Often left out of many retirees’ futures is employer-funded health and dental benefits. According to the U.S. Census, over 6,000 Americans turn 65 each day, but only about 32% of retirees receive continued health benefits from their employer. Retirees are often left to make benefit decisions on their own in an unfamiliar, ever-changing healthcare environment leading some to forgo dental coverage. But, one thing you shouldn’t retire is good oral health. Neglecting to have dental coverage and regular dental visits after retirement can lead to further complications, which means even more dental visits, extensive procedures and expenses that far outweigh the investment in preventive care.

It is known that good oral health is essential for the overall health of all individuals, especially seniors. It’s important for you to know that the health of your teeth, gums and mouth is in fact connected to your overall health. Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, are more prevalent with age and impact oral health. Regular visits to the dentist can also help in the early detection and management of serious physical illnesses, such as diabetes and oral cancer as the dentist can see signs of many medical conditions in the mouth.

Although many older adults are keeping their teeth due to better dental care, community water fluoridation and an emphasis on prevention, they may also experience an increased risk for oral conditions such as dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease due to their health status and medications. As we get older, we enter a second round of cavity prone years. One common cause of cavities in older adults is dry mouth. Although dry mouth is not a normal part of aging, it is a side-effect in more than 500 medications.

To help keep retirees smiles healthy as they age, Delta Dental of Minnesota offers a seamless option to continue their dental benefits by enrolling in a Delta Dental of Minnesota Individual or Family Dental Plan.

Take Solveig’s word for it! Solveig is a recent retiree living in St. Cloud. She was a Delta Dental customer when she was employed, but after retiring, she lost her dental benefits. To her surprise, she learned about Delta Dental of Minnesota’s Individual and Family Dental Plans that cost as low as $24/month! And she found her new plan to be very similar to the benefits she had previously, so the transition was seamless. Like Solveig, you can count on Delta Dental to be your partner in maintaining your health through oral health by providing quality, affordable dental benefits so you can retire, but not retire your dental coverage. View her video above.