Your mouth doesn't lie

Learn the Truth About the Connection Between Dental Health and Chronic Disease.
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Your mouth offers a window into what’s going on in the rest of your body. That’s why dental health is such an important part of your overall health. In fact, research shows that illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease are tied to gum disease.1 Regular dental exams can reveal issues early on and help prevent not just tooth loss, but other serious health problems.2

With Dental Blue®, preventive care is covered at 100% with no additional cost to you if you see an in-network provider.

Time for a checkup?

Call your dentist now. Need a new dentist? Log in to Blue Connect℠ to use the Find a Dentist tool.3
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100+ diseases
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Why dental health matters

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86% increase
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Diabetes dramatically increases the risk of gum disease.4
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Better Oral Health = Better Diabetes Control
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The connection between gum disease and diabetes is clear. If you have diabetes, you’re at higher risk for gum disease.4 Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels as well.1 That means when your gums are healthier, it’s also easier to manage your diabetes.
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2x the risk
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People with gum disease are about twice as likely to have a heart attack.5
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Better Oral Health = Lower Heart Attack Risk
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Studies show that gum disease is associated with heart disease.6 In fact, those with gum disease are about twice as likely to have a heart attack than those without. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.5 By keeping your mouth healthier, you’ll help keep your heart healthier as well.
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What you can do now

You play a big role when it comes to your dental health. So, take good care of your smile – and your overall health – with these four tips from the American Dental Association.6
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Practice healthy habits

In between visits to the dentist, you’re in charge of your dental health at home! Brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily are the best ways to fight tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months (sooner if the bristles are frayed).

Keep your dentist in the loop

Oral health supports your overall health. So, your dentist plays a vital role in your health care team. Let them know about any changes to your health or medicines – just like you’d do with your primary doctor.
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Build a relationship

Seeing your dentist regularly helps spot problems early on. It’s often much easier to treat gum disease when it’s still reversible or a cavity when it’s still small. And that can save you time and money! If you don’t have a regular dentist, we’ll help you find one in your area.

Take ownership

While your dentist is part of your health care team, you are the captain of that team! So, speak up if you have questions about oral health or a procedure. Ask your dentist to explain the treatment plan step-by-step. Make sure you’re clear on what to do at home, too.

For more tips, check out mouthhealthy.org⁠. And don’t forget to call your dentist to schedule your next preventive exam. As you’ve seen, a healthy smile is worth it.

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Regular care helps prevent emergency care

Dental Blue plans make preventive care affordable. Here are some benefit highlights:5

  • Preventive care is covered at 100% with no additional cost to you if you see an in-network dentist
  • No waiting period or deductible7 for preventive services
  • Up to three checkups and preventive cleanings per benefit period depending on your plan

Check your benefit booklet for details about your Dental Blue plan. (You can download it from Blue Connect.) And if you have questions about your benefits, please contact us.

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Don’t have a regular dentist?
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Use our Find a Dentist tool on Blue Connect to find options in your area.
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