Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Good dental hygiene habits developed at an early age can help promote overall health and wellness according to dentists and doctors.
Research studies have found a link between gum disease and a heightened risk of diabetes, heart attack and stroke, and poor dental health and Alzheimer's disease. In pregnant women, poor oral health has also been associated with premature births and low birth weight.
But regular dental check ups can be expensive for families without dental insurance. That is why Atlantic County has partnered with the National Association of Counties to provide a dental discount program for all residents.
The Atlantic County Dental Discount Program is not insurance. Anyone may join and there are no age or income restrictions. All household members are eligible to receive a discount of up to 50% on routine dental cleanings, x-rays, braces, dentures, crowns, root canals and more.
Members simply schedule an appointment with a participating dentist or specialist and present their card to receive a discount at the time of service. They can choose from over 400 local and 75,000 national participating service providers.
Membership starts at $6.95 per month and $59 annually for individuals, and $8.95 per month and $69 annually for families. In addition to assisting uninsured residents, it can complement existing health insurance plans and work in conjunction with health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and health reimbursement arrangements. It is also a cost effective way for younger retirees to meet their dental needs.
Additionally, the new Affordable Care Act does not include adult dental care. Using the dental discount program can help provide county residents affordable access to quality care and great savings.
For more information about the Atlantic County Dental Discount Program, including how to enroll and a list of participating dentists and specialists, visit the county web site at: www.aclink.org or call 1-877-354-6226.