Contemplating Dental Benefits

How Dental Health -Affects Productivity
by Jean Arballo

Research continues to identify the mouth as an early warning system and a contributor to other medical conditions. So, it stands to reason that early intervention may contribute to the early diagnosis and treatment of some systemic diseases or conditions as well.
An employee may not call in sick from work specifically for an oral health issue, but it could be at the root of the problem. The good news is that gum disease is treatable.

Through intervention, employers can help employees to become more active dental plan participants. Engaging employees can change behaviors, improve quality of life, increase productivity, and lower costs. The key is for employers to help each employee understand the importance of prevention in a way that makes sense and matters to them. Education is even more vital as consumers share more of the costs for their dental insurance.
In order to adopt healthy behaviors, make informed decisions, and have financial ownership, consumers must have access to technology, information, and services that provide education and choice. Various dental plans apply concepts to dental benefits that have been used routinely in medical plans. Some dental plans even reward members for taking preventive measures.

Simple Solutions to a Big Problem
Fewer than 10% of enrolled dental plan members reach their maximums in a given year, according to the National Association of Dental Plans. The message of prevention needs to be stronger. Regular oral care can help employees address minor problems before they become major problems, which are more expensive to treat. For example, regular dental check-ups can help detect the early stages of oral cancer or pre-cancerous conditions, according to the National Cancer Institute.

The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests the following steps to help prevent gum disease:
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Floss daily.
Eat a healthy diet and limit snacks between meals.
Visit a dentist regularly.

These recommendations demonstrate just how a few simple steps can reduce the potential for severe illnesses. Every dollar spent on preventive dental care could save $8 to $50 in restorative and emergency treatment, according to the American Dental Hygienist Association.
Medical benefits are typically the focus at open enrollment. If employers had a better understanding of how oral health issues affected their workforce, there may be more emphasis on dental plans as there should be. Employers are always looking for ways to improve quality of life for employees while increasing productivity. Information paired with a call to action can contribute significantly to a healthier workforce.
–––––––––

Jean Arballo is a sales manager for CIGNA Dental of Southern California. She is located in Glendale, Calif. and can be reached at jean.arballo@cigna.com or at (818) 546-5328.