COVID-19 Pandemic’s Prolonged Impact on Preventive Dental Care

Decrease in Preventive Services Raises Concerns About Long-term Oral and Overall Health

A recent study conducted by Delta Dental, titled “Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health care use in the United States through December 2021,” has unveiled a significant decline in the provision of preventive oral health care services in the United States. 

The study, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, underscores the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health care, extending for more than a year beyond the pandemic’s onset.

Direct and Indirect Effects of the Pandemic

The study highlights both direct and indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health care. The direct effects include the temporary closure of dental practices, leading to an interruption in routine care. Such delays in regular preventive and maintenance care have raised concerns about the potential consequences, such as an increase in caries (cavities) and the deterioration of periodontal health.

One of the most alarming findings of the study is the substantial decrease in preventive dental services compared to pre-pandemic levels. This decline is observed across all age groups under 65, indicating a widespread reduction in oral health care. Such a reduction in preventive procedures may lead to an increase in oral health issues over time.

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Stress-related Teeth Grinding

Another noteworthy revelation from the study is the significant increase in the delivery of night guards to adult patients. This could be indicative of a rise in stress-related teeth grinding, a condition known as bruxism. Teeth grinding can lead to cracked or fractured teeth, and the increase in night guard deliveries suggests an association between the pandemic-induced stress and this dental issue.

Joseph Dill, DDS, MBA, chief dental officer at Delta Dental Plans Association and head of dental science at Delta Dental Institute, commented on the study’s implications. Dr. Dill pointed out that the reduction in preventive procedures could lead to adverse long-term effects on oral and overall health, particularly for individuals who require regular preventive and maintenance care. He emphasised the potential exacerbation of other health problems, including an increased risk of stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

The research was conducted by analysing national insurance claims data, comparing data from 2017 to 2019 with data from July 2020 to December 2021, which included 600 million submitted procedure codes. The study team aims to conduct follow-up research to explore national oral health claims data from 2022.

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About the Delta Dental Institute

The Delta Dental Institute is dedicated to advancing oral health for all Americans in collaboration with Delta Dental companies and partners nationwide. Through oral health research, community outreach, and advocacy, the institute strives to ensure that everyone recognizes the significance of oral health in relation to overall health and has access to the care they need.

About Delta Dental Plans Association

Delta Dental Plans Association is a not-for-profit national association comprising 39 independent Delta Dental companies. Collectively, these companies constitute the largest dental benefits provider in the nation, covering over 89 million Americans and featuring a network of approximately 152,000 participating dentists. In the past decade, Delta Dental companies and their foundations have invested over $1.9 billion in efforts to improve the oral and overall health of communities.