Most patients understand the basics of oral hygiene, but new research from Humana suggests important gaps still exist in how people think about oral health and its broader impact to our overall well-being. Misconceptions around stress, prevention and coverage may influence how patients approach care and when they seek it.
For example, 21%1 of dental insurance decision-makers believe stress has no impact on oral health, despite clear links to issues such as teeth grinding and lapses in daily hygiene. Similarly, more than 30%1 of respondents do not recognize fluoride’s role in preventing tooth decay, and 1 in 51 are unaware of the connection between oral health and overall health, including its link to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, among others. Confusion also extends to coverage, with 20%1 of adults reporting that preventive services such as cleanings are not included in their dental plans.
These findings point to a clear opportunity for providers to close this persistent knowledge gap through consistent, accessible education.
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1 “Humana Dental Insurance,” Opinium Research, July 2025
