Summer 2024

Study: Dental visits as important as annual physicals

According to Delta Dental's 2024 State of America's Oral Health and Wellness Report, 91% of U.S. adults consider dental visits as crucial as annual medical check-ups. The report also reveals that most adults, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, recognize the connection between oral health and overall health, noting that good oral care can impact health conditions like respiratory illness and diabetes.

Other key findings include:

• Confidence: 92% of adults feel more confident when they take care of their teeth
• Mental health benefits: 77% believe there’s a strong connection between oral health and mental well-being
• Teledentistry: 83% visited the dentist for preventive care in 2023, up from 78% in 2022
• Preventive care: 54% trust the care they receive through teledentistry

Read the full report here.

Think preventive first!

Regular dental visits can prevent serious and costly treatments. As a Delta Dental member, you have access to a preventive-first benefit that includes routine exams/X-rays, cleanings and periodontal maintenance without counting towards your annual maximum. This saves you money for other unexpected or necessary treatments throughout your benefits plan year.

Extra dental benefits and related care

When it comes to oral health, some people need more care than others. Our Health through Oral Wellness® program offers extra benefits and care for members at greater risk for oral diseases. Based on a health assessment risk score, you may qualify for additional cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants and periodontal maintenance. Visit our Health through Oral Wellness website today to learn more.

Starting 10/1/2024, OEBB members will also have access to our Enhanced Dental Benefits for members with intellectual disabilities. This benefit includes:

• Additional cleanings
• Nitrous oxide
• Sedation
• Case management services

With these enhanced Dental benefits services except for nitrous oxide and sedation are preventive services, therefore would not apply to the member’s annual benefit.

Visit your Member Dashboard to check your Member Handbook for details.