The benefits team in university human resources reminds employees that dental health is an important component of overall health management. Employees are encouraged to make the most of the preventive care covered by the Delta Dental benefit -- that's two cleanings, one fluoride treatment and a set of x-rays each year for most of us. Some employees are eligible for additional cleanings.
Iowa State employees use their dental benefit fairly well, as illustrated by these data points:
- In the current plan year, 91% of benefits-eligible employees are enrolled in the dental plan.
- During plan year 2023, 77% of enrolled participants had at least one cleaning.
- Also during plan year 2023, 59% of ISU total claims were for preventive and diagnostic (X-rays, screenings) services. Well down the list were routine fillings (13%) and cast crowns (11%).
Dental sleuthing
What some might not realize is that a dental exam can reveal more than a loose filling. During their probe of a mouth, an oral hygienist or dentist could observe symptoms related to more than 120 medical conditions, things like diabetes, HIV, infections, oral cancer, heart disease or osteoporosis. Routine checkups can uncover skin diseases, thyroid problems or an early stage of hardening of the arteries because dentists and oral hygienists may see symptoms in your mouth that you might not notice or simply aren't able to detect. And early detection is key to successfully treating many conditions.
More frequent cleanings are possible for some
Recognizing the link between oral health and overall health, Delta Dental's plan allows participants with certain health conditions to receive two additional teeth cleanings during the plan year. Those conditions include diabetes, kidney failure/dialysis, periodontal/gum disease, suppressed immune system and individuals receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Pregnant women may receive one additional cleaning.
To receive these additional free benefits, plan participants must add themselves to the Enhanced Benefits Program on the Delta Dental of Iowa website (register first in the member connection if you haven't done that previously). Step-by-step instructions are provided.
If you need to choose a dentist, consult this list, and schedule an appointment soon. Among Iowa dentists, 90% are in the Delta Dental network. Among ISU plan participants, 94% go to an in-network dentist.
