eligible for these plans or face higher premiums. Despite these challenges, there are steps that individuals with chronic diseases can take to manage their healthcare costs and access necessary care. For example, individuals with chronic conditions should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. They should also explore all available Medicare coverage options, including supplemental plans and Medicare Advantage plans, to determine which plan best meets their needs and budget. There are many local non-profit associations that provide resources and education for chronic conditions as well.

In conclusion, chronic diseases significantly impact Medicare coverage and costs. Individuals with chronic conditions may face higher out-of-pocket costs, difficulty accessing certain types of care, and eligibility issues for insurance plans. However, by working with healthcare providers and exploring all Medicare coverage options, individuals with chronic diseases can manage their healthcare costs and access necessary care to maintain their health and well-being.

Ronald Stock 714.664.0607 ron@betabenefits.com www.betabenefitsmedicare.com

The Importance of Gum Health SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Good oral hygiene is the foundation for the health of your entire body, particularly as one ages. Lack of attention to oral hygiene by failing to brush twice daily and floss at least once a day, may lead to periodontal disease. Genetics, hormonal changes, medications, smoking, immunosuppression, and diabetes are also risk factors that contribute to the development of periodontal disease. 80% of Americans will be afflicted with periodontal disease by age 45, and 4 out of 5 patients with the disease are unaware they have it. Periodontal disease increases with age and 70% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is characterized by the inflammation of gum tissue, presence of disease-causing bacteria and infection below the gum line. Infection and bacteria in the mouth can cause bone loss, tissue recession and even tooth loss. These infections and bacteria can spread beyond the mouth and lead to disease in other parts of the body.

Treatment may include deep cleanings, LANAP (laser assisted new attachment procedure), bone regenerative therapy or gum grafting to restore and strengthen tissues that have been damaged.

When should you see a Periodontist?

· Unexplained bleeding while brushing or consuming food

· Bad breath that continues despite thorough cleaning

· Loose teeth or gum recession. (Oftentimes, bone loss may be associated with both of these conditions)

· Related systemic health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease or osteoporosis.

Periodontists are highly trained surgeons with three-plus years of training beyond dental school. They work with your general dentist to improve esthetics and achieve optimum dental health. In addition to the treatment of periodontal disease, periodontists remove non-restorable teeth, replace missing teeth with implants, treat gum recession with grafts and re-contour gums (crown lengthening) to improve the restorations of existing teeth.

Dr. Raymond Wright is the Periodontist at San Clemente Periodontics & Implants. As a highly trained surgeon. Dr. Wright can perform the following Procedures: tooth extractions, crown lengthening, correction of gummy Smiles, gum/bone grafting, LANAP (laser assisted new attachment Procedure), LAPIP to help with failing/ailing implants, sinus lifts, and single tooth to full mouth dental implants. For more information or to schedule an appointment, go to scgums.com or call 949.361.4867 (gums).