Protecting Generations of Smiles: A Look at Seal-A-Smile

10/01/2015 read Uncategorized

We’re proud to be involved with Seal-A-Smile! Learn what it’s all about:

Tooth decay is an epidemic among children living in low-income households, due to a lack of accessible dental care and poor nutrition. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 60% of all U.S. children will have a cavity by age 5. And tooth decay is nearly 100% preventable.

We have made it our mission to improve oral health and wellness across the state.

That’s why we’re proud to be a part of the Wisconsin Seal-A-Smile program, a collaborative effort between Delta Dental of Wisconsin, Children’s Health Alliance of Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ Oral Health Program. Seal-A-Smile provides school-based dental sealants to children statewide. The program targets schools with greater numbers of at-risk children.

Sealants are a thin plastic coating that dentists and dental hygienists apply to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Sealants provide an extra shield of protection on surfaces that are most likely to get cavities. Their application is simple, but the results are powerful. According to Oral Health America, 75% of sealed teeth remain cavity-free.

During the 2014-15 school year, Seal-A-Smile sealed and protected the smiles of more than 25,000 children living in Wisconsin, ensuring healthier smiles for generations to come.

DIY Halloween Costumes for Spooky Smiles

09/29/2015 read Uncategorized

Halloween costumes don’t have to be complicated or intricate; all you need are a few supplies and some crafty spirit. Here’s 3 of our clever costumes to DIY, from a Tooth Fairy, to a vampire, to a dentist costume for children.

TOOTH FAIRY COSTUME FOR CHILDREN

This Tooth Fairy tutu is an easy costume that can be whipped up in a flash. If you know how to make a knot, you’ll have no trouble creating this magical costume!

VAMPIRE COSTUME FOR CHILDREN

Vampires are known for their intimidating teeth, pale complexion and cape. Pop in the plastic fangs and make this DIY cape to turn your child into a miniature Dracula.

DENTIST COSTUME FOR CHILDREN

If your child prefers a more realistic costume than mythical one, stay true to form with this dentist headlamp. It’s the perfect addition for an easy dentist costume for children.

Gadgets and Gizmos a Plenty: Dental Hygienist Tools

09/24/2015 read Uncategorized

When it comes to dental cleanings, you probably know what to expect. If you were to put your checkup into words, it would probably sound something like this:

Pointy metal thingamabob.

Rinse.

Another pointy metal whatzit.

Floss.

Rinse again.

Spinning tooth-cleaning gizmo.

And those metal thingamabobs? Hygienists have (nearly) 20. But what are the actual names of the hygienists’ treasures? More importantly, how do these gadgets give your teeth that deep clean?

We’re here to clear up the confusion. Here are the basics:

• Mirrors

Circular, handheld mirrors help hygienists see part of your mouth’s world. They can peer into nooks and crannies, as well as check for tartar and decay. These mini mirrors are used while the other metal tools do the dirty work.

• Probes

Probes are made of metal and closely resemble a hook shape. Hygienists use it to check gum health and measure pocket depths around a tooth. There are various types of probes, each one geared towards a specific oral health issue.

• Scalers

Scalers are the metal instruments used to scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth.

• Curettes

Curettes are another metal tool featuring a rounded end. Like scalers, they also scrape away tartar, but from underneath your gums.

• Polishers

After the scaler and curette do their jobs, your hygienist will pick up the polisher. Much like a shoeshine, this tool buffs away uneven areas on teeth to leave a bright, smooth surface. Besides making your teeth shinier, polishers discourage plaque and tartar growth.

You might not be part of their world, but now you know (some of) what the hygienists know. If you want to learn more about your dental cleaning, ask them your questions — they’ll be happy to give you answers.

When it comes to mouth tools, the dental hygienist truly is the person with everything!

5 Traditions to Fall for this Autumn

09/22/2015 read Uncategorized

Many would argue that everything is better in autumn. Football fans come out of hibernation, crunchy leaves excite the senses, and pumpkin lattes comfort the soul. Celebrate the season with these 5 spins on traditional fall favorites:

1. Bob for Apples

Take a nosedive into a bucket full of apples! And, if you’re awarded best bobber, your teeth will win too. Apples have a high water content, which helps dilute the sugar they contain. Crunchy fruits require chewing, which stimulates saliva flow, thus reducing leftover food particles.

2. Candy < Corn

Aw, shucks! Whether popped or on the cob, corn is one of our tooth-healthy fall favorites. Corn contains fiber, a mineral that can help reduce plaque. Additionally, popcorn contains high levels of polyphenols, a substance that suppresses tooth bacteria.

Don’t get us wrong — we love an occasional handful of candy corn. But make sure to brush and floss your pearly whites afterward for a sweet smile.

3. Dress-up

As long as it doesn’t get stuck in your teeth, lettuce is a scary-smart selection. Like apples, salad starters such as romaine and kale increase saliva flow, which helps eliminate plaque.

And if salad were a holiday, it would be Halloween. The lettuce is like an ordinary, routine day. But just like a costume, if you dress it up, it becomes a celebration! Dress up your lettuce — make a salad with fresh fruit or lean protein. You can also make your own homemade dressing. To keep teeth happy, try one of these low-sugar vinaigrettes.

4. Collect Candy

Candy is to Halloween as blood is to Dracula. Indulge the holiday’s temptations — to a certain extent! Many dentists participate in Halloween Candy Buyback programs. They’ll donate your extra candy or in some cases, pay you! Remember to save some for the family, but enjoy your sweet stash in moderation.

5. Carve Pumpkins

After you perfect your pumpkin, make your ‘jack a snack! Pumpkin pulp is filled with enamel-building Vitamin A, fiber and potassium. Keep those seeds in sight too —pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, a nutrient that can strengthen teeth. Pump up your cooking game with one of these delicious recipes.

Get out there and fall for the season (after you jump in a pile of leaves, of course).

Gluten-Free Grins: 3 Teeth Tips for Celiac Disease

09/17/2015 read Uncategorized

Ah, the life of a celiac sufferer. Bread is your worst enemy and most coveted desire. Going “gluten-free” isn’t a fad for you — it’s your life.

For those of you with the condition, you know a celiac-friendly diet means more than just avoiding bread. Gluten sneaks into salad dressings, hot dogs and even beauty products! As you probably know too well, the tiniest gluten-containing crumb can cause a (painful) cross-contamination episode.

People living with celiac disease damage their intestines if gluten is digested. That intestine damage makes it hard to absorb key nutrients such as calcium and iron. Fortunately, by eating a gluten-free diet, those with the autoimmune disorder can reverse the damage.

But celiac disease affects more than just your food choices. Your teeth can suffer too.

Celiac disease can cause tooth discoloration, weak enamel and frequent canker sores. Oral health issues are nearly twice as common among adults and kids living with the disease.

Now for the good news: There are ways to prevent future oral health problems and keep your smile healthy.

Try these 3 tips to get your gluten-free grin on:

1. Be a picky pickier eater.

It’s easy to stick to your gluten-free diet, especially when you know the agonizing stomach pains that come after contamination. We know — it can be difficult when you’re dining out, but you’re not being high-maintenance! Go for it — ask the waiter if the breaded chicken fingers were cooked in the same fryer as your “gluten-free” fries. You’re protecting your body…and teeth.

2. Use the right products.

You already have your own toaster and frying pan separate from the family, what’s the harm in adding a few more products to your celiac-friendly collection? Even though you spit out most dental products, it’s easy for traces of toothpaste or mouthwash to remain in your mouth. Consult this list of 100% gluten-free personal products.

3. Tell everyone you know.

Does your dentist know you have celiac disease? It’s crucial for many reasons. The first guidelines for dentists were just published in 2011. In other words, celiac detection and protection is new to the dentistry world. If you were diagnosed during adulthood, and teeth damage has already been done, talk to your dentist. He or she may be able to recommend solutions for your tooth troubles.

And don’t forget to inform your family! Celiac disease is hereditary. In fact, first and second-degree relatives have a high risk of developing a gluten allergy or celiac disease. Make sure your family knows they’re at risk, as well as what common celiac symptoms look like.

If you or someone you know lives with celiac disease, visit celiac.org for more tips and information.

4 Ways to Nail School Picture Day

09/15/2015 read Uncategorized

The school year is underway. New haircuts and freshly pressed clothes fill the halls. It must be that time again — picture day!

Closed eyes, forced smile, squinty face — these are all familiar photography faux pas. Skip the smile skepticism! With minimal coaching and a pinch of parental prep, your child’s “say cheese” can be accident-free:

1. Keep outfits simple.

Picture day ensembles should be comfy, simple, and of course — something they love. Light colors favor darker complexions while dark colors favor lighter complexions. Try to keep patterns to a minimum. Lastly, remember to pack an extra outfit in case of (clothing) emergency.

2. Pack “safe” lunches.

Picture day times can be unpredictable. Time slots may fall after lunchtime — pack a meal that’s tooth-healthy and mess-free. Here are some lunchbox tips to get you started.

3. Prep, don’t pose!

It’s difficult to smile on command, especially for kiddos. Take some practice snapshots at home. Don’t force stiff, unnatural poses. Give kids posture freedom and their smile will be picture-perfect.

4. Embrace the imperfections.

Did the Tooth Fairy visit your house over the summer? Whether it’s a toothless grin or a mouth full of metal, encourage children to embrace their smile style. After all, it’s what makes them unique!

Now that your family is picture day-prepared, it’s time for school snapshots to take center stage!

What is your most memorable picture day moment? Entertain us below!

Navigate Your Claim in 3 Easy Steps

09/08/2015 read Uncategorized

Getting to the dentist can be hard enough. From taking time off of work to scheduling follow-up appointments, the last thing you want to worry about is the status of your claim.

That’s why we try to make it easy. Here’s what you need to know about navigating your claim:

1. Understand Your Coverage

A claim is the formal payment request submitted by your dentist (or care provider) to Delta Dental. We will then determine how much of the claim is covered by your plan. Avoid surprises — learn about your benefits before you go to the dentist.

If you have questions about your plan specifics, contact us today.

2. Access Your Claim

You can access claim information using any one of the following methods:

• Sign in to your online account

Log in to your account to manage your benefit plan from the comfort of your own home.

• Download our Mobile App (iTunes or Google Play)

Our app allows you to conveniently access your claims 24/7, right at the palm of your hand.

• Contact customer service at [email protected] or call 800-236-3712

3. Understand Your Claim

You don’t have to be fluent in insurance lingo to understand your claim! We break down your claim in an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) that includes: the costs of your treatment, what your plan covers, and how much you may owe after coverage.

Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to ask!

Tips for Dentists: How to Check Patient Benefits and Eligibility

09/03/2015 read Uncategorized

Did you know that Delta Dental of Wisconsin offers an easy way to check your patient’s benefits and eligibility?

Log into the Dentist Connection on our website.

Enter your patient’s information including name, date of birth, along with their subscriber ID.

This is where you will see up-to-date benefits information. You can also check up to 18 months of past claims for your patients, to confirm what’s been paid or not.

Something for your and your patients to keep in mind – be clear about your network.

This will help your patients understand the benefits they’re able to receive. Remember, different plans reimburse at different levels. We know your network isn’t top of mind and it’s easy to simply state, “I’m a Delta Dental dentist.” However, networks differ, so be specific about yours.

Informed patients are happy patients. And happy patients will be eager to return to your office.

Have additional questions? Call Provider Relations at 800-836-0490.

After-School Snacks for Every Schedule

08/27/2015 read Uncategorized

Back-to-school season signals sports, schedules, and one other important staple – snacks.

If you hear, “I’m hungry!” the second your child hops in the car, you’re in good company. It’s common for kids to have an appetite after school. School-aged children eat early in the day, oftentimes before noon. It’s no wonder they crave mid-afternoon munchies!

It’s important for your kids to have perfectly portioned snacks – you want them to feel satisfied without spoiling their dinner. A nutritious diet, including both meals and snacks, aids in strong bones, teeth, and gums.

Here are 3 smile-worthy snacks perfect* for every pick-up:

*Click the links to learn how certain foods benefit growing bodies and smiles.

Carpool Snacks

Although it’s important to pack a tooth-friendly snack, make sure it’s car approved too! Stick to dry snacks in plastic baggies:

• Non-messy fruits, like grapes or apple slices

• Nuts mixed with dried fruit

• String or cubed cheese

At-Home Snacks

If school is close to the kitchen, why not skip the car food and savor snack time at home? Before you start dinner, cook up one of these creative snacks:

•Goat Cheese and Veggie Pinwheels, filled with zucchini, carrots, and whole grains

•Homemade hummus, served with pita chips and broccoli

After-Sport Snacks

Little athletes have big appetites! Fuel your all-stars with these post-practice pleasers:

• Soy Nut Clusters, loaded with protein

• Vitamin-rich fruits, such as oranges or bananas

For more snack ideas, check out our other recipe blogs.

26 and Uninsured: 5 Options After You Age Out Your Parents’ Plan

08/25/2015 read Insurance Resources and Dental Benefits

You have your whole life ahead of you – get covered today!

Birthdays often mark major milestones: Driver’s license at 16, voter registration at 18…

…and getting kicked off of your parents’ health insurance at 26.

Prior to blowing out your 26 candles, health insurance was probably not top-of-mind. That may be because your parents’ coverage probably made things easy.

It’s time to take charge of your health and declare your independence! It’s important to have health and dental insurance, even if you don’t get sick very often.

It’s time to birthday shop for some options:

1. COBRA

Some health plans offer COBRA continuation coverage, which allows 18-36 months of coverage after you age out of your parents’ plan. Learn if you’re eligible.

2. Employee Health Benefits

If your job offers health insurance, you’ll likely have 30-60 days to enroll after you lose your parents’ benefits, even if it’s not during an open enrollment period.

If your parents’ plan included dental coverage, but your current job doesn’t, look into getting your own individual plan.

3. Private Health Plans

Individual benefit plans may not be as expensive as you think. Price out your options and develop a savings plan. You may have to make some tough choices, but you’ll stay covered and healthy.

4. Government Health Plans

You may qualify for state-funded programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid. Browse the health insurance exchange to find a plan for your needs and budget.

5. Catastrophic Plans

We know, we know. You’re in your mid 20s – you rarely get sick! But that doesn’t mean life is accident-free. Adults under 30 can enroll in a catastrophic health insurance plan that covers worst-case scenarios.

As an emerging adult, insurance might seem like just another bill to pay. But the cost is too high not to have it.

You have your whole life ahead of you – get covered today!