Oral and Overall Health
The Health Connection
It all starts with your smile.
Your oral health is vital for your overall wellbeing. Since your mouth serves as a gateway to your body, maintaining good oral health can have surprising positive effects on other areas of your health. Let's explore how oral health and overall wellness are interconnected.
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Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Remember, prevention goes beyond just your home habits.
Diabetes
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Diabetes
The elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can create an environment conducive to increased risk of infection and inflammation in the gums.
Heart Disease
Heart Disease
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, individuals with gum disease face nearly double the risk of heart disease compared to those with healthy gums.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy
The hormonal changes of pregnancy tend to increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Moreover, studies have suggested a potential link between maternal periodontal health and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Kidney Disease
Anxiety
Anxiety and stress can lead to teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene, which increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Anxiety
Kidney Disease
There are links between kidney disease and oral health problems including gum disease and tooth loss.
Make sure to see your dentist regularly and utilize your preventive dental benefits.
Your mouth is talking, are you listening?
Our mouths offer valuable insights into our overall well-being. For more information on the overall health connection and your needs, be sure to talk with your dentist. Looking for a dentist? Use our Find a Dentist tool.
Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Have a question? We’re happy to help.
Simply send us a text, chat with us, or give us a call. Our Contact Center is open M-F from 6am to 5pm PT.
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Call: 1-844-466-8847
Text: 1-833-604-1246
Text: 1-833-604-1246
That is why Delta Dental offers the TotalHealth wellness program
If you are diagnosed as having one or more qualifying medical conditions you are eligible to receive additional cleaning benefits.
(an additional diagnosis benefit).
Enroll in 3 easy steps
1
Log into your free MySmile member account.
Complete the TotalHealth wellness program form to report any qualifying conditions.
2
Schedule your next dentist appointment and get the most of the additional benefits.
3
Enroll today
Enroll Today
The connection between oral health and kidney disease.
Kidney disease can weaken gums, making them more likely to get infections and inflammation. Poor oral health can also make kidney problems worse, so keeping gums and teeth healthy is important. Regular dental care helps reduce infection risks and supports overall health for people with kidney disease.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the mostof your additional benefits.
Tell your dentist about your kidney condition to help them provide care that reduces infection risk.
Bring a list of medications you take since some kidney medicines may affect dental treatment.
Schedule regular cleanings to help keep gums healthy, as kidney disease can make gums more prone to issues.
"I want to inform you that I have kidney disease. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
Kidney disease can be linked to gum problems. Extra dental cleanings can lower risks of infection in your mouth that may affect your heart.
How extra services can help
Members with kidney disease may be eligible for extra cleanings and inflammation care.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having kidney disease may qualify for an additional cleaning, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
The connection between oral health and pregnancy.
The relationship between oral health and pregnancy is a critical consideration for maternal well-being and fetal development. If you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant, it’s crucial you maintain great oral hygiene by scheduling regular checkups and preventive care visits with your dentist.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the mostof your additional benefits.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Inform your dentist that you are pregnant so they can monitor any gum changes.
Book a cleaning in your second trimester since it’s often the best time for dental care during pregnancy.
Ask your dentist about gentle care options if your gums feel sore or swollen.
"Just a heads up,
I am pregnant. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
The hormonal changes of pregnancy tend to increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
How extra services can help
Members who are pregnant may be eligible for extra cleanings and periodontal treatment.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports being pregnant may qualify for additional cleanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
The connection between oral health and cancer.
Cancer and its treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, can impact oral health by making gums sore and dry mouth more common. This can lead to a higher risk of infections and tooth problems. Regular dental visits and special care can help keep your mouth healthier during and after cancer treatment.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Let your dentist know about your cancer treatment so they can adjust your care for sensitive gums.
Stay hydrated before and after visits to help reduce dry mouth, which is common with some treatments.
Ask about gentle cleaning options if your gums feel sore or tender during cancer treatment.
"I want to inform you that I have cancer. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the mostof your additional benefits.
Cancer treatments can make gums sensitive. Extra cleanings keep your mouth healthier and may reduce discomfort.
How extra services can help
Members with cancer may be eligible for extra cleanings and periodontal treatment.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having cancer may qualify for leanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
The connection between oral health and heart disease.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, individuals with gum disease face nearly double the risk of heart disease compared to those with healthy gums. Moreover, gum infection is more commonly found in individuals who experience a specific type of stroke.
“Gum Disease and Heart Disease.” American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/heart_disease Accessed 2013.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the mostof your additional benefits.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Tell your dentist about your heart condition so they can use extra care to avoid infection.
Keep a list of any medications you take for your heart and share it with your dentist for safe treatment.
Take deep breaths and try to relax during your visit since stress can sometimes affect your heart.
"I want to inform you that I have heart disease. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
Heart disease can be linked to gum problems. Extra dental cleanings can lower risks of infection in your mouth that may affect your heart.
How extra services can help
Members with heart disease may be eligible for extra cleanings and inflammation care.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having heart disease may qualify for an additional cleanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
The connection between oral health and diabetes.
Individuals with diabetes may be more susceptible to oral health issues such as gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth decay. The elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes create an environment conducive to bacterial growth in the mouth. This is often associated with a risk of infection and inflammation in the gums.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the mostof your additional benefits.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Schedule regular checkups to help prevent gum infections, which can be more common with diabetes.
Let your dentist know you have diabetes, so they can watch for gum issues and help keep your mouth healthy.
Inform your dentist about your blood sugar levels so they can provide the best care and understand any risks for healing.
Tips for visiting your dentist
"I want to inform you
I have diabetes. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Diabetes can lead to gum problems, and these extra visits help keep your gums and teeth healthy.
How extra services can help
Members with diabetes may be eligible for extra cleanings and periodontal care.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having diabetes may qualify for additional cleanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Cancer
Pregnancy
Chronic Kidney Disease
Qualifying Conditions
Qualifying Conditions
Covered Dental Benefits
Covered Dental Benefits
Back to Top
Kidney disease can weaken gums, making them more likely to get infections and inflammation. Poor oral health can also make kidney problems worse, so keeping gums and teeth healthy is important. Regular dental care helps reduce infection risks and supports overall health for people with kidney disease.
The connection between oral health and Kidney Disease.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the most of your additional benefits.
Tell your dentist about your kidney condition to help them provide care that reduces infection risk.
Bring a list of medications you take since some kidney medicines may affect dental treatment.
Schedule regular cleanings to help keep gums healthy, as kidney disease can make gums more prone to issues.
"I want to inform you that I have kidney disease. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
Kidney disease can be linked to gum problems. Extra dental cleanings can lower risks of infection in your mouth that may affect your heart.
How extra services can help
Members with kidney disease may be eligible for extra cleanings and inflammation care.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having kidney disease may qualify for an additional cleaning, allowing them to have 4 covered dental cleanings a year.
Enhanced benefits
The relationship between oral health and pregnancy is a critical consideration for maternal well-being and fetal development. If you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant, it’s crucial you maintain great oral hygiene by scheduling regular checkups and preventive care visits. with your dentist.
The connection between oral health and pregnancy.
Enhanced benefits
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard. New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the most of your additional benefits.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Inform your dentist that you are pregnant so they can monitor any gum changes.
Book a cleaning in your second trimester since it’s often the best time for dental care during pregnancy.
Ask your dentist about gentle care options if your gums feel sore or swollen.
Tips for visiting your dentist
"I want to inform you that I am pregnant. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
The hormonal changes of pregnancy tend to increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
How extra services can help
Members who are pregnant may be eligible for extra cleanings and periodontal treatment.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports being pregnant may qualify for an additional cleanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
Cancer and its treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, can impact oral health by making gums sore and dry mouth more common. This can lead to a higher risk of infections and tooth problems. Regular dental visits and special care can help keep your mouth healthier during and after cancer treatment.
The connection between oral health and Cancer.
How extra services can help
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Tips for visiting your dentist
Enhanced benefits
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the most of your additional benefits.
Let your dentist know about your cancer treatment so they can adjust your care for sensitive gums.
Stay hydrated before and after visits to help reduce dry mouth, which is common with some treatments.
Ask about gentle cleaning options if your gums feel sore or tender during cancer treatment.
"I want to inform you that I have cancer. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
Cancer treatments can make gums sensitive. Extra cleanings keep your mouth healthier and may reduce discomfort.
How extra services can help
Members with cancer may be eligible for extra cleanings and periodontal treatment.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having cancer may qualify for leanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, individuals with gum disease face nearly double the risk of heart disease compared to those with healthy gums. Moreover, gum infection is more commonly found in individuals who experience a specific type of stroke.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
How extra services can help
Tips for visiting your dentist
Enhanced benefits
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the mostof your additional benefits.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Tell your dentist about your heart condition so they can use extra care to avoid infection.
Keep a list of any medications you take for your heart and share it with your dentist for safe treatment.
Take deep breaths and try to relax during your visit since stress can sometimes affect your heart.
"I want to inform you that I have heart disease. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Tips for visiting your dentist
Heart disease can be linked to gum problems. Extra dental cleanings can lower risks of infection in your mouth that may affect your heart.
How extra services can help
Enhanced benefits
Members with heart disease may be eligible for extra cleanings and inflammation care.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having heart disease may qualify for an additional cleanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
“Gum Disease and Heart Disease.” American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/heart_disease Accessed 2013.
The connection between oral health and Heart Disease.
Individuals with diabetes may be more susceptible to oral health issues such as gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth decay. The elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes create an environment conducive to bacterial growth in the mouth. This is often associated with a risk of infection and inflammation in the gums.
The connection between oral health and diabetes.
How to enroll in the TotalHealth Wellness Program
Tips for visiting your dentist
How extra services can help
Enhanced benefits
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3!
Log in to your MySmile member dashboard.New to MySmile? Register here.
Report any qualifying medical conditions via the TotalHealth form.
Schedule your next dentist appointment and make the most of your additional benefits.
How to enroll in TotalHealth Wellness Program
Schedule regular checkups to help prevent gum infections, which can be more common with diabetes.
Let your dentist know you have diabetes, so they can watch for gum issues and help keep your mouth healthy.
Inform your dentist about your blood sugar levels so they can provide the best care and understand any risks for healing.
Tips for visiting your dentist
"I want to inform you
I have diabetes. Does that change anything for my treatment?"
Diabetes can lead to gum problems, and these extra visits help keep your gums and teeth healthy.
How extra services can help
Members with diabetes may be eligible for extra cleanings and periodontal care.
Most Delta Dental of Washington plans cover 2 dental cleanings a year. Through the TotalHealth wellness program, a member who reports having diabetes may qualify for additional cleanings, allowing them up to 4 covered dental cleanings in a benefit period.
Enhanced benefits
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Cancer
Pregnancy
Chronic Kidney Disease
1
Log into your free MySmile member account.
Complete the TotalHealth wellness program form to report any qualifying conditions.
2
Find Dentists
Find Digital ID
Kidney Disease
There are links between kidney disease and oral health problems including gum disease and tooth loss.
Kidney Disease
Anxiety
Anxiety
Anxiety and stress can lead to teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene, which increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy
The hormonal changes of pregnancy tend to increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Moreover, studies have suggested a potential link between maternal periodontal health and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Heart Disease
Heart Disease
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, individuals with gum disease face nearly double the risk of heart disease compared to those with healthy gums.
Diabetes
Diabetes
The elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can create an environment conducive to increased risk of infection and inflammation in the gums.
The powerful link between your smile and your health.
Here are different ways oral health is connected to health throughout the whole body. Select one below to learn more.
Kidney Disease
Kidney Disease
There are links between kidney disease and oral health problems including gum disease and tooth loss.
Anxiety
Anxiety
Anxiety and stress can lead to teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene, which increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy
The hormonal changes of pregnancy tend to increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Moreover, studies have suggested a potential link between maternal periodontal health and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Heart Disease
Heart Disease
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, individuals with gum disease face nearly double the risk of heart disease compared to those with healthy gums.
Diabetes
Diabetes
The elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can create an environment conducive to increased risk of infection and inflammation in the gums.
Remember, prevention goes beyond just your home habits.
Make sure to see your dentist regularly and utilize your preventive dental benefits.
Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Find a PPO or Premier dentist >>
Remember, prevention goes beyond just your home habits.
Make sure to see your dentist regularly and utilize your preventive dental benefits.