Monday, June 04, 2012

Affordable Dental Care for Atlantic County Residents

Good oral hygiene is vital to general overall health. Recent studies link common oral problems to illnesses that include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, premature birth, osteoporosis and even Alzheimer's disease.

And with the Atlantic County Dental Discount Card, dental care is now more affordable for individuals and families on tight budgets. Uninsured and underinsured county residents can save between 5% and 50% on their dental expenses as participating members.

The Atlantic County Dental Discount Card is provided in a joint effort with the National Association of Counties (NACo) and Careington International Corporation to help residents save on most dental procedures including routine and oral exams, unlimited cleanings, and major work such as dentures, root canals, and crowns. Cosmetic dentistry such as bonding and veneers and orthodontic services are also included.

Participants pay an annual or monthly fee for access to over 75,000 participating dentists and specialists nationwide including 400 local providers. For individuals, the fee is $59 per year or $6.95 per month while families pay $69 per year or $8.95 per month.

Once enrolled, a resident simply schedules an appointment with a participating service provider and presents the membership card to receive a discounted rate at the time of service.

"We understand that as many individuals and families are struggling to make ends meet, dental care may be seen as more of a luxury than a necessity," stated Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson. "We want to make it easier and more cost effective to obtain dental care and ensure that our residents don't have to sacrifice good oral hygiene."

The plan is not insurance and can complement existing health insurance plans or work with health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and health reimbursement arrangements.

Residents may sign up immediately by calling 1-877-354-6226 or by registering online at www.nacodentalprogram.com. For more information, visit the county Web site at www.aclink.org.