Why Offering Dental Benefits Can Boost Productivity and Reduces Absenteeism

It’s no secret that happy, healthy employees are more productive and engaged. But did you know that dental benefits could be a significant factor in achieving those goals? Offering a comprehensive dental package can lead to a happier, healthier workforce — and a more successful business.

This is an important consideration in the broader landscape of employee benefits trends, particularly employee benefits trends in 2024 and beyond. As companies navigate the future of employee benefits, recognizing the value of dental care is essential.

Let’s explore why dental benefits are a smart investment for companies

The connection between oral health and overall well-being

A report from the Department of Health and Human Services shows that employed adults lose more than 164 million hours of work each year due to dental disease or dental visits.

Oral health is more than having a bright smile; it’s linked to overall well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease and infections, according to Mayo Clinic. They can trigger a cascade of health problems, including:

• Pain and discomfort: Untreated toothaches and infections can cause pain, making it difficult to concentrate or function normally at work.
• Increased risk of chronic diseases: Research has linked poor oral health to an increased risk of serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even certain types of cancer, says National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. 
• Mental health impact: American Psychiatric Association reports that chronic oral pain and visible dental problems can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. This can hinder productivity and overall well-being. 

4 key takeaways for employers

Offering dental benefits is not just a perk, it’s a strategic investment in a workforce’s productivity. It’s one of the top employee benefits that can significantly enhance employee health and wellness programs.

Employers may think their only option is to offer dental insurance as part of their employer group health insurance or small business insurance plans, but there’s another option: a dental savings plan. Dental savings plans provide a cost-effective way to access dental care. It can be offered as a supplement or alternative to dental insurance.

With Altogether Dental, employees will enjoy discounts of 15-50% on all dental procedures and don’t have to worry about waiting periods, deductibles or claims. Plus, Altogether Dental’s partnership with Aetna gives employees 260,000+ choices of in-network general and specialty care dentists. It’s an excellent addition to small business employee benefits packages or even mid size business benefit plans.

Here’s how employers can help make sure employees are getting the most out of their dental benefits, whether it’s through Altogether Dental or dental insurance:

• Track ROI: Measure the impact of the dental benefits program by tracking absenteeism rates, productivity levels and employee satisfaction. It’s a way to see the tangible benefits of investing in employee health and benefits. 
• Incentives: Consider offering incentives for employees who regularly use preventive care benefits, such as additional time off or wellness program points.
• Flexible scheduling: Work with local dental providers to offer flexible appointment times that minimize disruption to the workday.
• Integration with wellness programs: Incorporate oral health into overall employee wellness programs to reinforce its importance.