Are you skipping your dental appointments because you don’t have dental insurance? You’re not alone. A new report from the American Dental Association says that more individuals than ever are going without dental insurance and that means going without critical dental care. One of the age groups going without dental care because of a lack of dental insurance is millennials – and as a result, they have more untreated tooth decay than any other demographic.
Major Mouth Problems for Millennials
A report from the American Dental Association recently revealed that 30 percent of people in the United States between ages 18 and 35 are living with untreated tooth decay. This fact is a startling revelation because for decades individuals over the age of 65 were the most afflicted with dental problems.
The ADA report also showed that over 35 percent of millennials have pain when eating.
As a result of their dental pain, almost 40 percent of those between 18 and 35 report that their quality of life is poor, and their health is negatively affected. Many millennials also revealed that their negative oral health has impacted how they feel about themselves and even their employment; more and more millennials say they avoid relationships and job interviews because of their teeth.
Why Are So Many Millennials Avoiding the Dentist?
The number one reason millennials are avoiding the dentist is that fewer than 30 percent of them visit the dentist regularly. Reasons mentioned in the ADA report for why these individuals are skipping the dentist include a lack of dental insurance and not knowing how to obtain dental insurance.
Individuals with dental insurance cited a lack of understanding about how their dental insurance worked.
What Happens When You Miss Dental Appointments?
Missing your regular six-month dental appointment means that a treatable (and sometimes reversible) conditions such as gingivitis can turn into full-blown periodontal disease. Going a whole year without seeing the dentist means a cavity that needed a filling now may need a root canal – which is costlier and may involve more trips to the dentist.
Are You Skipping the Dentist Because of Fear?
If you’re anxious about visiting our Frisco Dental office because of dental fear or phobia, don’t worry! We understand dental anxiety and fear, and think you will find out warm, relaxing environment complete with massage chair and warm towel treatment after each treatment refreshing and relaxing! Our amazing and caring dental team is here for all of your dental needs and can help you relax and be comfortable during care.
But What If I Don’t Have Dental Insurance?
If you don’t have dental insurance, you don’t have to skip going to the dentist. You can still go to Millennium Smiles. Dr. Korous offers patients an extensive, fairly-priced dental membership option for patients without insurance. This membership option means you can still get peace of mind and the care you need to protect your health.
Also, if you are putting off necessary dental treatment due to financial constraints, please contact our office regarding options for financing your procedure. Dr. Korous and the staff of Millennium Smiles do not want any patient to put off critical dental treatment and live in pain or with a smile they don’t love because of the fear of the costs of dental care.
Find out more about our annual membership plan and financing options by calling Millennium Smiles at 972-987-4899 today.