Oral Health Matters: The Value of Including Basic Dentistry in Your Health Insurance

Maintaining good oral health is central to your overall well-being. In Polokwane, access to quality dentistry isn’t just about preventing tooth decay - it’s key for adults and children to prevent long-term health issues and avoid emergencies. For individuals, families, and working professionals, having dental benefits as part of your health cover ensures you can access routine and preventive care without fear of unplanned expenses.

What does basic dentistry cover typically include?

• Routine oral examinations by a dental professional
• Scale and polish (removal of plaque and tartar)
• Intraoral radiographs (bitewing x-rays)
• Basic fillings and basic extractions
• Preventive treatments such as topical fluoride

How it works within your health cover

Basic dentistry is typically included in day-to-day health insurance plans. For instance, Affinity Health’s Day-to-Day Cover provides dental benefits with affordable monthly premiums. Adults, children, and retirees can find plans that focus on essential dentistry, which covers the fundamental procedures listed above.

For those who want more extensive cover, combined plans also include dental alongside other benefits - learn more about these options via the Combined Plan page.

Why prioritise dentistry cover in Polokwane?

• Polokwane’s growing urban population faces increased risks of dental decay from changing diets and oral hygiene habits.
• Public dental services are often overburdened, with long waiting times for check-ups or fillings.
• Health insurance with basic dentistry helps residents proactively protect their smiles and catch oral health issues early.

You can check the latest pricing and options for the cover that matches your needs on the Affinity Health policy rates page.

How to Make the Most of Basic Dentistry Cover in Your Everyday Routine

To get full value from your dentistry benefits, it helps to understand how to use them as part of a preventive health strategy. Here’s a step-by-step approach for individuals and families in Polokwane:

1. Schedule an annual oral exam and scale & polish - included in most day-to-day plans.
2. Take advantage of topical fluoride and x-rays for children to monitor tooth development.
3. Promptly treat minor issues (such as cavities and simple extractions) before they progress to emergencies.
4. Follow the at-home oral hygiene advice your dental provider gives each visit.
5. Utilise the network of approved providers in your area - use Affinity Health’s provider search to locate participating dentists in and around Polokwane.

Exclusions and limits to note

• Cosmetic dentistry (including whitening and orthodontics) is excluded from basic plans.
• Certain procedures like crowns, bridges, and implants are not included under basic dentistry.
• Plans have annual limits - review your policy documents for service caps and benefit timing.

How dentistry benefits support all ages

• Children: Prevention and guidance for developing teeth and early bite issues.
• Professionals: Quick appointments for exams and fillings keep downtime minimal.
• Retirees: Helps maintain oral health as a foundation for broader well-being and nutrition.

Combining dental benefits with general health cover can maximise both your oral and overall healthcare experience. For comprehensive protection across all ages in Polokwane, learn more about Junior Cover for children, Senior Cover for older adults, or general options for adults and families via the Combined Plan overview.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Day-to-Day Cover
• Affinity Health - Pricing & Plan Options
• World Health Organization - Oral Health Fact Sheet
• South African Government - Dental Care Services
• Affinity Health - Provider Search