Looking for affordable dental care for the elderly in Calgary? Here are some ways you can lower your dental fees without compromising your oral health.
Seniors are at a higher risk for a host of oral problems and since dental health is connected to whole-body health, it’s important that dental care for the elderly remains a priority.
Some of the dental conditions that seniors may be prone to include:
- Dry mouth
- Root decay
- Tooth loss
- Darkened teeth
Because such conditions, including periodontal disease and increased cavities, are more common in older people, seniors require more frequent visits to the dentist to manage them. This results in significantly higher dental fees.
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we offer comprehensive dental care for the elderly at affordable costs including denture services, exams and replacement fillings, to protect your well-being and improve the quality of your life.
Most Common FAQs About Dental Care For The Elderly
Senior dental problems are very common, from dry mouth to periodontal disease, and since oral health directly impacts the health of the rest of the body, these issues need to be taken extremely seriously.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about senior dental care that you should be aware of:
1. What Oral Health Risks Are Seniors More Prone To?
Even if you brush and floss daily, you may face certain dental issues as you age due to factors such as wearing dentures, taking certain medications and general health conditions.
Some of the oral conditions seniors are at a higher risk of include:
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Tooth sensitivity
- Dry mouth
- Thrush
- Gum disease
- Tooth loss
One of the most effective ways to lower your risk of such problems is to ensure you invest in regular dental care as annual checkups by your dentist can ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy for a long time.
2. How Can Seniors Improve Their Oral Health?
Most people are aware that brushing and flossing twice a day is important for maintaining good oral health. However, there are other things you can do to protect your teeth and lower your long-term dental fees.
These include:
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes dairy and high-fiber foods
- Use an electric toothbrush
- Schedule regular dental cleanings with your dental hygienist
- If you wear full/partial dentures, remember to clean them everyday
- Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash 1-2 times a day
- Quit smoking
3. What Dental Care Services Do You Offer For The Elderly?
At Marlborough Dental Centre, our qualified dentists offer comprehensive dental care for the elderly to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. These include:
- Teeth cleanings
- Dental exams
- Dentures
- Dental implants
- Dental crowns
- Dental bridges
- Replacement fillings
Whatever your dental needs, we provide high-quality services and affordable dental fees so whatever your budget, you never have to compromise the health of your teeth.
4. What Government Dental Assistance Is There For Seniors In Alberta?
One of the most effective ways of lowering your dental fees and out-of-pocket costs is through government assistance programs.
Alberta seniors with low-to-moderate incomes may be eligible for some benefits under the Dental & Optical Assistance for Seniors Program.
To be eligible for this coverage, you must:
- Be 65 years of age or older
- Have lived in Alberta for at least 3 months
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
When visiting the dentist, be sure to present your Alberta personal health number and advise them that you are a senior. They will be able to confirm your eligibility at the time of your appointment.
In addition, most clinics offer direct insurance billing so you will only be required to pay the amount not covered by your plan.
5. How Does Insurance Billing Work?
If you have dental insurance coverage, your dental clinic may be able to provide direct insurance billing to ensure smooth and easy payment transactions.
At Marlborough Dental Centre, our computers automatically deduct your insurance coverage following your appointment, if applicable, so you never have to pay your insurance provider’s share.
Direct insurance billing is a service preferred by all of our clients because it saves you the headache of filing all the necessary paperwork for reimbursement.
Call Today
To find out more about our direct insurance billing services or senior dental care, contact our Calgary clinic today at 403-248-2066.