This content is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental. 

You might think that if you have white teeth, you don’t need to go to the dentist—but there’s so much more to it.

Did you know having a sore jaw can be a sign of a heart attack in addition to chest pain? Or that expectant mothers with poor oral hygiene are seven times more likely to give birth to premature and low birth weight babies? Those with serious tooth or gum conditions spend twice as much on healthcare costs.*

Your oral health and overall health are connected—that’s why regular brushing, flossing and mouthwash use are so important. It’s recommended that you brush for at least two minutes twice a day and as often as after every meal, floss gently after brushing and use mouthwash with fluoride for at least 30 seconds every day.

Brushing, flossing and mouthwash all help remove an invisible layer of bacteria that’s along your teeth, commonly referred to as plaque. Plaque that isn’t removed increases your risk for periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to recessed gums and even tooth loss. Setting a timer on your phone or humming a song you’re familiar with can help make sure you brush for a full two minutes every time.

Brushing and flossing at home isn’t enough to guarantee good oral health, however. It's recommended adults have routine visits to the dentist to help make sure that their teeth and gums stay in good condition and to treat any conditions before they worsen. Having dental coverage can help you get recommended routine preventive care by reducing your costs for services.

Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental is a Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) dental plan offered to retired uniformed service members, federal employees, retired federal employees and their families. With two plans available, Standard Option and High Option, there’s a plan for everyone’s dental needs for as low as $20 a month.

No matter what option you choose, all BCBS FEP Dental members enjoy cost-saving benefits, like free preventive care and no deductible for in-network services. With a large nationwide network of over 488,000 provider access points and counting, it’s easy to find a dentist near you to schedule routine preventive care visits. In fact, 99.9% of members have at least one in-network dentist within 15 miles of where they live.

It’s important for children to receive routine dental care so they can form good habits. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AADP) recommends that you schedule your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth comes in, which usually happens between six and twelve months of age. Starting in 2022, Class A, B and C in-network services are covered at 100% for children age 13 and under for all Standard Option members. That way, you can have peace of mind about your whole family’s dental health.

Visit bcbsfepdental.com to learn more about how BCBS FEP Dental’s benefits can help you shine.

*Source: BCBS Health Index 2016, only includes dental conditions identified through medical claims.