Short answer: Poor oral health is linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes complications, and pregnancy risks, so preventive dental care can support whole-body health, a key reason employers offer dental benefits.
Research consistently links oral health to systemic health: untreated gum disease and infection are associated with cardiovascular disease, poorer diabetes control, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Routine cleanings and exams catch problems early and can reduce downstream medical costs, which is one reason many employers add dental coverage to their benefits package. Most dental plans cover preventive care (cleanings, exams) at or near 100%.