FALLS CHURCH, Va.   –   When it comes to your oral health, a little prevention goes a long way. That’s why the TRICARE Dental Program covers two routine dental cleanings and examinations each year.

“Regular dental care isn’t just about having a nice smile, it’s about protecting your overall health, so you can avoid bigger issues down the road,” said Douglas Elsesser, a program analyst with the Dental Program Branch of the TRICARE Health Plan at the Defense Health Agency.

Prevention is the best medicine

Preventive dental care is important, even if you’re brushing and flossing every day just like you’re supposed to. Your mouth is constantly dealing with bacteria, sugars, and acids from eating and drinking throughout the day. Despite your best efforts, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach spaces on your teeth and gums.

Plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can cause:

• Cavities. The acids in plaque erode your tooth enamel (the outer covering of your tooth).
• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Plaque irritates your gums, leading to inflammation. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is an infection of the gums that may damage the soft tissue and the bones supporting your teeth.

When you go to the dentist, a professional cleaning will remove plaque and tartar and they’ll also be able to identify early signs of trouble ranging from gingivitis to oral cancer.

Gum disease and overall health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, gum disease doesn’t just affect the state of your oral health, but also the overall health of your body. For example, gingivitis or periodontitis can make blood sugar harder to control for people who have diabetes. Some studies show there may also be a link between poor oral health and having a number of chronic health conditions.

Get even more from your TDP dental plan! If you're pregnant or have a qualifying chronic condition, you could get extra benefits. Visit the TDP website to find out about the TDP Wellness Program and how it can give you more dental care at no added cost.

Getting the most out of the TDP

Between brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing once a day, your oral health care routine may take only five minutes out of your whole day. When you put that into perspective, it’s amazing how only five minutes out of your day can not only keep your body healthy, but it can also save you thousands of dollars.

By taking advantage of your TDP benefit, you can:

• Prevent health problems. Regular cleanings prevent cavities and gum disease, keeping your mouth and body healthy, and also allow your dentist the opportunity to notice other health concerns.
• Save time and money. Addressing dental issues early on is always less expensive and time-consuming than dealing with advanced problems requiring extensive treatment. Preventive care can stop things before they start.
• Maintain a bright smile. Professional cleanings not only remove plaque and tartar but also polish your teeth, leaving you with a brighter, healthier-looking smile.

Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.