Do you enjoy speaking in public? Do you like the idea of being locked in a room with 10 spiders? To most people, such scenarios are uncomfortable or even fear-inspiring. Yet, a recent survey found that more than 50% of people would rather do those things than undergo root canal therapy. Root canal therapy does not deserve its bad reputation, but it is a complex treatment that is usually preventable. One key to avoiding the need for it is utilizing your dental insurance coverage for basic services. Let’s talk about how and why you can do that.

Dental Insurance Is Designed for Prevention

Most dental insurance companies strongly encourage their policyholders to keep up with preventive dentistry. In fact, most plans cover two cleanings and exams every calendar year at 100%. That means that for no more than the cost of your monthly premium, you can receive two services that are absolutely essential for preventing serious dental problems. Since we are nearing the end of 2021, now is the perfect time to schedule your second preventive appointment of the year. If you don’t get in before December, you might lose out on your benefits!

How Do Dental Checkups and Cleanings Prevent Root Canal Therapy?

The need for root canal therapy arises when an infection attacks the interior chamber of a tooth, its pulp. Often, this occurs because untreated decay works its way through both the enamel and the underlying dentin, eventually reaching the tooth’s innermost layer.

At a cleaning and checkup appointment, a hygienist removes harmful tartar from your teeth, which greatly reduces your risk of cavities. During the exam portion of the appointment, your dentist looks for any signs of existing decay. If they find a small cavity, they can stop it from worsening with a filling.

Getting a filling is a simple and quick process. Plus, insurance usually covers around 80% of the cost of fillings. If you neglect preventive care and end up needing root canal therapy, your insurance might cover just 50% of your procedure’s cost.

Other Ways to Prevent Root Canal Therapy

In addition to making the best use of your dental insurance, there are other steps you can take to reduce the chances that you will need root canal therapy:

• Maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine at home.
• If you grind your teeth at night, wear a nightguard while you sleep.
• Wear a mouthguard when you play sports.
• Talk to your dentist in Lakeville about any new dental sensitivity — it could mean you have a cavity that needs to be filled.

Root canal therapy isn’t as scary as most people believe, but it’s still best if you can prevent it. Making good use of your insurance and caring well for your mouth on a daily basis can keep your smile in great shape!

Meet the Practice

Drs. Minh-Phuong Bui and Le Nguyen are the dentists at Southeastern Dental Care. They are proud to offer a broad range of services, including preventive care, fillings, root canal therapy, and more. Our practice is happy to accept most insurance policies, including many from Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, and other major coverage providers. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 508-947-5717.