Monday, August 24, 2009
Many Americans are worried about their health insurance, but smaller numbers are as concerned about their teeth even though it has been reported that preventive care can limit future medical costs.
Between one-fourth and 30 percent of all Californians have let cavities go untreated, and many non-Caucasians have even higher rates of poor dental care, according to the Los Angeles Times.
"Our research tells us that many people in California have been avoiding routine care that might have cost about $100 for a checkup and cleaning, and then find themselves in the emergency room, where they get only an antibiotic, a bill that can average over $600 and instructions to see a dentist.
While cost may be a driver for some to not take advantage of dental insurance plans that offer lower-priced cleanings and other services, mobility can be another, especially for the disabled or infirm.
House calls have gone the way of the general store in many communities, but oral care professionals in San Francisco are finding that offering in-home dentistry can help a variety of patients.
A team of specialists travels with equipment to provide x-rays and modify dentures for patients, and Bay Area House Call Dentists say that they have found their services helpful to the elderly, autistic or severely overweight residents of the San Francisco metropolitan area.
Nationwide, however, more attention is being received by clinics like Remote Area Medical, which offers oral care services to those who cannot yet afford dental insurance plans, but the services are provided infrequently compared to recommendations by the American Dental Association.
Between one-fourth and 30 percent of all Californians have let cavities go untreated, and many non-Caucasians have even higher rates of poor dental care, according to the Los Angeles Times.
"Our research tells us that many people in California have been avoiding routine care that might have cost about $100 for a checkup and cleaning, and then find themselves in the emergency room, where they get only an antibiotic, a bill that can average over $600 and instructions to see a dentist.
While cost may be a driver for some to not take advantage of dental insurance plans that offer lower-priced cleanings and other services, mobility can be another, especially for the disabled or infirm.
House calls have gone the way of the general store in many communities, but oral care professionals in San Francisco are finding that offering in-home dentistry can help a variety of patients.
A team of specialists travels with equipment to provide x-rays and modify dentures for patients, and Bay Area House Call Dentists say that they have found their services helpful to the elderly, autistic or severely overweight residents of the San Francisco metropolitan area.
Nationwide, however, more attention is being received by clinics like Remote Area Medical, which offers oral care services to those who cannot yet afford dental insurance plans, but the services are provided infrequently compared to recommendations by the American Dental Association.
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