June Is Oral Health Month - How Will You Celebrate?
Consider taking one small step for a healthier mouth. Here are a few ideas:

  1. Commit to brush twice daily and floss regularly. Tips on brushing and flossing here.
  2. Still in need of a regular dentist? Search for a dentist here.
  3. Not sure what benefits you have? Check your benefit grid here. 
  4. Make a pact to eat food that is good for your teeth. Tips on healthy eats here.
Afraid to Go to the Dentist?
If you fear going to the dentist, this is nothing to be embarrassed about. More than 50% of American adults are anxious about visiting the dentist and between 9-20% avoid going to the dentist altogether (1). Fear of needles, the sound of the drill, and the fear of experiencing pain are some of the reasons why people develop anxiety or a phobia of dental visits.

Fortunately, partnering with the team at your dental office along with taking other actions can make your dental visit more manageable, and the first step is identifying where you stand with your dental avoidance.

Here are three steps you can take to start to overcome your anxiety or fear:

  1. Communicate your fears:  Let your dental team know ahead of time that you have dental fear. This will help them make the right accommodations for you before and during your appointment.
  2. Take breaks: If you need to take a break during your cleaning or dental procedure, don’t be afraid to speak up. Consider working with your dentist to establish a signal you can use when you need to catch your breath.
  3. Use distractions: Taking your mind off dental procedures can help alleviate your anxiety. Ask your dentist if they can play music. Or bring headphones so you can listen to your own music. If the sound of the drill makes you nervous, noise-cancelling headphones or ear buds are a good solution.

Read more about Dental Anxiety and Dental Phobia including more steps you can take to help make your visit to the dentist less stressful here.
More Oral Health Heroes Announced
In the spirit of Oral Health Month, the Connecticut Dental Health Partnership has announced three new Oral Health Heroes.

These three heroes join a distinguished group of dental practitioners, oral health advocates and community partners who are committed to exemplary oral health for Connecticut HUSKY Health members. Help us congratulate our new heroes!

  • Harvey L. Frydman
  • Amy D. Gagliardi IBCLC, RLC
  • Helene Strazza, DMD
Need to find a dentist, make an appointment,
or learn more about your benefits? 
Visit www.ctdhp.org or call us at
855-CT-DENTAL (855-283-3682)

Translation and transportation services available. Hearing impaired clients,
please dial 711 for Relay Connecticut assistance.

We Care About Your Dental Health
Have you moved, changed your phone number or email? Need to update your contact information? HUSKY A, B, and D Members can make updates: www.accesshealthct.com or
1-855-805-4325; HUSKY C Members can make updates: www.mydss.ct.gov or 1-855-626-6632.
The Connecticut Dental Health Partnership's mission is to enable all HUSKY Health members to achieve and maintain good oral health. We work to ensure all members have equitable access to oral health services.