Have you ever wondered why dental insurance often feels separate from overall healthcare? There may be reason for optimism. Delta Dental’s 2024 survey shows a notable shift in public understanding: 92% of adults recognize a clear connection between oral health and overall health, and 96% of parents see that link for their children. This growing awareness underlines the importance of integrating dental care with broader health strategies.
More adults are now identifying specific chronic conditions and systemic diseases that tie back to poor oral health than in previous years. That trend is encouraging for anyone working to raise awareness about oral-systemic links, because it strengthens the case for insurance and healthcare policy changes that reflect current science.
What could dental insurers do to better align with this understanding? Here are four practical suggestions that would improve prevention, early detection, and overall outcomes:
- Cover Comprehensive Health Tests
Insurance plans should consider covering blood and microbiome tests that offer insights into systemic inflammation and metabolic health—examples include CRP (C-reactive protein), A1C (a measure of average blood sugar), vitamin D levels, and oral microbiome assessments. These tests can reveal underlying issues that affect both oral and systemic health and enable earlier, more targeted interventions. - Expand Preventive Care Services
Preventive dentistry remains the most cost-effective approach to maintaining oral and overall health. Insurers could broaden coverage to include biannual professional cleanings for adults, hydroxyapatite varnish treatments, and dental sealants where appropriate. Investing in prevention reduces the need for more extensive—and expensive—treatment later on. - Support Holistic and Integrative Dental Treatments
Recognizing the mouth-body connection means embracing interventions that extend beyond conventional dentistry. Coverage could be expanded to include services that support oral health through whole-body care, such as nutritional counseling, stress-management programs, and complementary therapies when clinically justified. These integrative approaches often contribute to better, longer-lasting outcomes. - Include Hydroxyapatite Varnish as a Covered Option
Hydroxyapatite varnish has emerged as an effective alternative to traditional fluoride varnish for remineralization. Offering coverage for hydroxyapatite treatments provides patients with additional safe, evidence-informed choices that may better suit individual needs.
Final Thoughts
Acknowledging the oral-systemic link is an important first step for insurers, but meaningful change requires updated benefits, broader preventive coverage, and support for integrative care. As dental insurance evolves to reflect current knowledge, patients stand to gain more comprehensive protection that supports their overall health. Continue to advocate for these changes and stay informed about how your dental plan can best serve your needs.
I welcome your thoughts—reply and let me know what you think.
Latest from the Ask the Dentist podcast
In Episode #121, Dr. David Lin, Chief Scientific Officer and co‑founder of Bristle, joins me to discuss oral probiotics: who should use them and why they matter. If you missed it, the episode covers practical guidance on probiotic use and how these supplements can help balance the oral microbiome.
Fygg and Bristle have collaborated on Oral Probiotic Breath Mints formulated with six researched probiotic strains and 3.5 billion CFU per mint. They’re designed to support fresh breath, reduce cavity risk, and calm gum inflammation. The mints are suitable for children over four and adults, and they can be a helpful addition to your daily oral care routine.
If you want clear, actionable information on using probiotics for oral health—this episode is a must-listen.
Wishing you a week of health and happiness,
Dr. Mark Burhenne
P.S. One of the most effective ways to prevent oral illness is to support a healthy oral microbiome. I founded Fygg to offer oral care products that nourish beneficial mouth bacteria. Use code “ATD15” for a discount on select products.