It’s common with any type of insurance to hear “myths” that simply aren’t the reality. With our recent partnership with Willamette Dental Group fresh in our minds, we want to share two such myths and the realities of dental insurance.
Myth #1: X-rays done on a set schedule are the best plan for your oral health.
Reality #1: False.
As you may know, at Willamette Dental Group, we don't just take x-rays routinely. We evaluate an individual patient's risk level to determine the best amount of time between new sets of x-rays.
An example of why we may take an x-ray is to check bone level. No matter how healthy a patient's gums look, it is important to check the patient's bone level which contributes to their periodontal diagnosis, and helps hygienists in both assessments and cleaning.
X-rays can show us much more than we can see by just looking in a patient's mouth. However, when we actually look in the mouth, we may actually be able to see and feel interproximally without having to x-ray. This is especially true with pediatric patients and primary dentition. If there are open contacts, a clinical exam is more accurate than a radiographic exam.
Myth #2: I need to have my teeth cleaned every 6 months to keep them healthy.
Reality #2: Also false.
The myth of the '6-month cleaning' was never based on any clinical evidence. In fact, the first occurrence of the adage 'see your dentist twice a year for healthy teeth' was in a Pepsodent toothpaste commercial in the ‘50’s!
Current research indicates that there is no benefit for a healthy mouth to be seen more than once a year… just like a wellness visit at your doctor. We practice proactive, evidence-based dentistry, which means our dentist personalize treatment plans based on the patient’s individual needs.
So the number of recommended cleanings is based on each person's unique oral health and risks. We see patients who need cleanings every 3 months, 4 months, 6 months, 12 months, or 24 months, depending on their individual risks and health levels.
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These are just two of the many dental insurance myths out there. Be sure to always educate yourself before assuming the worst...or contact to learn more!
Ready to learn about Willamette Dental? Contact us at get-benefits today to learn more.
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