According to Blue Cross Blue Shield Health of America, serious dental health conditions like root canal, periodontal disease and gingivitis often coincide with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, anemia and other health conditions along with higher overall healthcare cost.
About 3.7 million BCBS members had a serious dental or gum condition in 2016, including root canals, tooth loss, tooth and mouth infections, and gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis). Members with a serious gum or dental condition spend 2 times more annually on overall healthcare costs.
Poor oral health can affect you long-term. Members diagnosed with dental and gum conditions are 25 percent more likely to suffer from heart disease, 2 times as likely to visit the ER or have a hospital stay, and are likely to suffer from autoimmune disorders, anemia, gastro-intestinal disorders or renal disease. A serious dental or gum condition may lead to a loss of 1.7 years of healthy life.
*Source: BCBS Health Index 2016, only includes dental conditions identified through medical claims.
**For more information, see: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/index.html; https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/heart-disease-and-oral-health
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