When retirement is on the horizon, it can be easy for oral health to fall off the radar. Whether you plan to spend your retirement traveling the world or simply starting a new hobby at home, proper dental care and coverage are important for a healthy future. Here are some ways to prepare your smile for this new lifestyle.

As with every stage of life, you face a unique set of oral health changes as you grow older. These can include an increase in cavities, dry mouth, receding gums and more, making it especially important to stay vigilant about maintaining a healthy smile. In fact, tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease among those 65 and older, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Preventive care is essential for keeping teeth strong and functional. Regular checkups and cleanings can help you avoid cavities and gum disease or catch these issues early, before they become costly.

Unfortunately, many older adults don’t keep regular appointments. More than 35% of adults over 65 did not visit the dentist in 2016, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This may be because many Americans with coverage through their employer lose these benefits when they retire. Plus, many Medicare plans don’t cover dental care.

While you can pay out of pocket for dental expenses, you have coverage options that can help protect your smile and wallet for years to come. Delta Dental offers a wide variety of individual plans to fit your needs. Visit our website to shop for plans and get a quote.

You may also be eligible for a Delta Dental affiliate plan. From membership plans to federal dental programs for military retirees and veterans, find the full list on our website.