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Worth of Mouth - The latest on business, wellness and more

Word of Mouth

The latest on business, wellness and more 

Improve employee health and retention through dental coverage

When your employees are healthy, they can be more focused and happier in their work. Multiple studies have proven maintaining healthy teeth and gums is about more than preventing cavities and gum disease – it can also benefit our physical and mental health. More Americans than ever already understand this connection. Since we know that offering employees comprehensive, affordable dental care supports their overall wellness, encourage them to visit their provider as part of maintaining their overall health.
 

Drive employee retention

One of the primary reasons to offer dental health benefits is that your employees value it. According to the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP), 87% of employees surveyed said dental benefits are essential or a differentiator when choosing between employers. In fact, 36% of respondents in a Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) study said they had left a job to pursue better benefit options elsewhere.
 

Drive better health outcomes

Did you know that good oral health has been linked to overall wellness? That includes reducing the risk of certain serious health conditions.
 

  • Heart disease: A 2024 Harvard Medical School report stated that there is a correlation between gum disease and increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • Alzheimer’s disease: A study done by the University of Illinois Chicago found that bacteria in the mouth may be linked to the disease.
  • Mental health: People experiencing oral health conditions may find speaking and eating difficult, increasing the risks of depression and other mental illness.
  • Respiratory illness: Bacteria from gum disease can affect the lungs and impede the ability to breathe properly.
  • Diabetes: Gum disease can affect people’s ability to keep their blood sugar under control. In addition, diabetes patients have a higher risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
     

Regular dental visits combined with good oral hygiene habits can reduce the risks of these conditions.
 

Preventive care and a productive workforce

Employees who visit the dentist regularly are more likely to stay focused and productive at work, thanks to fewer dental issues and better overall health. According to a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), oral problems account for up to 27% of sickness-related absences. In addition, the same study found that oral health accounts for up half of presenteeism (showing up to work while ill or in pain), which can have detrimental effects on productivity and quality of work. After all, even a minor toothache can affect your employees’ ability to focus.
 

The first step is finding a provider

Help your employees get the care they need from a Delta Dental-credentialed dentist in their area.

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