As the Dental Director of Delta Dental of Arizona, I am committed to creating greater awareness and understanding around the importance of the oral systemic health connection. That’s why we work with a research firm called Material Holdings, LLC, to survey 300 adults and 300 parents in Arizona. The State of Oral Health in Arizona survey isn’t just about collecting data; it’s a key part of our mission to create a path to better health and wellness by talking more about oral health. We commission this survey to reinforce the connection between oral and overall health.
Raising Awareness
Many people don’t realize the profound impact that oral health has on their overall health. The State of Oral Health in Arizona survey provides us with the information to raise awareness on these connections. For example, poor oral health has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease. When we share these discoveries, we can encourage people to take better care of their teeth every day and to visit their dentist regularly, ensuring greater health, overall.
Advocating For Our Community
The insights we get from this survey help us consider social determinants of health and advocacy opportunities that would open access to oral health services in communities across Arizona. They help us determine how to best support oral health education, disease prevention and food assistance programs through the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation. Additionally, we believe that everyone deserves to lead healthier and we aim to support that, wherever we can. The State of Oral Health in Arizona survey results can also guide us in offering plans and services that meet the needs of our community.
Promoting Preventive Care
Prevention is the key to good oral health and overall well-being. The survey results show that many dental and health issues can be avoided with regular dentist visits and proper oral care. Stopping any progression of dental disease and preventing dental disease all together should be a standard thought when it comes to whole person healthcare. By sharing these findings, we encourage people to take steps to improve overall health outcomes. When people know how important prevention is, they can make choices that lead to healthier lives.
Creating A Culture of Health
Ultimately, our goal is to create a culture where oral health is viewed as an integral part of overall health. The State of Oral Health in Arizona survey helps by encouraging everyone to adopt healthier habits. When individuals, families and communities understand how important oral health is, they are more likely to take better care of their teeth and overall well-being. With this information at hand, we can help create a culture that values and prioritizes oral health as much as other aspects of health. Dental health was once viewed as somewhat of a luxury service. Research supports the absolute necessity of oral care given its role in systemic health.
Conclusion
At Delta Dental of Arizona, we believe that improving oral health is key to the overall well-being of our community. The State of Oral Health in Arizona survey provides important insights that help raise awareness, advocate for our community, promote preventive care and create a culture of health. I am particularly proud of the impact we are making and look forward to continuing our work to promote the importance of oral health.
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