-- Tooth decay is a progressive disease. Postponing treatment can lead to
more complex, more expensive treatment, such as a root canal or extraction.
-- Tooth decay is a communicable disease. Your untreated cavities can be
spread to your loved ones.
-- Recent studies have linked undiagnosed and untreated periodontal
disease with a negative impact on patients with heart disease, diabetes,
and other systemic health conditions.
-- Chronic bad breath is usually due to conditions that may be easily
prevented by regular oral hygiene appointments and consultation.
The potential health risks of postponing oral healthcare treatment can be
significant, with more and more published research supporting the existence
of a strong link between optimum oral health and overall
well-being -- especially in the area of periodontal disease. "But it
doesn't have to be this way," explains Price. "Although we face economic
challenges on a national basis, the majority of Americans still have the
ability to make continued and comprehensive oral care an integrated part of
their lives."
Is the Oral Healthcare
Can't Wait Campaign just a way for dentists to make money during tough
times? Absolutely not, says Price. "The mouth is the gateway to the rest of
the body and its overall health. If more people realized this, they would
prioritize their discretionary spending accordingly. Choosing between
undergoing periodontal disease treatment and buying a new cell phone would
become a no-brainer."
-- Dental professionals are primarily focused on prevention when their
patients allow them to do so. However, many wait until emergency conditions
such as pain prevail. By this time, the course of treatment is more
invasive and costly.
-- Many patients are not taking full advantage of the scope of services
covered by their dental insurance. Your dentist's office manager can be
very helpful in this area.
-- Most dentists are very flexible when it comes to paying out-of-pocket
expenses. Ask about using a credit card or working out a payment plan.
-- Talk to your dentist about prioritizing your treatment plan. Ask what
needs to be done immediately and what can wait until you have more
discretionary income.
"Oral Healthcare Can't Wait is a very important national initiative with
the ultimate goal of sustaining and improving oral health in America,"
explained Price. "I'm very grateful for the level of commitment we've
received thus far from the entire dental industry, including manufacturers,
trade publications, distributors, dental laboratories, and Main Street
dentists. If we work together, we can make a difference."
More consumer information regarding the Oral Healthcare Can't Wait Campaign
can be found online at www.visityourdentistnow.com. Dental professionals
are invited to visit www.oralhealthcarecantwait.com or call the Dental
Trade Alliance at 703-379-7755.
About the Dental Trade Alliance
The Dental Trade Alliance is an association of companies that provide
dental equipment, supplies, materials, and services to dentists and other
oral care professionals. Its member companies are distributors, dental
laboratories, and manufacturers located in the United States, Canada, and
Mexico. By providing the best equipment, materials, and services to
dentists and oral care professionals, they are partners in improving the
oral health of everyone. For more information, visit
www.dentaltradealliance.org or call 703-379-7755.
Contact Information: Agency Contact: Michael Ventriello Lanmark Group 732-389-4500 ext. 181