ERS - State of Texas Dental Discount Plan

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ERS news and announcements

Announcement: December 2015

A Gift You Can Give Yourself

Many of us are gearing up for the holidays, and with that comes gift shopping. It can be hard to think about yet another big expense when we often have long shopping lists. But if you've been putting off important dental work or your routine checkup, the State of Texas Dental Discount Plan can help reduce that cost to something a little more affordable, especially in the middle of the holiday rush.

Remember: The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is not dental insurance. This discount plan allows you to pay a discounted fee at the time of service when you visit a participating network dentist. The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan can be used on routine and preventive care, specialty treatment and even cosmetic services such as teeth whitening. There are no limits on plan use, and savings start as soon as your plan is effective.

Plus, we're here to help! Careington's Customer Care team is ready to answer your questions about the plan, the network access and the savings you will experience as a plan member. Simply call toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you.

Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season December 2015

Teen with braces

After a full holiday season of sweets and treats, your teeth need all the TLC they can get. Here are some tips to keep your teeth healthy through the holidays.

Read more


Announcement: November 2015

The holidays are right around the corner.

Whether it's for your Christmas card or simply feeling more confident at holiday parties and family gatherings, now is a great time to schedule your next cleaning or even a teeth whitening appointment. Your State of Texas Dental Discount Plan membership will help you save on both for a low monthly fee!

Medicare retirees: Don't forget, your Fall Annual Enrollment begins this month! The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is so easy to use, and most importantly, it provides you with instant, significant savings on dental care and treatment. For just $2.25 per month for an individual membership or $4.50 per month for you and your spouse, you can enjoy savings on routine checkups, treatment and even cosmetic services like whitening, dentures and orthodontics. It's important to maintain good oral health at every age. A healthy body starts with a healthy mouth, and we believe a healthy mouth doesn't have to come at the price of a happy wallet.

Remember: The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is not dental insurance. This discount plan allows you to pay a discounted fee at the time of service when you visit a participating network dentist. The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan can be used on routine and preventive care, specialty treatment and even cosmetic services such teeth whitening. There are no limits on plan use, and savings start as soon as your plan is effective.

Plus, we're here to help! Careington's Customer Care team is ready to answer your questions about the plan, the network access, and the savings you will experience as a plan member. Simply call toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you.

Diabetes and
Oral Health November 2015

Teen with braces

November is American Diabetes Month. The goal of this month is to raise awareness of this ever-growing disease 29.1 million Americans live with. Did you know diabetes can have a huge impact on your oral health?

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Announcement: October 2015

Medicare-eligible retirees - It's almost time for Fall Enrollment, so mark your calendars for November 2!

ERS benefit fairs also begin October 26. Come see us to learn about the plan, learn how much money it can save you and pick up one of our free dental kits!

Have you used your State of Texas Dental Discount Plan yet? We now have even more providers throughout Texas and the U.S.*, so finding fast, affordable dental care is easier than ever!

Call us toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you, schedule your appointment and save!

*Excluding Vermont

DIY Don'ts: Orthodontics October 2015

Teen with braces

We've already warned you about the possible harmful effects of DIY teeth whitening, but this is even worse!

This new trend of DIY orthodontics is truly concerning. Now teenagers who are unhappy with their smiles and need orthodontic work are turning to online tutorials on YouTube and other sites for at-home treatment.

Read more


Announcement: September 2015

Attention State of Texas Dental Discount Plan participants!

You should have received your enrollment kit in the mail by now. Have you made a dental appointment yet? Now's a great time to knock out one of your recommended two annual cleanings!

Routine dental exams are crucial to your overall health and well-being. Did you know that your teeth and mouth can reveal signs of diabetes, leukemia, kidney disease, heart disease and some kinds of cancers? These can all be identified from a routine dental exam. Hopefully, you'll pick up that phone and make an appointment if you haven't already!

Don't forget, with your plan membership you can save 20% to 60% on dental care and treatment for just $2.25 per month for yourself or $7.65 per month for your whole family. You can also save on orthodontics for you or your kids.

Call us toll-free at (844) 377-3368 (TTY-711) with any questions you may have about your plan. Our Customer Care team is happy to help!

Back-to-School Savings September 2015

Back to School

Back-to-school savings don't have to mean just school supplies, backpacks and clothes! Why not also save on dental care for the new school year? A bright, healthy smile is always in style and can do wonders for their confidence.

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Announcement: August 2015

Just enrolled in the State of Texas Dental Discount Plan? Now what?

First of all, welcome! Make sure to watch for your enrollment kit in the mail. You should receive it before September 1, when your new dental services begin. After that, it's easy to get started! Your new membership provides you with instant savings of 20% to 60% on dental care and treatment.

Just follow these steps!

  1. Sign up – check!
  2. Search for a participating dentist near you.
  3. Schedule your appointment.
  4. Save instantly at the point of service.

Four simple steps that lead to a brighter, healthier smile!

Remember, the State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is not dental insurance. This discount plan allows you to pay a discounted fee at the time of service when you visit a participating network dentist. The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan can be used on routine and preventive care, specialty treatment and even cosmetic services such as braces for children and adults, and teeth whitening. There are no limits on plan use, you can change providers at any time, and savings start as soon as your plan is effective.

Plus, we're here to help! Careington's Customer Care team is ready to answer your questions about the plan, the network access, and the savings you will experience as a plan member. Simply call toll-free at (844) 377-3368, Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. CT for assistance, or click here to search for a dentist near you.

Tips for Sensitive Teeth August 2015

Sensitive Teeth

Does a sip of hot coffee or a bite of ice cream set your teeth on edge? Having sensitive teeth is more common than you may think, and we have a few tips for you to follow to help with that pain.

Tooth sensitivity is caused by the enamel wearing away and even exposing the sensitive nerves inside the tooth. No wonder it hurts so much! Plaque buildup can contribute to enamel erosion, so a good brushing and flossing routine is key. There's an art to brushing, too. Use a soft-bristled brush (these are much easier on the teeth) and brush in small circles instead of back and forth. Don’t brush too hard!

Read more


Announcement: July 2015

Summer Enrollment has begun!

The State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM can help you save on routine and major work, cosmetic procedures (like teeth whitening), orthodontics and more for a low monthly fee that starts at just $2.25 for a member-only plan.

If you haven't received it already, you'll receive your Summer Enrollment packet in the mail any day now with information about which enrollment phase you're in. Our network in Texas and throughout the U.S.* is now bigger than ever, so finding a dentist near you won't be a problem! And if your favorite dentist isn't in our network, you can easily nominate him or her to join our plan.

We are also holding enrollment fairs all over Texas to spread the word of how the State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM can help you save on dental care. Join us at an upcoming enrollment fair near you!

*This plan is available throughout the United States, excluding the state of Vermont and U.S. territories. Participants may also access savings on dental care in the United Kingdom.

Don’t DIYJuly 2015

Bright smile

We're in the age of lightning-fast Internet, and with that comes easy access to many things - including DIY videos.

DIY (do it yourself) tutorials can be blessings for quick and easy solutions, and it seems like there's a DIY for almost everything now. Simply search and you can patch a cracked tile or recreate your favorite skincare scrub. But with the hundreds of helpful DIYs come the scary ones. There are some things that shouldn't be done yourself, especially when it comes to your dental care!

Read more


Announcement: June 2015

State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM

Summer Enrollment begins at the end of this month, so mark your calendars! You'll receive your Summer Enrollment packet later this month and it will let you know which enrollment phase you're in.

The State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM can help you save on routine, preventive, major work and cosmetic dental care, orthodontics and more for a low monthly fee that starts at just $2.25 for a member-only plan. Our network in Texas and throughout the U.S.* is now bigger than ever. And if your favorite dentist is not in our network, you can easily nominate him or her to join our plan.

If you already have a State of Texas Dental Discount Plan, have you used it yet? If you don't use it, you can't save! It's easy to use the plan and save, so don't put off dental work you need any longer.

With the State of Texas Dental Discount Plan, there are no limits on use, it's easy to use, and you can visit providers not just in Texas, but all over the U.S.*

Call us toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you, schedule your appointment and save!

*This plan is available throughout the United States, excluding the state of Vermont and U.S. territories. Participants may also access savings on dental care in the United Kingdom.

Summer SafetyJune 2015

youth football player

We encourage our members to get out and get active, but make sure you’re also staying safe!

It is reported that between 13% and 39% of dental injuries in older children and adults result from sports. Make sure you're taking precaution to protect your teeth this summer. Prevent sports-related injuries by using proper equipment. Make sure you wear your helmet, and if you're playing a contact sport, a mouth guard is a must. On average, mouth guards help prevent roughly 200,000 mouth injuries per year among football players.

Read more


Announcement: May 2015

State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM

Everything's bigger and better in Texas. And now the State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is, too!

Our provider count has grown this year with even more dentists to see all over Texas and the U.S.*, which means even more choices for you. We now have more than 7,200 dental access points in Texas and more than 61,000 across the nation!

The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan can help you save on dental care, orthodontics and more for a low monthly fee that starts at just $2.25 for a member-only plan.

There are no limits, it's easy to use, and you can visit providers not just in Texas, but all over the U.S.*

And, if you choose to renew your plan this year, there is absolutely no interruption of service!

Call us toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you, schedule your appointment and save!

*This plan is available throughout the United States, excluding the state of Vermont and U.S. territories. Participants may also access savings on dental care in the United Kingdom.

World No Tobacco Day May 2015

Woman with braces.

To celebrate World No Tobacco Day on May 31, let's talk a bit about a touchy subject - smoking.

Cigarettes have long been a health concern, and they're usually most associated with cancer and respiratory problems. But how does smoking affect your oral health? Do smokers need to see the dentist more often?

Read more


Announcement: April 2015

The dates for Summer Enrollment are here, so mark your calendars early!

Summer Enrollment starts June 29 and ends July 31.

ERS benefit fairs also begin in late June. Come see us so you can learn about the plan, learn how much it can save you and maybe get some free stuff!

If you already have a State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM, have you used it yet? If you don't use it, you can't save! It's easy to use the plan and save, so don't put off dental work you need any longer.

Call us toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or search online for a provider near you, schedule your appointment and save!

Set the Record Straight April 2015

Woman with braces.

Let's get something straight: braces aren't just for kids.

A recent study by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) showed a rapid increase in the number of adults getting orthodontic work within the past few years. It's never too late to get a smile you're proud of and one that boosts your confidence!

According to the 2012 study, about 20 percent of orthodontic patients were older than 18. About 1.2 million adults were treated that year - a 40-percent increase from 20 years ago.

Whether it's braces, expanders or retainers, The State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM can help you save on orthodontics for not only your kids, but also for you! We want to help you get the best smile you can at a price you deserve.

Sources: http://www.orthodonticproductsonline.com/2013/10/aao-study-finds-adults-are-seeking-orthodontic-treatment-in-record-numbers


Announcement: February 2015

February is National Children's Dental Health Month!

Does your child need braces? Does he or she have the beginning of a cavity from all the holiday sweets? Your State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM can help!

Since February celebrates and promotes oral health for children, this is a great time of year to fit in your child's first cleaning. After all, you only need two per year!

A common question is when a child's first dental visit should occur. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, your child should see a pediatric dentist when his or her first tooth appears. You should also schedule an appointment for them no later than their first birthday. It's important to care for your child's teeth at an early age.

Don't forget to use your State of Texas Dental Discount Plan on your or your child's visits to save significantly on routine and preventive care. These discounts also apply to cosmetic services such as braces and teeth whitening.

Remember: The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is not dental insurance. This discount plan allows you to pay a discounted fee at the time of service when you visit a participating network dentist. There are no limits on plan use, and savings start as soon as your plan is effective.

Plus, we're here to help! Careington's Customer Care team is ready to answer your questions about the plan, the network access, and the savings you will experience as a plan member. Simply call toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you.

Are you making 2015 truly meaningful? February 2015

Hoping for a great 2015

Many of us like to make New Year's Resolutions, and more often than not, they're to get healthier. (Unfortunately, some of us have already abandoned those resolutions.) We want to better ourselves, but not everybody knows that a healthy body starts with a healthy mouth!

So when you buy produce and lean protein at the grocery store, pick up some floss, too! When you go to the gym and return home feeling great about yourself, finish your nightly routine strong with brushing, flossing and mouthwash. As you continue to keep your goals and take care of yourself, make sure you show your toothbrush some TLC, too. You can read our previous article here for some toothbrush tips.

Don't abandon your resolution for a healthier mouth! It's so simple to do, and your body will thank you for it.


Announcement: December 2014

At a time of year when many of us are buying presents for loved ones, it can be hard to think about yet another big expense. If you've been putting off important dental work or your routine checkup that can help recognize other health concerns, the State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM can help reduce that cost to something a little more affordable.

Remember: The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan is not dental insurance. This discount plan allows you to pay a discounted fee at the time of service when you visit a participating network dentist. The State of Texas Dental Discount Plan can be used on routine and preventive care, specialty treatment and even cosmetic services such as braces for children and adults, and teeth whitening. There are no limits on plan use, and savings start as soon as your plan is effective.

Plus, we're here to help! Careington's Customer Care team is ready to answer your questions about the plan, the network access, and the savings you will experience as a plan member. Simply call toll-free at (844) 377-3368 for assistance, or click here to search for a provider near you.

Sensational Savings. December 2014

Family Holidays

Holidays means friends, family and lots of smiling!

It's important not to neglect your smile during the holiday season. Even though our brains may be in shopping mode for most of December, don't forget about a great gift you can treat yourself to: a checkup and whitening for your smile.

The first thing people usually notice about you is your smile. And during the holidays, this is probably the only time of year you see some of these friends and family members. There are pictures being taken left and right, and who doesn't want to have a bright, healthy smile in these captured moments?

So if you do decide to fit in that last-minute checkup or decide to get a teeth whitening procedure to freshen up your smile, don't forget to enjoy discounts from your State of Texas Dental Discount PlanSM.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday season!