Has dental care in America become a luxury?
Lately, I've been talking to a lot of people who don't have dental insurance and who haven't been to the dentist in who knows how long.
These are some of the same people who wouldn't miss a mammogram or other important health screening.
Why is this?
Maybe they don't know that neglecting your teeth can lead to heart disease and other serious health problems, complications in pregnancy and even death.
Last January, I was shocked to learn that a California woman's gum disease was the cause of her baby's death, after scientists linked bacteria from her gums to an infection in her baby that was full-term but stillborn.
And it's not just teeth we should worry about. How many oral cancers are not being diagnosed by not regularly visiting a dentist?
No, dental care is not a luxury. It is a life-saving necessity that demands our attention.
Find a dentist in your area today at http://www.ada.org.
Search the National Association of Dental Plans for a directory of dental insurance and discount plans in your state.
See if you and your children qualify for Medicaid in your state at http://www.cms.hhs.gov.
No more excuses. *Smile*
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