Advocacy

Expanding access

The Delta Dental Institute educates policymakers, raises awareness about the importance of oral health to overall health, and pushes for policy solutions to promote access to affordable oral care.

We believe every American should have access to the oral care they need. That's why we're leading the charge to expand access to oral care across the country. Since 1954, Delta Dental has helped improve the nation's oral health by expanding our dental coverage to over 78 million Americans.

What we stand for

In our efforts to ensure that every American can enjoy a healthy smile, the Delta Dental Institute remains committed to:

  • Emphasizing the importance of oral health as it relates to overall health

  • Expanding access to oral health care

  • Understanding the unique oral health challenges and needs of your community

  • Leveraging our dental coverage expertise to advocate for the highest quality care

  • Advancing oral health by giving back to the communities we serve

Policy spotlight

The Delta Dental Institute applauds the passage of the Action for Dental Health Act of 2018, which is now law.

The Action for Dental Health Act aims to expand access to oral care for more Americans. Specifically, the legislation seeks to help patients establish dental homes, reduce emergency room visits for dental care, and fund critical oral health initiatives that break down barriers that regularly prevent patients from receiving care.

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National highlights

Benefits for children

The majority of Americans support legislation that helps improve access to dental benefits for all children.

Legislation to improve access

Despite differing views around health care policy, people around the country overwhelmingly support legislation that would improve access to dental benefits for all Americans.

Government programs

Nearly 9 in 10 Americans think that dental benefits should be included in government programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

Impact on overall health

There is overwhelming consensus that oral health impacts overall health.

Explore the map

In July 2017, Delta Dental surveyed more than 15,000 Americans, with 300 or more respondents in each state.

 

 

 

 

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@ Copyright 2019 Delta Dental Plans Association. All Rights Reserved. "Delta Dental" refers to the national network of 39 independent Delta Dental companies that provide dental benefits.