Kick Off 2024 With a Preventive Exam
Posted on January 25, 2024 in Dental Health
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As we start a new year, it’s a great time to think about your resolutions for healthier living. One way to kick things off right is to schedule annual preventive appointments using your dental and vision insurance benefits.
What is preventive care?
Preventive care is when you visit a health care professional, such as the dentist or eye doctor, to be screened for developing concerns. Sometimes, preventive exams can catch issues before they become harder to treat. Catching health issues early could save you from more significant discomfort and the cost of a more expensive treatment option later.
Preventive habits, like daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and wearing sunglasses, are things you can do at home as ways to prevent future health issues.
Preventive care at the dentist
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive appointments once every six months. These appointments usually include teeth cleaning by a dental hygienist and an exam by a dentist. During the screening, the dentist may also review x-rays to see if any concerns are developing inside your teeth.
During the exam, the dentist will look for:
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Gum disease like gingivitis
- Signs of oral cancer
Preventive care at the eye doctor
Most vision insurance plans cover all or a portion of the cost of an annual visit to the eye doctor. During these appointments, your eyes may be dilated to check for common eye problems and early stages of eye-related diseases.
During the exam, the eye doctor will look for:
- Decreased vision
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
Corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, can be prescribed or adjusted during these annual visits to keep you seeing your best.
Make your health a priority in 2024
You’ll be on your way to healthier living in 2024 by using your preventive care benefits. A little planning can go a long way toward achieving your health goals. With little to no cost for preventive visits, they’re an easy way to maintain or improve your overall health.
Learn more about dental and vision insurance plans available from Delta Dental of Iowa.