Compared to years ago — when people lost their smiles by middle age — more people are taking care of their teeth and scheduling routine visits to the dentist. However, getting regular dental care can be difficult for people who cannot afford services or individuals who live in locations where a clinic is not available. Yet even in the face of serious barriers, many people do what it takes – such as finding affordable dental plan options online — to receive the oral health care they need.

There are many reasons why an individual or family might not have access to oral health care. According to the American Dental Association, many people don’t have access to oral health care because of the dental sections in Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Problems. While these programs are designed to provide disadvantage Americans with health care, ironically they barely have enough funds to go around. Yet there are countless stories of people receiving the care they need through affordable dental insurance plans.

Another obstacle to receiving proper dental care is lack of transportation to dental appointments or problems of missing time at work for an appointment. Yet, if left untreated, oral health issues can lead to major health problems, including damage to bone, tooth loss and infection.

The fact is taking care of your oral health is key to good overall health and everyone deserves the chance to find the best dental insurance for their needs. In other words, everyone deserves access to quality dental care at budget-friendly costs.

The American Dentist Association suggests scheduling regular dental cleanings and exams at least once a year.

So how do you pay for it? Adult and family dental coverage is now available in a myriad of options, ranging from basic family dental insurance to individual discount plans. With a little planning and budgeting, you too can obtain the dental health care you need to life a healthy lifestyle.