Individuals with dental insurance have reported seeing how it can benefit them physically, mentally, and financially, according to the Delta Dental Plans Association "2025 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report" dated December 8.
Recognizing these benefits, adults with dental insurance were significantly more likely to visit the dentist for preventive care in 2024 (67%) than those without coverage (28%), according to the report that analyzed consumer opinions and behaviors.
“Ensuring broader access to dental coverage can help more individuals maintain optimal oral health, as it plays a crucial role in fostering routine oral health care, making preventive dental visits more accessible, and reducing financial barriers to care,” according to the report.
The association, which is the nonprofit for the 39 independent Delta Dental companies, commissioned a third-party market research firm, Material Holdings LLC, to undertake research to create the report. The research was gathered via online surveys from 1,000 U.S. adults in January 2025.
Additionally, 86% of adults reported that dental insurance is necessary to protect both oral and overall health, and 85% said it encourages them to have better oral health habits, according to the report.
Furthermore, adults reported seeing how good oral health supported mental health, with 86% reporting that dental insurance prevented unnecessary worries about future dental emergencies. Also, 85% of adults reported that dental insurance provided overall peace of mind, according to the report.
Finally, adults reported that maintaining good oral health fostered financial well-being, with 84% reporting that they believed dental insurance helped save money in the long run. Prenegotiated discounts on dental services also are appreciated by 77%, according to the report.
