A new dental benefits program demonstrates how minimally invasive care can reduce the need to drill teeth

An enhanced benefits program from Delta Dental of Massachusetts shows that not only do 94% of patients choose minimally invasive care when offered the option, but also that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment could save teeth from needing invasive, more expensive treatment.
 

BOSTON – June 4, 2025 – Delta Dental of Massachusetts (DDMA) today released the results of its Healthy Teeth enhanced benefits program, which successfully demonstrated how offering coverage for preventive, minimally invasive dental care treatments can keep patients healthy and reduce the need to undergo painful and costly drilling. 

In partnership with 42 North Dental, the program offered enhanced dental benefits to adult and pediatric Delta Dental of Massachusetts patients at four locations: Allen Dental Associates, Dynamic Dental, Gentle Dental Braintree and Gentle Dental Quincy.

Over the course of one year, more than 660 DDMA patients chose minimally invasive treatments in lieu of traditional approaches to treating tooth decay, with an average of four treatments per patient. Ninety four percent of patients chose minimally invasive care options when offered. Delta Dental did a 24-month claims analysis covering the year-long program and subsequent twelve months. The analysis showed that 96% of the teeth that received minimally invasive treatments did not get a filling or another restorative procedure on the same tooth within the measurement timeframe. 

Enhanced benefits included coverage for preventive and minimally invasive treatments like fluoride varnish, sealants, hydroxyapatite remineralization medicaments, and Silver Diamine Fluoride for patients diagnosed with early signs of tooth decay, also known as caries or cavities. Where clinically appropriate, patients could choose between these preventive treatments and more traditional approaches like monitoring the lesion, getting a filling, or other restorative treatments –which are typically associated with a high degree of fear and discomfort and are often postponed as a result.  

“At Delta Dental of Massachusetts, we are bringing oral health care in line with how overall health care is treated, with a focus on prevention, quality, value, and early intervention. The Healthy Teeth program validates that both patients and dentists appreciate this approach, and that innovations in minimally invasive care can improve the health of our members while reducing costs,” said Erik Montlack, President of Delta Dental of Massachusetts. “This is just one example of how we can partner with our network of dental providers to educate our members about the importance of preventive dental care, while improving their oral health experience.

“The science behind these minimally invasive treatments is compelling. Products like Silver Diamine Fluoride and hydroxyapatite work at a chemical level to halt or even reverse early-stage tooth decay, preserving natural tooth structure and preventing the need for invasive care,” said Dr. Michael Scialabba, Chief Clinical and Operations Officer at 42 North Dental. “What we consistently heard from all providers in this program was how gratifying it was to deliver non-invasive treatment that avoids drilling, reduces patient anxiety, and still delivers excellent clinical outcomes. It’s a win for patients and for the provider experience.” 

Informed by collaborations like these, in addition to existing robust preventive benefits like cleanings, fluoride varnishes, and others, last year DDMA expanded its coverage of dental sealants, and added benefits for Silver Diamine Fluoride, which are typically covered at no out-of-pocket cost for members to encourage prevention and good oral health.  

Championing the view that a healthy mouth is a critical part of overall health, DDMA continues to evaluate innovations in minimally invasive dental care, dental technology, care affordability, and dental experience as opportunities to continue offering the best dental benefit plan options to employers, associations and individuals in Massachusetts.