An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.  ~Benjamin Franklin

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2013
All your hard work and efforts have paid off and you are ready to start a new job. Now that's something to smile about! Many of you may have an option to stay on your parents' dental insurance  until you are age 26. For those of you who cannot, your new employer may provide you with options for dental benefits.  We often receive calls from recent graduates asking us for simple advice when choosing these multiple options. Unlike medical insurance, dental insurance has limitations of coverage, waiting periods and exclusions.

WHAT IS DENTAL INSURANCE?
It is important to understand that dental insurance is a contract between you and a dental insurance company that has been selected by your employer. The benefits you receive are determined by the employer based on their negotiations with a specific insurance company. Our goal is to help you acheive and maintain optimal oral health. The goal of the insurance company is to provide only the specifically selected services as determined by your contract. We are happy to help you receive the maximum level of your dental insurance benefits.  As a courtesy, we complete and submit dental insurance claims on your behalf for quick reimbursement.

IN-OFFICE DENTAL PLAN
For established patients who do not have access to dental benefits or who choose not to participate in their employer dental benefit plan, we offer an In-Office Dental Plan that is affordable and convenient. Feel free to call the office today for more specific details on how you can participate.

Gum Disease = Serious Infection
Dr Krueger, and our hygienists, Liz & Christy, are dedicated to healthy gums. You may hear gum disease referred to as periodontal disease.  The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.  It all begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflammed.

The impact of this infection goes beyond your mouth. Active infection anywhere in the body has the potential to enter the bloodstream, compromising overall health. Unlike an infected wound on your hand or foot, gum infections can progress WITHOUT pain. No pain means that some individuals with gum disease can unknowingly allow the infection to develop into more advance stages.

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Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care. Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease. With time, plaque spreads and grows below the gum line.

Periodontal disease – and the harmful affects to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth – can be controlled.  Improvement to our patients’ overall health is often dramatically improved.
The health improvement is easy to appreciate when you consider living with an active bacteria l infection, easily exposed to one’s bloodstream, can have a detrimental affect beyond the harm to the tooth and gums.

If you have gum disease symptoms Dr. Krueger and our hygienists will help you get mouth healthy! Remember gum disease addressed early can be reversed – and gum disease addressed later can be controlled. Getting the gum infection under control will improve your overall health!

Symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the gum disease & include the following:

• Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
• Loose or separating teeth
• Puss between your gums and teeth
• Sores in your mouth
• Persistent bad breath
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  
  

WIN A $100 GIFT CARD!
For each patient you refer to us between now and August 31
your name will be entered into a drawing to win a $100 Gift Card.
Super Simple! Send us a friend or a loved one and we both win!

Have a fabulous summer & keep smiling!

Krueger Dental Associates
Dr. Krueger, Patti, Liz, Christy, Erlinda & Sandy