BOSTON, December 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new improved benefits program from Delta Dental of Massachusetts (DDMA), the largest dental insurance carrier in Massachusetts, focused on the performance of saliva-based screenings during oral exams or evaluations for periodontal (gum) disease sees an improvement in scores of over 33% on average for patients returning DDMA. Additionalover 50% of DDMA members who received saliva-based assessments with their routine exam accepted treatment plans for periodontal disease when recommended by their provider.
Over the past 14 months, DDMA has partnered with Smile generation® to offer, for a limited time, saliva-based evaluations at no additional cost to DDMA members participating in dental practices in Massachusetts.
“Early results from this innovative program show that a greater focus on patient-centered care has the potential to change the trajectory of improving oral health and engagement for millions of DDMA members. You can manage what you can measure,” he said. Dr. Linda Vidone, DMD, Vice President of Clinical Management at Delta Dental of Massachusetts. “Through new partnerships like this, we are committed to working with our participating dentists to adopt innovative solutions that improve oral health and overall wellness in Massachusetts.”
With the goal of improving early screening for periodontal disease, this groundbreaking program was designed to increase awareness, provide early education, and enable personalized interventions to prevent disease progression. This is important for patients, as untreated periodontal disease has been associated with worse outcomes in systemic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The saliva assessment measures levels of active matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8), a biomarker that indicates the breakdown of active collagen in the gums. Elevated levels of aMMP-8 may indicate progression of gum disease before visible symptoms appear. A decrease in aMMP-8 level (ie, an improvement in the “score”) indicates less collagen breakdown, which occurs as oral inflammation decreases.
More than 1,600 DDMA members received evaluations based on saliva, with over 400 getting scores more than once. Almost all accepted the assessment when offered and received their score, along with an educational booklet explaining its relation to their health.
“Measurements drive engagement, and engagement drives results,” he said Shawn Fuller, DDS, general dentist and practice owner Shrewsbury Dentistry. “Continuously measuring key wellness indicators and providing patient scores engages patients, builds trust and catalyzes action. This objective measurement also reinforces the dental team’s role as a partner in overall health and increases patient acceptance of the treatment plan.”
The program will continue until the end of 2026 with selected internships participating. DDMA continues to monitor data and evaluate the impact of saliva-based assessments in higher-risk groups, including people with diabetes and people who smoke.
About Delta Dental of Massachusetts
At Delta Dental of Massachusetts, we know that oral health directly affects overall health, and we work toward a system that recognizes and understands that value. That’s why we Empowering Smiles: From Ahh to Z The approach focuses on improving outcomes through prevention, quality, value and innovation. We believe in the power of oral health to transform lives.
We are committed to working with all our partners — members, dentists, employers, community health leaders and others — to drive progress. Together, we’re strengthening a system that works for everyone —from Ah to Z.
Delta Dental proudly provides prevention-focused dental benefits to more than 2.5 million members and more than 3,000 businesses across Massachusetts, offering access to the largest network of dental providers in the state and nationwide.
About Smile Generation
Smile generation® connects patients with trusted Smile Generation dentists who are dedicated to providing an exceptional patient experience and advanced clinical care. Smile Generation also provides affordable options for patients and education about The Mouth-Body Connection®). The Smile Generation network spans over 1,000 dental offices in 24 states. Smile Generation’s trusted offices are supported by PDS Health®. For more information, visit smilegeneration.com.
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SOURCE Smile Generation
