Delta Dental Fund offered relief to some Coloradans

Fund helped over 2,000 people with their dental care

POSTED: 12:00 AM MST Mar 05, 2013    UPDATED: 11:28 AM MDT Mar 11, 2013 
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -

Having a healthy smile is important to most people, but sometimes the cost of dental care can be challenging. In the past year, one fund made it easier for Colorado families to afford.  

New research shows Coloradans took advantage of the Delta Dental Fund last year. It gave 2 million dollars worth of oral health to more than 2,000 Coloradans, who in the past rarely saw a dentist.

Grand Junction Dentist John Wood said it is important to have regular dental visits to avoid tooth pain that could develop in the future, "Between insurance availability and also the economy. And where the economy is right now. if there economy weren't as down where it is, we would probably see more patients.

Most Coloradans used the money to fund treatments like fillings and tooth extractions. According to the 2011-2012 Children's Oral Health Basic Screening Survey, the fund greatly impacted children. Over 16,000 kids were treated for tooth decay, saving them a lot of tooth aches before they reach adulthood.

Dr. Wood also said that overall Colorado has a pretty good dental IQ. This means hopefully he' will have more new visits in the future.