooth, which is often the most obvious sign for most people. However, some cavities may also show as white or brown spots on the teeth. If left untreated, these visible cavities can grow larger and cause pain or sensitivity. 

Bottom line

If you have any of these issues, you should consider dental insurance. It is an essential step toward maintaining good oral health over time. Dental insurance plans can help cover routine cleanings, exams, and emergency procedures if needed. 

Even if you do not experience these symptoms, a good rule of thumb is to visit the dentist at least once a year. Many issues can go unnoticed, and catching things earlier rather than later is much better. Regular visits will ensure that any minor problems don’t become larger ones down the line while also helping maintain overall good oral health throughout life.

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 and 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 includes Aflac, Aflac New York, Continental American Insurance Company, and Tier One Insurance Company.

Aflac coverage is underwritten by the 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   

Senior PR & Corporate Communications contact: Angie Blackmar, 706-392-2097 or ABlackmar2@aflac.com

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Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.