The Real Cost of Not Offering Dental Benefits
True or False: Research shows that over 90 percent of systemic diseases have oral indicators, such as swollen gums or dry mouth.
If you said true, you are correct! A routine dental exam is important not just for the health of our teeth, but for maintaining overall health as well.
Too often, visits to the dentist are put on the back-burner, especially if someone is without dental insurance. It’s obvious that individuals will pay a price without insurance, but as an employer, what’s the real cost a company pays if it doesn’t offer dental benefits?
As mentioned, many systemic diseases have oral indicators. Dentists can spot symptoms of heart disease, oral cancer, diabetes and more. Symptoms such as loose teeth, bleeding gums, swollen gums or dry mouth could be an indication that something is wrong. Diagnosing a systemic disease early can help reduce medical costs and potential emergency care.
Research shows that American adults miss more than 243 million hours of productivity time yearly due to oral health problems. Routine dental exams are vital for preventative care. Dentists check for cavities, gum disease and assess overall oral health. Having access to routine care could dramatically decrease the number of work absences, as dental issues could be addressed during the regular visit, and not when a problem arises.
More than 75 percent of Americans over 35 have some form of gum disease and don’t know it. Treating a dental disease early is most effective and least costly. Having dental coverage that covers two dental visits a year can detect problems sooner and hopefully eliminate the disease or minimalize progression.
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About the Author
Emily Shrader
Marketing Manager
Emily started at VBA as the Marketing Assistant in January 2016. She worked to create and maintain VBA’s blog, regulate all social media channels, and develop our e-mail marketing campaigns. Prior to joining our team, she was the Marketing and Social Media Coordinator for The Catholic Cemeteries Association. Emily received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the Pennsylvania State University in 2013.
In December 2017, Emily began her role as Marketing Manager. Her main responsibilities include day-to-day relationship management and project management of our strategic marketing initiatives, assisting in planning and implementing marketing objectives and continuing to develop needed marketing materials and branded collateral pieces.
Emily was born and raised in Pittsburgh and currently resides in McCandless Township. She enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family and, of course, cheering on the Nittany Lions.