Craving Chocolate Hearts, Sweet Pies And Tarts During The Pre-Valentine’s Day Season? Don’t Overlook Your Dental Care

Calling all tooth fairies: Americans hope you’ll pay their dental bills before and after Valentine’s Day. According to a new WellPoint, Inc. omnibus survey, many consumers (72 percent) are looking for ways to save money on their dental expenses.

During a time of year when many Americans will “pay the price” for indulging in numerous decadent Valentine’s Day treats, this new survey found that Americans are looking for ways to cut back on expenses.

“This is the time of year when people should schedule a check-up appointment with their dentist and get into the habit of practicing regular preventive care,” said Gary Ballman, staff vice president of Dental Product and Development for WellPoint. “It’s important to maintain regular and routine preventive dental care, especially for those who have a sweet tooth. In short, preventive dental care can bring attention to and/or prevent chronic health issues that could cost you more money down the road, if left unattended.”

Three quarters of survey respondents agree that it is important to have dental insurance to maintain good oral health. Despite this, two-thirds (67 percent) admit that without insurance, they are less likely to visit the dentist.

Dental networks offer greater access to dental services and cost savings. In fact, half of all Americans who participated in the survey (52 percent) report that they save money by using these networks. WellPoint’s Dental Prime and Dental Complete plans covers preventive services 100 percent when members see in-network dentists. In addition, most plans cover other services like composite (tooth-colored) fillings and extra cleanings for members who are pregnant or living with diabetes. Some plans even offer coverage for dental implants – or annual maximum carryover, where some unused benefit dollars may be carried over from one year to the next.

WellPoint’s dental plans provide greater access to general dentists and specialists. The dental networks offered by WellPoint’s affiliated companies are among the largest. Like Facebook, Twitter and other social networks, plan members can access their information 24/7 to review benefit and claim information, search for dentists and other services.