Dental

Good dental care gives your family a reason to smile

Good oral health leads to good overall health and wellbeing.  Seeing the dentist regularly helps identify and stop tooth and gum problems before they become bigger health issues.

Daily tooth brushing and flossing keep the natural bacteria in the mouth in check. Without these preventive measures, you can be more susceptible to serious health challenges like pneumonia and heart disease.  Poor oral health is also linked to pregnancy and birth complications.

Get ready for your dental appointment

Afraid of the dentist? Going to the dentist for the first time or going back after a few years without regular visits can be overwhelming. But, fear of the dentist shouldn’t hold you back from scheduling and keeping appointments. Here are some tips to remain calm during your visit:

• Talk to the dentist about your concerns. They will help ease anxiety and fears by explaining what they are doing.
• See the dentist at a less busy time of day when there are fewer people and tools making noises that could trigger anxiety.
• Ask a friend or a loved one to accompany you during your appointment.

Learn more about your dental benefits by watching this video.

Buckeye’s dental benefits give your family a reason to smile

Buckeye makes it easier for your family to take care of their oral health with:

• Two free oral exams and teeth cleanings per year. To find a dentist near you, visit Buckeye’s “Find a Doctor” portal or call Buckeye Member Services at 1-866-246-4358.
• Free transportation to and from your appointment. Schedule a free ride to and from a dental appointment by calling 866-531-0615 at least 48 hours in advance.

For Babies:

• Begin dental hygiene as soon as possible. Before teeth even appear, a baby’s mouth should be cleaned twice a day – after first feeding and before bed – by wiping the gums with a clean washcloth to remove bacteria and sugar. Avoid putting a baby to bed with a bottle of milk. Milk or juices can pool around teeth and cause severe decay.
• Brush regularly. Once teeth come in, a baby’s teeth should be brushed twice a day with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and water.
• Talk to a dentist or pediatrician about using fluoride-based toothpaste and receiving a fluoride application on a baby’s teeth.
• Go to the dentist. By the baby’s first birthday, they should visit a dentist to spot any potential problems early on.

For Children:

• Brush twice a day. Encourage children to brush their teeth twice a day – in the morning and right before bed – using fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush properly and don’t forget your tongue. Poor brushing can be just as bad as not brushing at all. Children should take their time and use gentle, circular motions as well as gently brush their tongues.
• Don’t forget to floss. Flossing once a day is a great way to stimulate the gums and reduce plaque.
• Consider using mouthwash. Mouthwash can help reduce acid in the mouth, clean hard-to-brush areas, and strengthen the teeth. A dentist can provide specific mouthwash recommendations for children.
• Visit the dentist regularly. Children should see the dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. The dentist can help remove plaque and look for cavities, and spot potential oral health issues.