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Having adequate dental insurance is essential because it can make it easier for you to maintain good oral hygiene and health. Oral health is important because it affects your physical appearance and self confidence. It can also impact your overall health and quality of life.

According to Health Canada, untreated cavities can be painful and lead to serious infections.

Cavities and gum disease may contribute to major conditions such as diabetes and respiratory diseases. Some studies link poor oral health with heart disease and even women having pre-term, low-birth-rate babies. Even missing and crooked teeth can hamper your ability to chew and digest food properly, leading to insufficient oral health.

To maintain good oral hygiene and health, Health Canada recommends that you brush and floss your teeth daily. You should also use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to minimize bacteria in your mouth. It's also important to eat a healthy diet based on Canada's Food Guide. In addition, visit your dentist regularly.

Insurance Helps with Routine and Major Care
Insurance can make it more feasible for you to receive dental care for routine and conditions. Statistics have shown that patients with dental coverage will seek out required care on a far more regular basis than those without coverage, according to the Canadian Dental Association. That's why it's important for you to maintain sufficient dental insurance coverage.

Dental insurance generally covers 100 percent of cleanings, exams and annual X-rays. Extractions, certain surgeries and emergency care are also fully covered under most insurance plans. If you don't have any major problems with your teeth, you'll need to visit the dentist approximately twice a year. During that time, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay and gum disease. Each year, X-rays of your teeth will be taken to identify undetected problems. If you don't have any active tooth decay or gum disease, you probably will not need to change your brushing or flossing habits.

During regular checkups, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth. He or she will use a small metal tool to scrape hard mineral buildup known as tartar off your teeth, floss your teeth thoroughly and use a special compound to help clean and polish your teeth. The hygienist may also apply sealants to prevent cavities or fluoride treatments during routine office visits.

Dental Insurance and Serious Issues
If you have major problems with your teeth, dental insurance will generally cover a portion of the costs. For example, many insurance plans cover up to 80 percent for fillings and up to 50 percent for root canals, restorative crowns and implants. Corrective braces are often covered at more than half the cost, although most plans cover orthodontics only for children under the age of 18. Most insurance plans do not pay for cosmetic dentistry used to improve the appearance of a person's teeth, mouth and smile. Some of the most common cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, veneers and inlays/onlays.

A good dental insurance plan can assist you and your family with paying for appropriate preventive dental care, as well as expenses relating to more comprehensive restorative and corrective procedures. For more information about oral health and dental insurance, visit the Canadian Dental Association's website.