As the new year begins, most of us are relieved to finally put 2020 behind us. More than anything, we want this new year to be a healthy one.
If you are like most TMA members, you may have just signed up for health insurance during the annual open enrollment period. However, dental insurance was probably not included in your health insurance package.
Why Oral Health Is So Important
Although most health insurance doesn’t cover oral health, you can’t have a healthy body without a healthy mouth. Our mouth is an entry point into the body and is connected to the brain, heart, stomach, and lungs. Therefore, infections that begin in the mouth, such as periodontitis, can affect other areas of the body.
Medical studies have shown a connection between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease and other conditions. Regular dental visits can detect and treat gum issues early, before the problem spreads to other organs and body systems.
Dental care is not limited to preventative care, it can also help diagnose medical problems elsewhere in the body. When your dentist examines your mouth, he or she has a window into your overall health as well. Dry mouth, or dry, pale or receding gums could all be clues about the presence of medical conditions or illnesses in other parts of the body.
Making Dental Care More Affordable
Despite the proven value of regular dental visits, some may hold back due to cost concerns. Delaying treatment only makes things worse. Even putting off a regular hygiene visit can lead to more plaque buildup, increased risk of gum disease and more extensive, costly treatments and follow up visits.
We have partnered with MetLife Dental to give members access to a vast network of hundreds of thousands of dental locations. An estimated 80% of dentists are part of the MetLife Dental network. When you use a network dentist, your preventative care is 100% covered. You will receive a free dental exam every six months, including two cleanings and routine x-rays with no deductibles or copays. If you require additional treatment, your dental plan will entitle you to discounted rates on all covered services.
Although you will see the greatest savings with in-network providers, you aren’t limited to the network. You can use any dentist that you prefer. As a TMA member, when you use an out-of-network provider, you are entitled to discounted group rates.
Protection for You, Your Family and Your Employees
We realize TMA members have a variety of circumstances. Some get dental coverage through their employer benefits program. Others do not and must secure their own coverage. Regardless of your situation, whether you own your own practice, work in a hospital, or are retired, you are eligible for dental insurance through TMA Insurance Trust.
If you have children, dental insurance provides much-needed peace of mind. The MetLife dental plan covers their pediatric dentistry needs including sealants, fluoride treatments and orthodontics.
If you are looking to provide dental coverage for staff members in your medical practice, our group benefits advisors can provide you with group dental options and assist you with enrollment.
Contact Us Today
TMA Insurance Trust wants to help you start of this year and every year with a healthy smile. Our advisors are standing by, ready to assist you with a free dental insurance consultation. Let us help you get the coverage you need. Contact us today.
For over 60 years, TMA Insurance Trust advisors have been serving Texas physicians, their families and staff. TMA Insurance Trust prides itself on offering unbiased information and strategies to members, along with exclusive group rates on a range of the highest-rated plans in the industry.
