New tools to assess dental health risks introduced

Dec. 4, 2007
Assessments are short quizzes designed to identify if an individual is susceptible to a number of conditions including: cavities, tooth decay, periodontal disease and oral cancer.

DES MOINES, Iowa--The Principal Financial Group, the nation's premier provider of employee and voluntary benefits, has added four new ways to identify dental health risks before they become more serious.

In just minutes and at no cost, individuals can visit the Principal Dental Health Edge Web site, complete a dental risk assessment, and find out if they are at risk for things like tooth decay. Tooth decay is one of the most common diseases affecting adults and children in the United States.

"Research shows there is a strong tie between oral health and overall health. We want to give our customers every opportunity to learn about health risks early on to prevent more serious conditions," said Theresa McConeghey, dental product director for The Principal. "The assessments provide a report based on individual answers, which translates to an immediate and clear picture of dental health risks. The result is delivered along with simple tips that could have a big impact on improving dental health."

The assessments are short quizzes designed to identify if an individual is susceptible to a number of conditions including: cavities, tooth decay, periodontal disease and oral cancer.

For example, a quiz focused on children gives parents a chance to better understand their child's risk for cavities or tooth decay. Results are given as low, moderate or high along with specific information parents can use to improve their child's oral health.

These are part of a number of interactive tools designed to help members get the most out of their dental benefits. Through the Principal Dental Health Edge located on www.principal.com, members can access information on procedures, treatment plans, network providers and basic oral health information.

The site includes a cost estimator, which calculates a range of dental costs in a given zip code, and a database of network providers who offer discounted charges and fees.

For more information, visit Principal Financial.