How COVID-19 impacts oral health

read Adult Oral Health, Children's Oral Health, Dental Trends, Lifestyle
See how symptoms of COVID-19 can impact oral health.

The pandemic has given us a lot to consider when it comes to COVID-19 and our health. One aspect that you may not be familiar with is how the novel coronavirus impacts oral health.

Individuals who contract the virus, whether asymptomatic or otherwise, have a lot on their mind without considering their oral health. But there’s a trickle-down effect that can cause tooth damage, and the more you know, the more you can protect your oral and overall health. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control there are quite a few symptoms of COVID-19, but a cough, sore throat, and shortness of breath in particular can lead to oral health issues or exacerbation of existing problems.

A persistent cough can lead to dry mouth, which on its own can seem insignificant. The trouble with this is that the lack of saliva in the mouth serving as a moistening and cleaning agent prevents cavity-causing bacteria from being washed away. This lack of saliva not only makes it easier for food debris to stay lodged in the teeth, but it also makes us more vulnerable to gum disease.

Dry mouth can also lead to a sore throat or make an existing one worse. Most people use cough drops and syrups to alleviate sore throats and coughs. What many don’t stop to consider is what exactly is in their go-to remedy prior to seeking quick relief. Many cough drops and syrups contain sugar to mask the taste of the medicine. Although this makes them tastier, it also introduces an additional avenue for tooth decay into the mix. When left on teeth, sugar can begin to eat away at the enamel, increasing our risk for cavities. 

The good news is that we can mitigate the use of cough drops and syrups by brushing our teeth. If you don’t have time, at least rinse your mouth with water. Many brands produce sugar-free options, which provide the hygiene purpose without the added sugar.

Inhalers are another solution for coughs and shortness of breath. Did you know that failing to clean your mouth after using an inhaler can lead to oral health implications such as oral thrush? Symptoms of oral thrush include an unpleasant taste or even the loss of taste altogether, a burning sensation, redness in your mouth, and even white patches. 

Just like with cough drops and syrups, it’s important to brush your teeth after use an inhaler, or at least rinse your mouth with water. This will help remove any leftover medicine.

While none of these oral health implications are life threatening, they can develop into larger issues if left untreated. If you’re still concerned about your oral health after properly handling a coronavirus situation, reach out to your dentist to discuss your health history and options for treatment.

To find a dentist in your area, click here.

When it comes to dental hygiene awareness, are you smarter than a 5th grader?

read Children's Oral Health, Lifestyle
Pop quiz, hotshot! You might think you know your stuff when it comes to the basics of dental care, so let’s put your dental hygiene awareness to the test. Can you ace these five questions?

Pop quiz! You might think you know your stuff when it comes to the basics of dental care, so let’s put your dental hygiene awareness to the test.

TRUE OR FALSE: OLDER ADULTS CAN STILL GET CAVITIES.

True. In fact, some adults are more prone to oral health issues as they age. Things like the loss of employee benefits and complications with mobility can contribute to this. Certain medications can cause side effects like dry mouth, which increase your risk for tooth decay.

TRUE OR FALSE: PERSISTENT BAD BREATH CAN BE A SIGN OF GUM DISEASE.

True. Periodontal (gum) disease is more prevalent in adults. Frequent bad breath is a symptom of this tissue infection. Gums that are often sore, tender, swollen, or bleed easily are other indicators of a potential issue.

TRUE OR FALSE: LOSING YOUR TEETH IS A NATURAL PART OF AGING.

False. Your teeth CAN last a lifetime if you continue to give them proper care. You know the drill by now: brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and visit the dentist on a regular basis. These are all common rules for having healthy teeth. While the rules are pretty simple, they’re equally important and require commitment.

TRUE OR FALSE: AS LONG AS YOU HAVE NO TOOTHACHES OR MOUTH PAIN, YOUR MOUTH IS HEALTHY.

False. Periodontal disease is considered a painless ailment until it reaches an advanced stage. You may not experience soreness or tenderness from tooth decay until it’s too late to reverse. Don’t wait to feel pain to see the dentist; many issues can be resolved through regular visits to your dentist. Most dental health concerns are cheaper to fix when recognized early.

TRUE OR FALSE: ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSHES ARE A GOOD OPTION FOR PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS OR OTHER ISSUES THAT MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER A TOOTHBRUSH.

True. Not only do electric toothbrushes help reduce plaque by 21% versus manual brushing, but they require minimal arm movement. Talk to your oral health provider to discuss how an electric toothbrush could benefit you.

TRUE OR FALSE: YOU ACED THIS TEST.

Let’s go with true! Whether you crushed this test or learned something along the way, it’s what you take away that matters. Your mouth won’t be any healthier unless you put these tips into action.

Share this with your friends to see how their dental hygiene awareness compares!

Look for more tooth-friendly tips here.

Need to find a dentist? Try out our handy provider search.

Blemish control: Is toothpaste for acne effective?

read Lifestyle
It’s the night before a job interview and you discover a blemish on your nose. You reach for the toothpaste, following the words of an old home remedy. Toothpaste is a key part of your daily oral health routine, but could it also come in handy in a beauty emergency?

It’s the night before a job interview and you discover a blemish on your nose. You reach for the toothpaste, following the words of an old home remedy. Toothpaste is a key part of your daily oral health routine, but could it also come in handy in a beauty emergency?

Here is more information on using toothpaste for acne:

Choose the Right Toothpaste

  1. Avoid gel: Gel-based toothpastes may not be as effective in drying out and shrinking your pimple.
  2. Go natural: Look for natural or organic toothpastes—they contain helpful ingredients like witch hazel, tea tree oil, aloe, or eucalyptus.
  3. Watch the whitening: Toothpastes with polishing or bleaching chemicals can irritate your skin.

Test Your Skin First

One of the reasons toothpaste is known to be a temporary acne cure is because it includes ingredients that are drying agents: baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. But if you have sensitive skin, these ingredients can make the situation worse. Test a small amount on the back of your hand before using toothpaste for acne.

How to Apply Toothpaste for Acne

  1. Wash your hands to avoid spreading more germs to your pores, then wash your face and pat it dry.
  2. Apply a thin layer directly on the pimple. No need to rub it in. *If you feel burning or itching, your toothpaste may not be right for your skin. Rinse it off immediately.
  3. Let it sit overnight, or at least 1-2 hours. 
  4. Rinse your face with cool water and pat dry.

Pro tip: Use a gentle moisturizer on the area to prevent dryness.

Using toothpaste for acne should be a short-term remedy. Eating the right foods and staying hydrated can also help prevent breakouts.

Check out more oral health tips to keep a healthy and happy smile:

What’s the cost of avoiding the dentist?

read Adult Oral Health, Insurance Resources and Dental Benefits
Does the cost of a dental appointment keep you from your cleanings? The real, long-term cost of avoiding the dentist may surprise you.

*Updated May 2023

Does the cost of your biannual cleanings keep you from going to the dentist at least once a year? The real cost of skipping the dentist may be more than you think.

If you’re steering clear of visiting the dentist, you may be impacting more than your mouth.

Dental cleanings have direct ties to your overall health. Skipping them can affect everything from your head to your heart. That means it’s doubly important to brush and floss regularly and keep up with dentist appointments.

Is the potential cost of a cleaning or procedure causing you to avoid the dentist? Avoidance can lead to negative repercussions for your health and your wallet.

Avoiding the dentist impacts more than just your teeth

Skipping dental appointments can lead to oral health problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities. It can also cause many problems to other parts of your body. Check out the graphic below to learn more about the impact on overall health:

Brain
Harmful bacteria in your mouth can make you more susceptible to developing blood clots, increasing the chance of stroke.
What’s the Cost: The average cost of a stroke is $22,000 per hospitalization.

Heart
High levels of inflammation from periodontal disease contribute to heart conditions. Those with gum disease are twice as likely to have a heart attack.
What’s the Cost: The average cost of a heart attack is $760,000.

Lungs
Once dental plaque is in the mouth, it can spread to the lungs and cause pneumonia and bronchitis. Maintaining good oral health can decrease respiratory infections.
What’s the Cost: The average cost of bronchitis is $2,000 per year.

Kidneys
The mouth is a gateway for bacteria. Poor oral health causes infections to progress faster, increasing the workload for your kidneys.
What’s the Cost: Chronic kidney disease costs between $1,700 and $12,700 per year.

Pancreas
When you’re diabetic, your pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to gingivitis and other oral health problems.
What’s the Cost: Diabetes costs $16,752 per year on average.

Financial cost of avoiding the dentist

If you’re worried about the cost of dental procedures, it’s important to note that preventive checkups are generally 100% covered with dental insurance. It costs more to avoid the dentist in the long run because the risk of developing more serious conditions increases the longer you wait. Procedures such as a root canal, dental filling, and others are costly but necessary to keep your mouth and teeth healthy. Attending regular appointments helps prevent serious dental problems from forming.

Regular dental appointments keep your mouth and wallet happy

Avoiding the dentist will cost you. If you or someone you love is anxious about making that next dentist appointment, read up on our tips for easing anxiety.

If it’s the cost of a dentist appointment that keeps you from getting a cleaning, feel free to contact us today to review your Delta Dental coverage. It’s likely your benefits cover the cost of preventive treatment like cleanings. Click here to review your coverage options.

Tooth-friendly post-workout snacks

read Lifestyle
Tray of healthy post workout snacks.

*Updated January 2026

Key takeaways about post-workout snacks:

  • Sugary post-workout snacks can harm your oral health by feeding bacteria that produce enamel-eroding acids, increasing the risk of cavities and decay.
  • Many athletes rely on high-sugar gels, bars, and sports drinks, which may boost performance but come at a cost to their teeth and long-term oral wellness.
  • Tooth-friendly alternatives, like fresh produce, whole grains, nuts, dairy, and water support both recovery and oral health, helping you stay healthy without undoing your hard work.

After an intense workout it’s tempting to reach for a post-workout snack that’s full of sugar or carbs. Don’t do it!

Many popular post-workout snacks are silently harming your body and your smile. Don’t let an unhealthy choice undo your hard work. By choosing tooth-friendly, nutrient-rich, and delicious options, you’re protecting your oral health, fueling recovery, and setting yourself up for long-term wellness.

The problem with post-workout snacks

Many popular post-workout snacks, like gels, energy bars, and sports drinks, are packed with sugar and carbohydrates, both of which can harm your oral health. Frequent sugar intake feeds bacteria in your mouth, leading to acid production. Over time, this acid erodes the protective enamel on your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and decay.

Research published in Medicina highlights the issue: “Frequently, sports diets focus on increasing glycogen stores as well as on additional carbohydrate (CHO) supply during physical strain. A recent study categorized 28% of elite and professional athletes as high sugar consumers, 59% reported the use of energy bars, and 70% noted the use of energy gels.”

Active people and athletes often rely on quick-energy foods to fuel training and performance. But those choices can come at a cost to their smile.

Tooth-friendly post-workout snacks

Put down the bar and choose one of these healthier and tooth-friendly post-workout snacks:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
    • Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables naturally help clean your teeth and gums as you chew. Options like apples, pears, carrots and celery not only promote oral health but also add essential nutrients to your diet.
  • Whole grain crackers
    • Whole grain crackers are less refined than their regular cracker counterparts. Additionally, they offer more fiber. Just make sure to watch out for added sugars. Aim for crackers with seeds for even more nutritional benefits!
  • Raw nuts or seeds
    • Nuts and seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals that support strong, healthy teeth. Cashews, for example, are an excellent source of phosphorus, a key mineral for maintaining teeth and bone strength. Like calcium, phosphorus plays an essential role in building and protecting these structures.
  • Yogurt or cheese
  • Water
    • Instead of reaching for sports drinks filled with sugar, stick to plain water. If you need electrolytes, try adding a sugar-free option to your drink.

Fuel your body with the right post-workout snacks

Working out is a smart move for your overall wellness. Don’t compromise it with a post-workout snack that harms your smile. Choose low- or no-sugar whole foods, and you can feel confident you’re making healthy choices for both your body and your teeth.

Looking for more tooth-friendly options? Check out “Tooth-friendly steak marinade recipe.”

Sugar-free summer drinks

read Lifestyle
Summertime means we’re reaching for something cold and refreshing more often to keep us hydrated. Sometimes, that means grabbing a sports drink, soda, or juice loaded with sugar—but it doesn’t have to.

Summertime means we’re reaching for something cold and refreshing more often to keep us hydrated. Sometimes, that means grabbing a sports drink, soda or juice loaded with sugar—but it doesn’t have to. 

Sipping sugary drinks without moderation can lead to tooth decay, and that will negatively affect our overall health. They also don’t keep us as hydrated as we need to be in the heat.

Here are two recipes for easy summer party drinks that keep the flavor without the added sugar!

Cucumber-Mint Infused Water

Add some flash to your water pitcher by splashing in some cucumber and mint. Cucumbers have impressive health benefits like blood pressure regulation and can kill bacteria that causes bad breath. The popular herb mint helps with digestion and inflammation associated with headaches and migraines. 

Ingredients:

  • 1/3-cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1 cucumber
  • 2 quarts of cold water 

Directions:

  1. Wash and peel the skin from the cucumber.
  2. Slice into thin circles.
  3. Put the water and mint leaves in the pitcher. With a spoon, gently mash and stir to help release flavor. 
  4. Add the cucumber slices.
  5. Stir and chill in refrigerator until cold.  You can strain the water or pour it into glasses and serve as is.  

No Sugar Added Frozen Strawberry Lemonade

Strawberries are known to improve brain function and have a naturally sweet taste. This recipe combines those benefits with monk fruit sweetener, which has no calories and the approval of the Food and Drug Administration as a safe sugar alternative. 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup lemon juice
  • 3 cups fresh strawberries (you can use frozen strawberries with no sugar added)
  • 2 cups cold water
  • Granulated monk fruit sweetener to taste 

Directions:

  1. Wash and cut the tops from the strawberries. Place in blender.
  2. Add liquid ingredients to blender and blend.
  3. Add monk fruit sweetener to taste.
  4. Chill and serve. 

Do cows get dental care? A look into the mouth of a farm animal

read Uncategorized
Healthy smiles are as important to us as they are to our animal friends. Take a peek into the world of farm animal dental care with us.

Healthy smiles are as important to us as they are to our animal friends. We asked an animal sanctuary rescuer, Andrea,  about her experience with farm dental care as the owner of Broken Shovels Farm. Take a peek into the world of farm animal dental care with us!

A SHEEP WITHOUT TEETH

A malnourished mother sheep was rescued and her baby would continuously cry even when at her side. Animals are generally very content when their mom is around, so this was a sign that something was wrong. Andrea investigated and found that there was nothing wrong with the baby’s mouth – but the mother’s mouth only had a single tooth left!

The one tooth wasn’t enough for Mom to chew up grass for proper digestion, resulting in inability to produce milk. This is why the baby was crying. Andrea understands the importance of animal mouth wellness and recognized what was happening. Soft alfalfa, grasses, and other goodies were pelleted into soft, small bites that let Mom break down her food more easily to get the nutrients needed. Within 24 hours of serving the new feed, the sheep was producing milk and feeding her baby.

ANATOMY

Sheep, cows, goats, alpacas, and llamas have specially structured mouths that allow them to get nutrients. These animals are called ruminants. Ruminants are fascinating mammals because they get all the nutrients they need from a plant-based diet.

Image courtesy of Broken Shovels Farm Sanctuary Facebook

Cows, sheep, goats, and alpacas are able to break down grasses using their lower teeth and their dental pad. This pad makes up a stiff surface on top of their mouths and lets them clip grasses into their mouths with efficiency. Imagine how hard it would be to clip grass with human teeth!

By mashing food between their bottom incisors and the dental pad, ruminants create a mushy consistency with their food. The food then moves into their first stomach, which is called the rumen. After moving through their other stomachs, the animal absorbs the nutrients for energy.

Because cows, sheep, and goats are constantly grazing and chewing, their teeth naturally wear down. This is important because ruminants’ teeth never stop growing! This makes sense; unlike us, they graze all day long. Their constantly growing teeth and grazing habits work together to give them a healthy mouth and diet.

ALPACAS WITH TOO MUCH TOOTH

Andrea also rescued two alpacas who hadn’t been fed properly in years. Because of this, they weren’t doing their normal chewing, so their teeth were growing without wearing down. When they were rescued, their teeth had grown so long that they came out of their mouth and poked them in their noses!

Image courtesy of Broken Shovels Farm Sanctuary Facebook

Though it wasn’t dangerous to the alpacas, it was uncomfortable and looked quite alarming. The alpacas are now healthy enough to get oral surgery after a month of thoughtful care. Since they’re properly cared for at the sanctuary, the issue shouldn’t come back.

OLDER ANIMAL DENTAL CARE

If ruminants’ teeth need more love, a veterinarian will come by the farm and do some “floating.” When floating, a vet will use a file or clipper to remove pointed edges and uneven points, which can make it uncomfortable or difficult for the animal to chew. This process may sound excruciating, but they don’t have nerves in their teeth like we do. It’s like going to the nail salon for them!

For the most part, farm animals are herbivores. This has caused them to develop a different mouth structure and digestion system than humans. Since farm animals don’t eat meat, they don’t worry about gingivitis and gum disease like we do.

Animals like goats and cows are becoming more popular as pets. Because of that, it’s more important than ever to know how to keep their mouths and bodies healthy!

4 tips for maintaining oral health in older adults

read Adult Oral Health, Senior Oral Health
For many adults, getting older means they may be faced with unfamiliar oral health concerns. Learn ways to help prevent some of the most common oral health problems in older adults.

*Updated August 2023

For many adults, getting older means they may be faced with unfamiliar oral health concerns. And the population facing these concerns is only getting bigger. By 2060, the U.S. Census Bureau predicts the number of adults 65 and older will reach 98 million. That’s 24% of the US population! As this group grows, more individuals are seeking information about oral health problems in older adults.

Keep reading to learn how to avoid some of the most common issues for an aging mouth.

Solutions for common oral health problems in older adults 

Getting older doesn’t mean you have to deal with more oral health issues. Here are four tips to help prevent some of the most common oral health problems in older adults.

Drink water to prevent cavities

According to a survey from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 96.4% of adults between the ages of 50 and 65 have “caries, missing, or filled permanent teeth.” This percentage is higher than any other age demographic in the survey. One simple lifestyle change that can help prevent cavities and other oral health problems is to drink more water. Not only is water sugar-free, but it also helps keep your teeth clean.

Dehydration can cause your salivary glands to reduce or stop producing saliva. Your mouth relies on saliva to help wash away harmful bacteria. Without enough of it, plaque gets to stick around longer, which can lead to cavities, mouth sores, bad breath, and gum disease.

If your mouth continues to feel dry despite increasing your water intake, it may be caused by prescriptions, disease, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Talk to your dentist and your doctor; they will be happy to work with you to determine the cause of dry mouth. Once you find the cause, special toothpaste, rinses, and sprays can be recommended, as well as medication changes.

Brush and floss daily to prevent gum disease

Gum disease impacts two out of three adults aged 65 and older in the United States. In mild cases gums can become inflamed, swollen, and irritated. This is called gingivitis. The irritated gum tissue begins to pull away from the tooth, and the worse it gets, the less secure your teeth are. Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis, which can lead to bone and tissue loss as well as tooth loss. As it progresses, teeth may start to feel loose or move around in the mouth.

Ongoing studies show that people with gum disease are more likely to have heart attacks, strokes, or other serious health events.

To prevent and even reverse gum disease, it’s important to brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. A good dental hygiene routine helps prevent the buildup of plaque around the gums, which can lead to inflammation. It’s also important to see your dentist around every six months for preventive cleanings.

Quit tobacco and limit alcohol to prevent oral cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, tobacco and excessive alcohol use are the strongest risk factors for oral cancer. This is because tobacco and alcohol are carcinogenic, meaning they have the capability to cause cancer. Most carcinogens, like tobacco and chemicals found in alcohol, work by “interacting with a cell’s DNA to produce mutations.” Quitting tobacco products and cutting down on alcohol consumption can help reduce your risk of developing the disease.

The American Cancer Society predicts that 54,540 people will get oral or oropharyngeal cancer in 2023. Oral cancer can affect your gums, tongue, lips, teeth, throat, tonsils, and other soft tissues in the mouth. In the United States the average age of a person diagnosed with oral cancer is 64.

If you need help quitting, there are local resources available to support you right now.

Older adults need dental insurance

The best way to take care of your oral health as an older adult is to invest in dental insurance. If you don’t have coverage through an employer, there are other affordable options available such as individual plans. Dental insurance makes it easy to see providers for preventive check-ups and can help cover some of the costs for procedures you may need as you age.

The right dental plan is key to maintaining oral health in older adults. Contact us to learn more about the specifics of your coverage.

If you don’t have dental benefits, we can help! Not all plans require you to wait for the next open enrollment period. Find the dental plan that meets your needs today.

How to maintain good oral health when you have arthritis

read Adult Oral Health
Older couple brushing their teeth together.

*Updated September 2026

Key takeaways about maintaining oral health with arthritis:

  • Many people diagnosed with arthritis find it difficult to effectively care for their teeth and gums, putting them at a higher risk of developing oral health diseases like periodontitis (gum disease).
  • A good oral health hygiene routine is possible by choosing tools that are meant to reduce strain on the hands and wrists.
  • People with arthritis should see their dentist routinely to help detect any serious oral health problems before they become severe.

Living with arthritis can make everyday activities more difficult, and oral hygiene is no exception. Tasks like brushing and flossing may require extra effort when you’re dealing with joint pain or reduced mobility.

Fortunately, simple adjustments to your routine can make dental care easier and more effective.

Why is oral health important for people with arthritis?

Good oral health is important for everyone, but it may be especially significant for people living with arthritis. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been linked to a higher risk of periodontal (gum) disease.

In a study published in the Journal of Personalized Medicine, it was found that “periodontitis and increased tooth loss were associated with an increased risk of seropositive RA and that maintaining better oral hygiene through frequent tooth brushing and dental scaling was associated with a decreased risk of RA.”

The connection between arthritis and oral health diseases is a two-way street. While gum disease has not been proven to directly cause arthritis, certain oral bacteria may contribute to the autoimmune and inflammatory processes involved in the condition. Therefore, having gum disease may put you at a higher risk of developing arthritis.

Clearly, maintaining a solid oral health care routine, whether you’re living with arthritis or not, is a vital part of keeping good oral and overall health.

How to maintain good oral health care with arthritis?

Living with arthritis doesn’t mean that good oral hygiene needs to take a back seat. Simple swaps and keeping up with regular dental care can help keep your teeth (and body) healthy.

Use tools designed to make oral care easier

One of the biggest challenges people with arthritis face is cleaning their teeth. This is because gripping and maneuvering a toothbrush or dental floss can be painful. Fortunately, there are many oral care products designed to reduce strain on the hands and wrists.

If you have arthritis that makes it painful to clean your teeth, consider using:

  • Electric toothbrushes that do most of the brushing motion for you
  • Toothbrushes with larger handles for a more comfortable grip
  • Floss picks or water flossers instead of traditional string floss
  • Adaptive grip attachments that can be added to toothbrushes and flossing tools
    • Check out this study where a custom putty toothbrush handle was used to help a patient with arthritis brush more effectively.

These tools can make daily oral hygiene more manageable while helping to clean your teeth properly.

Manage dry mouth symptoms while treating arthritis 

Some medications used to treat arthritis may contribute to dry mouth. Reduced saliva production can increase the risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease because saliva helps wash away bacteria and neutralize acids.

To combat dry mouth while managing arthritis:

  • Drink water throughout the day
  • Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
  • Limit sugary snacks and beverages
  • Avoid tobacco products
  • Ask your dentist about saliva substitutes or moisturizing oral rinses

Schedule regular dental checkups

Routine dental exams and cleanings are essential for preventing oral health problems before they become more serious, especially for those diagnosed with arthritis.

At your checkup, be sure to tell your dentist:

  • What type of arthritis you have
  • Any medications you take
  • Whether you experience jaw pain or limited mobility
  • If brushing and flossing have become difficult

Your dental team can recommend personalized solutions and identify potential issues early, helping you maintain healthier teeth and gums.

Create an oral care routine that works for you

When it comes to a healthy smile, consistency is often more important than perfection. If arthritis symptoms fluctuate from day to day, it’s a good idea to adapt your oral care routine based on how you feel.

Here are some ideas to make an oral hygiene routine easier:

  • Keep oral care supplies within easy reach
  • Brush during times of day when pain and stiffness are less severe
  • Use adaptive devices, like those mentioned above, that reduce strain
  • Setting reminders to maintain a regular routine

Small adjustments throughout the day can make a significant difference in your ability to care for your oral health.

You can have a healthy smile while living with arthritis

Having arthritis doesn’t mean you have to compromise your dental health. By using arthritis-friendly oral care tools, staying hydrated, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can continue to protect your teeth and gums while managing symptoms.

Looking for more tips to take care of your oral health? Check out “4 tips for maintaining oral health in older adults”.

Celebrate Earth Day by going paperless with your explanation of benefits statement

read Dental Trends, Lifestyle
This Earth Day, you can help us make our planet greener one (less) piece of paper at a time by going paperless with your EOB, or Explanation of Benefits.

With Earth Day occurring in April, it’s a great reminder that we can all do something positive for the environment. Here at Delta Dental, we’re trying to make Earth Day an everyday objective – not just a single day or month on the calendar. This Earth Day, you can help us make our planet greener one (less) piece of paper at a time by going paperless with your EOB, or Explanation of Benefits.

If you’re unsure what an EOB is, it’s a communication from us (the benefits carrier) to you, our member. It notifies you that your dental provider has submitted a claim for services you received in their office. This document lets both you and Delta Dental know what the dentist billed, the discount, and amount to be paid by Delta Dental. An EOB allows us to communicate exactly what you are financially responsible for. You should never pay any more or any less than what is stated on the EOB.

If you need a little more help understanding EOBs, we’ve got you covered.

How to go Paperless with your EOB

In order to go to paperless with your EOB, you will need to sign in or create your online member account in our member portal. Once signed in, you’ll find a tab at the top called “Health Resources.” Then you can select to have your EOB sent to you electronically by clicking “Update My Preferences.”

Sign in or register for your online member account.

Get up to speed on your dental insurance. Sign up for an online member account to easily access your plan’s dashboard.

Each year about 3.5 – 7 billion trees are cut down for a variety of uses and reasons, and one of those is making paper. By going paperless with your EOBs, we can work together and make an impact for our planet.

Looking for other ideas on how you can be greener with your oral health, including clever ways to reuse an old toothbrush? Read our article on going green with your dental routine.