The start of a new year is the perfect time to refresh your goals — including your dental health. Taking a moment to set oral health resolutions now can lead to brighter, healthier smiles for the rest of the year.

Smile goals made simple

Not sure where to begin? Start with small, achievable goals like brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing daily and swapping sugary snacks for smile-friendly alternatives. If you’ve been putting off a visit to the dentist, now’s the time to schedule that checkup and keep your oral health on track.

The power of preventive care

Routine dental visits aren’t just about keeping teeth clean — they’re your first line of defense against bigger oral health problems. Preventive care helps catch potential issues early, saving you time, discomfort and money, in the long run. Plus, many Delta Dental plans cover preventive services like cleanings, exams and X-rays at little to no cost.

Check your benefits with ease

Wondering what’s covered? Log in to your Delta Dental account to review your benefits and see what’s available. Knowing your coverage can help you plan ahead and make the most of your dental benefits throughout the year.

Let’s make this year the one where your oral health shines as bright as your resolutions. Here’s to a happier, healthier smile in 2025!

Recipe of the month

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tsp olive oil
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 tsp each ground cumin, chili powder and dried oregano
• ¾ tsp salt

• 15 oz. black beans, rinsed
• ¼ cup red enchilada sauce
• ¼ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• ¼ tsp each granulated garlic and pepper

DIRECTIONS:

1. Pierce potatoes with a fork and place on wet paper towels. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then turn potatoes over and microwave for another 5 minutes.
2. While potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic for 3 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, combine cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, granulated garlic and pepper.
4. Combine chicken and half of the spice mixture in a small bowl.
5. Add chicken to skillet and cook until done. Reduce heat to medium. Then add beans, enchilada sauce and remaining spice mixture to skillet. Cook until mixture is heated through, about 3 minutes.
6. Split potatoes lengthwise and fluff with a fork. Divide the mixture evenly over the potatoes. Top with cheese, red onion, jalapeños and your favorite toppings.

“Mouth-friendly recipe: Zucchini Pizza Bites,” Delta Dental of Arizona blog, www.deltadentalazblog. com/zucchini-pizza-bites/. Summer 2024.

Activity of the month

⚔️ Monthly Challenge: Complete this word search in less than 10 minutes.

Share your Smile Story for a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!

This year, we’re dedicating a special section of our monthly oral health newsletter to spotlight the amazing businesses we’re proud to work with — like you.

Share what makes your business unique, where you’re located, what you love about your role and why Delta Dental is your go-to insurance provider.

Your story could be featured in an upcoming eTips newsletter, and as a thank you, we’ll send you a $50 Amazon gift card if your story is selected.