FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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 94% of patients choose minimally invasive care when offered—and that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can save teeth from more invasive, costly procedures.
BOSTON — June 4, 2025 — Delta Dental of Massachusetts (DDMA) released results from its Healthy Teeth enhanced benefits program, demonstrating that coverage for preventive, minimally invasive dental care can keep patients healthy while reducing the need for painful and costly drilling.
In partnership with 42 North Dental, the program offered enhanced dental benefits to adult and pediatric DDMA 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 place of traditional approaches to treating tooth decay, averaging four treatments per patient. Ninety-four percent of patients selected minimally invasive care when offered the option. A 24-month claims analysis—covering the year-long program and the subsequent 12 months—found that 96% of teeth receiving minimally invasive treatment did not require a filling or other restorative procedure on the same tooth during the measurement period.
Enhanced benefits included coverage for preventive and minimally invasive treatments such as 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 options and traditional approaches like monitoring lesions, fillings, or other restorative treatments—procedures often associated with fear, discomfort, and delayed care.
“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.”
— Erik Montlack, President, Delta Dental of Massachusetts
“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. Providers consistently shared how gratifying it was to deliver non-invasive treatment that avoids drilling, reduces patient anxiety, and still delivers excellent clinical outcomes.”
— Dr. Michael Scialabba, Chief Clinical and Operations Officer, 42 North Dental
Informed by collaborations like this—and building on existing preventive benefits such as cleanings and fluoride varnishes—DDMA expanded coverage for dental sealants last year and added benefits for silver diamine fluoride. These services are typically covered at no out-of-pocket cost to encourage prevention and support 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, affordability, and patient experience to offer strong dental benefit plan options to employers, associations, and individuals across Massachusetts.
About Delta Dental of Massachusetts
Delta Dental of Massachusetts (www.deltadentalma.com), the largest provider of dental benefits in the state, is a leader in innovative programs that improve the overall health of members, prevent oral disease, and reduce health care costs for employers, groups, and individuals. Headquartered in Charlestown, MA, Delta Dental of Massachusetts, a member of the Delta Dental Plans Association (www.deltadental.com), covers more than 2 million people.
Follow us on X (@DeltaDentalofMA), Facebook (www.facebook.com/DeltaDentalMA), and Instagram (@deltadentalofma).
About 42 North Dental
42 North Dental (42northdental.com) is a leading dental organization supporting 38 practice brands across more than 100 locations. Committed to setting the quality standard in dental care, 42 North Dental operates clinically under principles of quality, safety, and compliance and is rooted in more than 40 years of experience in dentistry.
