As summer winds down and schedules become more predictable, it's a great time to make dental and vision appointments part of your routine. Preventive dental checkups, cleanings and eye exams support oral health, vision and overall well-being.
These visits can also help identify broader health concerns early. Changes in oral tissues may signal conditions such as diabetes or heart disease before more serious symptoms develop. Comprehensive eye exams can reveal early indicators of more than 270 chronic conditions, including diabetes, hypertension and autoimmune disorders.
The value of preventive care is widely recognized. According to Delta Dental's 2026 State of America's Oral Health and Wellness Report, adults believe preventive dental care is the best defense against serious and often costly dental problems. The report also found that adults with dental insurance are twice as likely to receive preventive dental care as those without coverage.
Delta Dental of Missouri offers affordable dental and vision plans for individuals and families. For those seeking additional support, Delta Dental publishes a Dental Care Resource Guide to connect Missourians to free and low-cost dental care providers across the state, including 35 options in Southwest Missouri and more than 150 statewide. Visit DeltaDentalMO.com to explore your options and find care near you.
A preventive visit today can help protect your health tomorrow.
Nevin Mathai, DMD, dental director and expert resource for Delta Dental of Missouri and DeltaVision®
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