U.S. adults report dental insurance is a must for overall health

More U.S. adults see dental insurance as crucial for one's overall health, linking oral health to chronic conditions, according to the "2024 State of America's Oral Health and Wellness Report" from Delta Dental.

Additionally, an increasing number of adults recognize the role of oral health in overall wellness, including its connection to mental health, according to the report, which polled 1,000 U.S. adults and 1,000 parents of children under the age of 12.

"It is encouraging to see the increasing prioritization of oral health across the country, which is underscored by the fact that a vast majority of U.S. adults recognize that dental insurance is an important part of their oral and overall health," James W. Hutchison, president and CEO of the Delta Dental Plans Association, said in a press release dated July 31.

More adults are also adhering to preventive oral health care habits to avoid serious dental and financial repercussions. Nearly 9 in 10 (88%) adults say that dental insurance reduces their worry about dental emergencies. Additionally, 85% believe dental insurance helps save money in the long run, 84% think it is worth the cost, and 80% appreciate the prenegotiated discounts with their dentist, they wrote.

Compared to 2023, more adults associate poor oral health with specific health conditions and diseases. Ninety-two percent of adults reported that their oral health is closely connected to their overall health, and 96% of parents recognized this link in their children, which is consistent with previous years. Additionally, more than 91% believed a dental visit is as important as an annual physical, according to the report.

Self-assuredness and oral health

Moreover, 92% of adults reported believing that protecting their oral health boosts their confidence, and 77% said it was closely connected to their mental well-being. In about 1 in 5 adults, poor oral health habits can negatively impact one's mental health, leading to anxiety, sleep loss, and embarrassment about one's appearance, according to the report.

In fact, 16% of Generation Z respondents have skipped social events like concerts, birthdays, or weddings due to dental problems. Younger generations were more likely to lose sleep and feel sad when experiencing dental issues.

Additionally, parents worry about their kids, with 67% reporting they are somewhat concerned that their child's oral health issues will affect their overall confidence. Parents continue to prioritize dental coverage for their children, with nearly 9 in 10 (88%) indicating their children are insured, the report authors wrote.

"Dental benefits are essential to providing access to oral health care, which supports positive overall health outcomes for adults and children alike,” Hutchison said in the release.