If there’s a little pink on the bristles after you brush your teeth, take notice. This can be one of the first signs of gum disease.

Gums to Heart to Gut

Gingivitis and its advanced neighbor, periodontis, are caused by infection in the gums. If left unchecked, chronic gum disease can ruin your teeth – and perhaps more.

Bacteria, particularly in oral spaces, is a window to more serious health conditions. In fact, patients are often required to see a dentist before undergoing heart and other surgeries.

In addition, a Michigan Medicine study has linked oral bacteria to Irritable Bowel Disease, or IBD.

Healthy Gums How-to

The best way to keep your gums healthy is to follow a daily oral health regimen and visit your dentist regularly.

Dental Plans for a Mighty Mouth

U-M offers three dental plan options through Delta Dental. Each has its advantages, depending on your family's needs. View an overview of each plan. 

All plans cover the following preventive and diagnostic services:

• Oral exams and cleaning
• Emergency treatment
• X-rays
• Non-surgical treatment for gum disease

After you’ve enrolled, you won’t receive an identification card. Your dental insurance ID is the eight-digit UMID number on your Mcard.

Enroll Newbies Before First Checkup

Open Enrollment for U-M benefits is Oct. 17-28. During this time, you can enroll in or change your health, vision and dental benefits, and enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), if you're eligible. Selections will be effective Jan. 1, 2023.

Reminder: If you have a small child, don’t forget to enroll them in your dental plan. This must happen prior to their first appointment or unplanned situation for the coverage to be applicable.