On January 1, 2007, Delta Dental began offering dental coverage for enrollees with certain high-risk medical conditions. Please check with your human resources department about this new benefit.

We are adding this coverage based on scientific evidence that treating and preventing oral disease in these situations can improve overall health.

Those eligible for this coverage include:

• People with diabetes and periodontal (gum) disease

• Pregnant women who have periodontal (gum) disease

• People with kidney failure or who are undergoing dialysis

• People with suppressed immune systems due to chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment, HIV positive status, organ transplant, and/or stem cell (bone marrow) transplant.

The improved benefits include coverage of up to four teeth cleanings (either routine cleanings or periodontal maintenance cleanings) per benefit year instead of the typical two. The routine cleanings will be covered at the same copayment level as other preventive services. The periodontal maintenance cleanings will be covered at the same percentage as other periodontal services, unless your group’s contract covers this service at the preventive level.

In addition, for people undergoing head and neck radiation, fluoride applications by your dentist will also be covered twice per benefit year. (This service typically is covered only to age 19.) Note: If you are having this type of radiation, you may also want to ask your dentist if prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste would help you. This product often is covered by medical/prescription drug benefit plans.

The costs of the additional cleanings and fluoride treatments will be applied to your annual maximum. Keep in mind that the timing of treatment is very important when serious medical conditions exist. Talk with your dentist and physician about when and if treatment is right for you.