Delta Dental finds 8% increase in agreement among Americans on the importance of oral health to overall health

OAK BROOK, Ill., March 20, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Delta Dental Plans Association issued a joint statement in partnership with the Delta Dental Institute in recognition of World Oral Health Day.

"We are proud to say that oral health is gaining more attention as a key component in achieving optimal overall health," said Steve Olson, President and CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association.  "According to new data from Delta Dental, 93% of Americans agree that oral health is very important to overall well-being.  Moreover, that sentiment is on the rise – increasing from 85% in 2018. As the nation's leading provider of dental insurance, Delta Dental will continue its leadership in providing materials, platforms, and pathways for Americans to improve their oral and overall health," he concluded.

Delta Dental applauds the efforts of World Oral Health day in raising global awareness about the importance of oral health. In the United States, Delta Dental serves more than 80 million Americans with the core purpose of advancing oral health. In addition, Delta Dental companies invested more than $79 million in 2018 to help children and adults have healthier smiles through improved oral health. That work is being further elevated through the Delta Dental Institute, which was launched in June 2019.

"Oral health is health, and we are proud to join with organizations across the globe to elevate oral health's presence in overall health conversations on World Oral Health day," said Vivian Vasallo, Executive Director of the Delta Dental Institute. "Delta Dental companies across the country are deeply involved in their communities, investing in programs that improve oral health, prevent dental disease, expand access to care, and ensure all Americans can have the healthy smile they deserve."

About Delta Dental Plans Association
Delta Dental Plans Association, based in Oak Brook, Illinois, is the not-for-profit national association of the 39 independent Delta Dental companies. Through these companies, Delta Dental is the nation's largest provider of dental insurance, covering more than 80 million Americans, and offering the country's largest dental network with approximately 156,000 participating dentists. In 2018, Delta Dental companies provided approximately $79 million in direct and in-kind community outreach support to improve the oral health of adults, children and infants in local communities across the country. For more information, visit: deltadental.com.

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About the Delta Dental Institute
The Delta Dental Institute is putting a new spotlight on oral health through its dedication to advancing America's oral health in partnership with Delta Dental member companies and other leading partners across the country. With expertise rooted in Delta Dental's rich history of oral health leadership, the Delta Dental Institute engages in and supports oral health research, community outreach, and advocacy, striving to ensure all Americans can have the healthy smile they deserve and live their healthiest lives. For more information, visit: deltadentalinstitute.com.

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About World Oral Health Day
World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is celebrated globally every year on March 20.  It is organized by FDI World Dental Federation and is the largest global awareness campaign on oral health.

WOHD spreads messages about good oral hygiene practices to adults and children alike and demonstrates the importance of optimal oral health in maintaining general health and well-being.

About the survey
The Delta Dental Plans Association Adult Oral Health & Well-Being Survey was conducted between December 30, 2019 and January 11, 2020 among 1,055 nationally representative Americans ages 18+, with a margin of error of +/-3.02%.

SOURCE Delta Dental Plans Association