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https://forms.gle/GGFN8anPfpEK3HM79

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This survey is to gather information for Dental Hygiene Students at Valencia College to help promote oral health. The results of this survey will only be shared with students within the program.

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List of oral health statistic websites in case we need comparisons

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Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors (ASTDD) Data and Oral Health Surveillance Committee contains many resources on oral health data and surveillance.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Oral Health Surveillance System (NOHSS) is designed to monitor the burden of oral disease, the use of the oral health care delivery system, and the status of community water fluoridation on both the national and state level.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Oral Health Data contains state level data for select indicators from the National Oral Health Surveillance System (NOHSS).

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Data Warehouse has data on federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) as well as dental health provider shortage areas (HPSAs).

National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) has national data on dental care access and coverage.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHNES) contains national and statewide data on many oral health indicators including dental care access and dental conditions.

National Oral Health Data Portal includes consolidated datasets on oral health status, attitudes, cost, utilization, and access to care.

Oral Health Florida (OHF) Data Scoreboard provides annual estimates of key oral health indicators.

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Access State Data
Need specific oral health data by state? The National Oral Heath Data Portal combines a multitude of sources in one place, providing easy access to the information you are looking for.

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Association of State & Territorial Dental Directors

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Access State Data Need specific oral health data by state? The National Oral Heath Data Portal combines a multitude of sources in one place, providing easy access to the information you are looking for.

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Importance of dental coverage, how to gain access after being kicked off parents plan, and importance of preventative visits

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Importance of dental coverage, how to gain access after being kicked off parents plan, and importance of preventative visits

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-Basics (oral health)

-Bit on nutrition (cheap, healthy meal options)

-Mental health

CDC -Percent of children ages 5–19 years with untreated dental caries: 13.2% (2015-2018)

CDC - Percent of adults ages 20–44 with untreated dental caries: 25.9% (2015-2018)

CDC - Percent of adults age 65 and older with complete tooth loss: 13.2% (2017-March 2020)

NIH Medline - Almost half, 47.2%, of all adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease.

Gum disease increases with age. 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is more common in men than women. 56.4% vs 38.4%

Smoking can put you at risk for gum problems. In fact, 64.2% of current smokers have gum disease.

PubMed - Study done in 2019 revealed that nearly a third (31.3%) of the 705 surveyed students had a current untreated dental health issue, with the most common barriers reported by these students being cost and lack of time. Daily self-care behaviors (brushing and flossing) were more prevalent in the morning rather than evening hours.

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-Periodontal diseases

-Oral cancer

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Health Care Coverage Options for College Students

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Learn about the health insurance choices for college students in the Health Insurance Marketplace

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Mouth guard statistic for concussion reducing affects and keeping teeth in place/ in tact for biting and overall look

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Key Points

Participating in athletic and recreational activities, particularly collision, contact or high-velocity sports, can place individuals at increased risk of dental trauma or orofacial injury.

Mouthguard use has been shown to reduce the risk of sport-related dental injuries.

The ADA recommends wearing a properly fitted mouthguard to reduce the incidence and severity of oral injury in sporting or recreational activities, particularly activities with significant risk of dental trauma or orofacial injury.

Mouthguards should have adequate retention to provide a resilient, protective surface on the dental arch that is considered to be at highest risk of injury (typically the maxilla), and to offer protection from soft tissue injuries to the lips and cheeks.

The ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention and the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs encourage patient education about the benefit of mouthguard use.

Reviewed by: Prevention Subcommittee, ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention
Last Updated: October 19, 2021

Prepared by: Research Services and Scientific Information, ADA Library & Archives.

Disclaimer Content on the Oral Health Topics section of ADA.org is for informational purposes only. Content is neither intended to nor does it establish a standard of care or the official policy or position of the ADA; and is not a substitute for professional judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. ADA is not responsible for information on external websites linked to this website.

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Properly fitted mouthguards offer the best available protection to reduce the incidence and severity of sports-related dental injuries.

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Located on the second floor of the Health Center, the UCF Dental Center is a state-of-the-art dental facility where quality and affordability are combined in a nurturing, soothing environment. Our focus is on patient education, serving the dental needs of our patients and creating a positive dental experience.

The Dental Center is open to the entire UCF community, including students, faculty and staff regardless of dental insurance coverage. Services include preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental services. Charges are less than in the local community.

For more information, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Dental Insurance

The Dental Center is currently in-network with and will submit insurance claims to the following insurance plans: Cigna Dental DPPO Network and United Healthcare Dental PPO. Claims are not submitted to out-of-network dental plans. Payment for out-of-network services and any out-of-pocket costs are due at the time of service.

SHS Dental Membership Plan

Student Health Services offers a Dental Membership Plan as a viable option for those without conventional dental insurance. Dental Membership Programs are direct primary care agreements between an individual and a dental practice, and they help reduce overall dental costs for members. UCF students can pay an annual membership fee of $300 to receive regular exams, regular cleanings, and x-rays. All other services are provided at the UCF Student discounted rate.

The SHS Dental Membership Plan covers:

Two (2) exams annually

One (1) Limited/Urgent Care/Emergency problem-focused exam

Necessary X-Rays within scope of care (Panoramic, FMX, or Bite Wings)

Two (2) adult healthy mouth cleanings (Adult Prophylaxis or Full Mouth Debridement)

Fluoride treatment at each Adult Prophylaxis appointment

Complimentary manual toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss at each hygiene visit

Access to SHS Smoking Cessation classes

For more information, download the full brochure here

Note: Our Dental Membership Plans are NOT insurance and cannot be used in conjunction with conventional dental insurance or other benefits. Membership is for services normally covered in the scope of General Dentistry, and membership fees must be paid in full before membership benefits may be used. Referrals to Specialists are not covered in treatments. Periodontal Scaling, Perio Maintenance procedures, and Root Planing are not free with membership, though they are provided at reduced rates.

* Closed daily for lunch from 12:30 to 1pm.

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Located on the second floor of the Health Center, the UCF Dental Center is a state-of-the-art dental facility where quality and affordability are combined in a nurturing, soothing environment. Our focus is on patient education, serving the dental needs of our patients and creating a positive dental experience.

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This page is about medical health insurance for US students. Information regarding our dental programs or international student coverage can be found here:

For any questions regarding insurance, billing, and/or payments, please stop by the Business Office located on the first floor of the health center, or call them directly.

For questions about payments, call the cashier's at 407.823.0060.
For questions about insurance or billing, call 407.823.2386.

Patients are financially responsible for all charges incurred at each visit, whether covered by health insurance or not. All out-of-pocket expenses as determined by your health insurer are due at the time of service. Though not required to access our services, the university and Student Health Services strongly encourage all students to carry some form of health insurance coverage.

Your insurance company may determine that some or all of the charges incurred at SHS are not covered by your policy. We recommend reviewing all of your insurance benefits and exclusions before your first visit. Contact your individual insurance company to learn how your policy will work at our facility.

To expedite the insurance billing process, please register or update your insurance PRIOR to your visit with us by completing the Medical Insurance Registration Form so SHS can verify your insurance is active and add the information to your Electronic Health Record. Patients can also complete this process in person by bringing a copy of their insurance card and photo ID to the Insurance window located on the first floor of the Health Center.

By giving us your insurance information, you are authorizing SHS to file a claim with (send a bill to) your in-network insurance company for services rendered. For students using out-of-network benefits, SHS will provide you with the proper documentation, and you will be responsible for self-filing a claim with your insurance company.

UCF Student Health Services primary care providers are in-network participants for Florida Blue (formerly BlueCross/Blue Shield) PPO & Blue Options plans, United Healthcare, AvMED, Aetna, Cigna PPO, and Tricare plans. Please note that we do not accept most HMO plans. Call our Insurance Office at 407.823.1649 for coverage verification. We are not Medicare or Medicaid providers. Therefore, certain services may not be covered under these programs at SHS. Dental and prescription plans vary, please contact the appropriate department regarding insurance participation.

The Dental Center is currently in-network with the following insurance plans: Cigna Dental DPPO Network and United Healthcare Dental PPO. However, if your PPO dental plan provides out-of-network benefits, we will file your claim as a courtesy. No HMO dental plans are accepted at this time. Payment for all services and out-of-pocket costs are due at the time of service.

If you are looking for insurance coverage, UCF endorses a Student Health Insurance Plan, or there are navigators available to help you shop the insurance marketplace.

Student Health Insurance Plan:

Open enrollment for the student insurance plan is held at the beginning of each fall semester. New students starting in either the spring or summer semesters have their own open enrollment period. Contact our Insurance Office at 407.823.1649 for specific deadline dates.

Outside of the open enrollment period, students may only enroll if they:

1. Experience a qualifying life event, such as being dropped from a parent's insurance as a result of age;

2. Lose insurance coverage as a result of a parent or guardian being laid off; or

3. During annual enrollment each Fall.

For more information about this option and enrollment assistance: https://ucf.myahpcare.com/
Open Marketplace Navigation:

If you are uninsured and are seeking guidance shopping on the insurance marketplace, navigators with Covering Central Florida are ready to assist!

Some students may qualify for insurance at "no-cost"

Qualified students may be unsupported grads, recent graduates, students coming out of Medicaid, etc.

Visit https://www.coveringcfl.net/ or call them toll-free at 877-564-5031 (Option 1) to get started

For any questions regarding insurance, billing, and/or payments at UCF Student Health Services, please stop by the Business Office located on the first floor of the health center, or call them directly.

For questions about payments, call the cashier's at 407.823.0060.
For questions about insurance or billing, call 407.823.2386.

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For any questions regarding insurance, billing, and/or payments, please stop by the Business Office located on the first floor of the health center, or call them directly. For questions about payments, call the cashier's at 407.823.0060. For questions about insurance or billing, call 407.823.2386.

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Dental hygiene routines may be the last thing on many college students' minds, but neglecting oral health can have serious consequences to their health.

Maintaining dental health and good daily routines can promote confidence and consistency that can prove useful in other areas of life.

Why college students may forget about dental care

For many students, attending college is among the most exciting times in their lives. In addition to discovering or pursuing a career and educational path, their college journey will likely include meeting new people, gaining life experience, and experiencing a new level of independence.

However, along with these inspiring opportunities, many college students also face unexpected challenges. Each student's path is different, and so is their unique set of circumstances. Some may feel overwhelmed by the pressure of a demanding academic program. Others may feel burdened by financial responsibilities as they try to balance school with work. Many will be experiencing the insecurity of leaving home or their family for the first time and having to navigate day-to-day life on their own.

Students react to these challenges in different and sometimes problematic ways, especially when they don't communicate their issues to others or don't realize there are resources available to them to help them cope. Sometimes, their response to the challenges of college life can be dramatic. They may turn to drinking or substance use, act out socially, or become depressed.

For others, it may be more subtle, such as becoming withdrawn socially, experiencing anxiety or insomnia, or missing home and family. Either way, as they battle these struggles, it can be easy for a student to slip into bad patterns and forget about the important daily routines that will keep them healthy and successful. This includes daily dental hygiene.

Dental problems faced by college students

These are some of the most common issues that exacerbate dental problems with college students:

While most students look forward to and enjoy the newfound freedoms of the college experience, many will struggle to prioritize their day-to-day tasks and routines. In a recent national survey, a vast majority of college students expressed difficulty with time management and organization.

These factors can contribute to a decline in a student's dental care and hygiene.1 Without supervision, students who are struggling with disorganization and an overloaded schedule may begin neglecting their dental routines by reducing their brushing or skipping flossing and missing or skipping regular dentist visits.

The college years have long been romanticized in movies and media as a time of partying, exploration, and self-discovery. Now, there is more awareness about the stress college students also face and its short-term and long-term effects.

This stress can affect the oral health of students in a number of ways, such as these:

Students who are battling with stress may struggle with feelings of anxiety or depression. Their new environment and daily demands may also bring underlying problems, like anxiety or ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), to the forefront.2 All of these issues can make it harder for a student to tackle daily tasks, like an effective dental hygiene routine or the scheduling of regular dentist visits.

Stress can weaken the body's immune system, causing inflammation and lowering the number of white blood cells that help fight off viruses and infections. This can have a significant impact on the student's oral health, as many oral health issues (like gum problems and gum disease) are caused by plaque bacteria that builds up and irritates the gums.A student whose immune system is weakened by stress may be more likely to experience swollen or inflamed gums, which can lead to gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth decay. These bacteria can even travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and respiratory tract.

Stress may cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of gum problems and tooth decay.

Students who are stressed may be more likely to develop the habit of tooth grinding (also called bruxism), which can lead to jaw problems and weakened tooth enamel.

When meeting new people and embarking on their new educational and career journey, especially in the time of online classes and meetings, students may become more aware or even more self-conscious about their smile. Issues like tooth decay or a crooked bite may bother them more. This can affect their confidence and contribute to feelings of insecurity or depression.3

A consistent and effective daily dental care routine can make all the difference in long-term oral health and should include the following:

Brush teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes, using a fluoride anti-cavity toothpaste.

Floss daily with regular floss, floss picks, interdental brushes, or water flossers.

Rinse every day with an antiseptic mouthwash.

Here are some other dental care tips:

Never share a toothbrush even with a close friend or roommate.

Pack a travel dental care bag so you're prepared to care for your smile when you stay at a friend's or visit family.

Change your toothbrush when you notice it's worn, after you've been sick, or every three months.

Find a toothbrush and toothpaste you enjoy using.

Never skip a morning or night brushing.

Try to eat a balanced and nutritious diet. Limit sugary snacks or treats, and make sure to brush or floss if you do indulge in sweets.

Why is good oral health important for college students?

Dental care may seem like a low-priority issue to many college students as they pursue new and exciting educational and social endeavors. However, oral health and daily dental hygiene can have more of an impact on their day-to-day lives than they realize.

Oral health is overall health. Research continues to show a strong connection between oral health and general health, especially with uncontrolled plaque bacteria contributing to inflammation throughout the body.Inflammation is a major factor in many illnesses and chronic health conditions. The plaque-inflammation connection is one reason gum disease is linked to problems like diabetes, stroke, and even heart conditions.

Good dental hygiene reduces overall health costs. Preventative care, like a good daily dental hygiene routine and regular dentist visits, helps to ensure a student doesn't need costly procedures like root canals or dental implants in the future. Preventative care can also lower the risk of stressful and expensive emergency procedures like infections and abscesses.

The power of routine is significant. In times of stress, healthy daily routines have been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and promote good mental health.4 A student can take pride in the fact that they take care of their teeth and are able to maintain a consistent and effective routine. This confidence can translate to other areas of their life as well.

Dental treatment options for college students: affordability & accessibility

For students with limited funds, receiving adequate dental care can be very challenging. Some may not have insurance or the money to cover out-of-pocket costs.

Fortunately, there are resources available to college students seeking affordable care.

Dental schools: A university with a dental department or a dental school usually offers free or low-cost services. The services are usually performed by faculty or a supervised advanced dental student. The American Dental Association offers a searchable directory of dental programs that may offer these services.

Local free and low-cost dental clinics: By calling your local health department, you can find out about low-cost and community dental centers in your area. The federal Bureau of Primary Health Care may also have information about federally funded services available. The United Way may also have resources available.

Student discounts and affordable dentists: Some dentists offer student discounts and more affordable rates. Research local dentist online and call about promotions and discounts.

Campus resources: If you have on-campus dental services available, contact them about discounted rates and payment plans.

For students looking to improve the appearance of their smile, there are also more affordable and accessible options available on the market, including a wide variety of tooth whitening products and convenient at-home teeth aligner kits.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to serve as dental or other professional health advice and is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any condition or symptom. You should consult a dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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Dental Care Among College Students: Stats, Tips & More (Guide) | Byte®

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Learn about the unique challenges faced by college students when it comes to their dental care, why oral health is so important, and how to maintain a consistent and effective daily dental hygiene routine.

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contains propylene glycol which breaks down into acid and leads to dry mouth and tooth decay

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Oral Cancer Information | Mouth Cancer Information

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Here find oral cancer (mouth cancer) and oropharyngeal (middle throat) cancer information, on things like risk factors, symptoms, & how they're found and treated.

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Over 40% of adults who smoke have untreated tooth decay

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tobacco use can cause white lesions on oral cavity such as red dots on palate

white patches on oral mucosa

can also lead to ulcers in mouth

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smoking increases risk of gum recession

higher risk of bone loss which leads to tooth loss

risk of gum inflammation and bleeding

quitting smoking decreases risks of gum disease significantly

those who quit have a similar risk of tooth loss than those who have never smoked

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those who smoke are at a higher risk of having a dental implant failure

this is due to impaired wound healing which is caused by the toxicity of nicotine

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smoking increases risk of salivary stones

these stones block the flow of saliva

they can be very painful and cause swelling

symptoms may continue even after salivary stones are removed

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chemicals found in tobacco, cigarrettes, and vapes are carcinogenic

this means they have the potential of causing cancer

these chemicals cause genetic changes in the cells of the mouth which leads to cancer

oral cancer risk decreases by 35% after 1-4 years of quitting smoking and it decreases by 80% after 20 years of quitting

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smoking tobacco or vaping can affect your taste buds by affecting the blood supply that your taste buds receive

this will then alter taste of food

this will also lower taste sensitivity

after quitting, taste sensitivity can return to the same range as non smokers

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See if can find any information on lung health and decrease of O2 in blood which can lead to a decrease in sports performance/ muscle mass ability 

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See if can find any information on lung health and decrease of O2 in blood which can lead to a decrease in sports performance/ muscle mass ability 

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It's that time again! Time to settle in for the semester and really hit the books. But don't let food take a back seat. You need to keep yourself nourished and full of energy to make it through those classes, study sessions, and that part-time job, too.So, I've put together this list of 30 Easy Recipes for College Students to help you get through the semester without coming out the other side feeling like a casualty!

I know it's easier to just stop and grab some fast food, but taking a few minutes to prepare a homemade meal can be both nutritious and therapeutic. Take the time to take care of yourself this semester!
Originally Posted 8-23-2014, updated 8-17-18.
30 Easy Recipes for College Students

And just as a side note, these are recipes for college students who have access to a kitchen, even if a very limited kitchen. With all the restrictions on equipment allowed in dorm rooms, dorm room cooking is a whole different beast.

What Makes a Recipe Good for College Students?

I was a broke college student when I started this blog, so this is a category that I am very familiar with. To make the cut for this list of Easy Recipes for College Students, the recipes had to be simple (not many ingredients, no fancy equipment, and a simple preparation method), they had to strike a good balance between comfort and healthy (because let's face it, when you're stressed you want comfort but eating bad can make you feel worse), and they needed to make good leftovers.

I've divided this list into four categories: Easy Dinners, Snack Foods, Make Ahead Meals (including breakfast options), and Cold Meals (perfect for taking with you to school).

Easy Dinners

Curried Chickpeas with Spinach - When the autumn nights start to get a chilly bite, warm up with a hot bowl of these hearty curried chickpeas with spinach. Packed with flavor, this vegan dish is delicious and filling enough to finally bring vegetarians and carnivores together over one meal.

Pork and Peanut Dragon Noodles - The next time you're tempted to grab take out, try this incredibly simple noodle stir fry. It will satisfy those take out cravings, but you'll have complete control over the ingredients. Add some simple steamed greens to round out the meal! (Or try the original, vegetarian version of Dragon Noodles)

One Pot Chili Pasta - This One Pot Chili Pasta is total comfort food, but with all the goodness of beans and no-mystery ingredients like you get with boxed hamburger meals. And I promise, this is SO EASY with just one pot to wash afterward. ;) Oh, and this makes great leftovers, so you're set for the week! (Here is my vegetarian version, Cheesy Vegetarian Chili Mac)

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry - Grab a bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots), and this meal is insanely fast and easy to make. Better yet, it's full of fiber and protein, so you can help curb that freshman 15. ;) (Feel free to use ground pork, turkey, or chicken in place of the Beef, if preferred.)

Bowties and Broccoli - This has been my go-to "emergency meal" for decades. Literally. There's nothing more satisfying than pasta with a little butter and Parmesan, and I add broccoli florets to balance things out, plus a little pepper and red pepper flakes for kicks. Insanely easy and all of the ingredients can be kept on hand pretty much indefinitely, so it's ready to go whenever you need something FAST.

Poor Man's Burrito Bowls - We all know burrito bowls are life (thanks, Chipotle!), but they don't have to be fancy to be super delicious or satisfying. This is my pared down, no frills, as-simple-as-it-gets version of a burrito bowl because when you're in college, ain't nobody got time or money for all those fancy toppings! Bonus: you can meal prep these!

Creamy Tuna Pasta with Peas and Parmesan - Are you feeling homesick? This comfy pasta will remind you of home and those boxed pasta meals mom used to make, but it's all simple ingredients that you can feel good about. This one is for those weekend that you can't get home to see your mom (but sorry, I can't help with your laundry).

Weeknight Black Bean Chili - I call this one "weeknight" black bean chili because it's a super fast and easy version of chili. No need to let this one simmer on the stove top all day for maximum flavor. Throw this warm and hearty chili on the stove for your tailgating parties, or just when you need something to keep you warm and full as you study.

Dragon Noodles - And of course this list wouldn't be complete without the classic Dragon Noodles. They're faster than take-out, super delicious, and completely customizable. Throw in any vegetables you might in have in the fridge, or try changing up the sauce with a little peanut butter or lime. Browse through the comments to discover all the variations readers have made over the years!

One Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese - If you think homemade mac and cheese is complicated, think again. This version uses ONE POT and comes together quickly without having to make a roux-based cheese sauce. Check out the plain (no bacon or broccoli) version here: Will It Skillet Mac and Cheese (it can be made in a pot instead of a skillet)

Snack Foods

Hearty Black Bean Quesadillas - Quesadillas are the perfect snack (just ask Taco Bell). This spicy vegetarian mix of black beans, corn, onion, and cheese is 100x better than anything you'll get at the drive through. More flavor, more fiber, more filling, and still extremely easy. Promise.

Spinach Feta Grilled Cheese - Grilled cheese is the ultimate study/comfort food. Take it up a level with some frozen spinach, a little garlic, red pepper flakes, and feta. You now have a super fancy grilled cheese AND a good dose of vegetables. WIN.

Pizzadillas - When you have a pizza craving (when do you not have a pizza craving??) but don't have the time or energy to make a homemade pizza yourself, pizzadillas are you quick and easy answer! Plus, without all that thick buttery crust, they're probably a little more healthy, too. ;) No delivery fee for the win!!

Pizza Roll Ups - OR make your pizza in roll up form. It's still way faster and easier than making traditional pizza, and a LOT less expensive than ordering delivery. These are great for football parties, too!

Caramelized Banana and Peanut Butter "Quesadillas" - If you have a sweet tooth, this is the PERFECT quick snack! Creamy peanut butter and caramelized banana slices make the perfect sweet and warm gooey filling for a crispy tortilla. YUM.

Ultimate BBQ Chicken Quesadillas - These are SO GOOD you guys! Plus you can make a batch ahead and stash them in your freezer. Then just warm them slowly in a skillet over low flame until they defrost and heat through, and the tortilla gets nice and crispy!

Homemade Freezer Garlic Bread - Put down that box of frozen garlic bread! It's far too easy and inexpensive to make your own! Keep these garlic bread slices in your freezer and on hand for anytime that you get a craving. They also make a pretty killer grilled cheese sandwich, too. Talk about study fuel!

Creamy Black Bean Taquitos - Why is food so much better when you can dip it? I don't know, but it's true. These cute little vegetarian Creamy Black Bean Taquitos are the perfect snack for studying with their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling. MMmmmmm.

Make Ahead Meals

Golden Milk Overnight Oats - Golden milk lattes are probably the hottest drink at that trendy cafe on the edge of campus, but you don't need to spend $4.50 to get the health benefits of golden milk. Make it a meal by soaking your oats in the delicious golden milk overnight, so you have pre-made breakfasts to grab and go all week!

Make Ahead Microwave Breakfast Scrambles - If savory breakfasts are more your jam, try these make-ahead egg scrambles. The ingredients are customizable and all you have to do is add an egg, stir, and microwave each morning. Super fast and easy!

No Sugar Added Apple Pie Overnight Oats - This is another great make-ahead breakfast option that can easily be made vegan by using almond or soy milk. You won't believe how much this tastes like apple pie, even without ANY added sugar!!

Make Ahead Bean and Cheese Burritos - Stock your fridge or freezer with these simple burritos and you WON'T be sorry. It's such a relief to be able to just grab and reheat a burrito when you're starving and homemade are way better than those sad little guys you buy in the freezer section of the grocery store.

Freezer Ready Mini Pizzas - Speaking of store bought convenience food, you can make your own little freezer snack pizzas, too! to avoid having to buy a million topping ingredients, hit your local salad bar to grab just a handful of each topping. ;)

5-Ingredient Freezer Biscuits - Okay, let's be real. On Saturday morning when you have a hangover and you just want some comfort food without the work, you can grab a few of these biscuits out of the freezer, pop them in the oven, and have fresh, fluffy biscuits in just a few minutes. You can thank me later.

Easiest Burrito Bowl Meal Prep - I never get tired of burrito bowls, and thankfully they are just made for meal prepping. You can make a few for the week ahead, or stash them in the freezer for longer storage. Either way, it's just a quick reheat to total burrito bowl bliss.

Cold Meals

Tuna and White Bean Salad - Tons of protein and fiber to keep you full and fueled through a long day of classes! Pack it up with some crackers for dipping, or stuff it into a tortilla to make a wrap, and you're set. Oh, and NO MAYO. ;)

Spinach, Chickpea and Quinoa Salad - This amazing salad is packed with all the healthies, is hearty enough to act as a full meal, and somehow manages to hold up in the fridge without getting too wilty. It's a total winner!

Curried Tofu Salad - Super simple prep, and it holds up in the fridge for days! You can serve it over a bed of greens as a salad, or make it a wrap by stuffing it into a tortilla. So fresh and light, it won't make you groggy in those afternoon classes. ;)

Quinoa Tabbouleh - This is another great multi-purpose salad that you can make in the beginning of the week and serve several different ways over the next few days, so you don't get tired of it! Stuff it into a pita, add some grilled chicken on top, or just serve it on its own. However you eat it, it's so yummy you aren't likely to get tired of it before you hit the bottom of the bowl.

Make Ahead Kale White Bean and Pesto Salad - Make ahead salads are my savior. This one uses kale, which is not only a nutrient superstar, but also hold up incredibly well in the fridge, and a simple jar of pesto as the "dressing." The pesto also helps soften the kale and make it just that much more yummy!
Also check out my Meal Prep archives for plenty of ideas for packed lunches!
So there you have it, my top 30 Easy Recipes for College Students. What was/is your favorite recipes to help you get through the semester? Share in the comments below!

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It's that time again! Time to settle in for the semester and really hit the books. But don't let food take a back seat. You need to keep yourself nourished and full of energy to make it through those classes, study sessions, and that part-time job, too.So, I've put together this list of 30 Easy Recipes for College Students to help you get through the semester without coming out the other side feeling like a casualty!

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Healthy People info on oral cancer

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Oral and pharyngeal cancers affect areas like the lips, cheeks, gums, throat, and tongue. When these cancers are diagnosed early, they're easier to treat - but most people with oral and pharyngeal cancers aren't diagnosed in the earliest stage. Screening for these cancers at every dental visit can lead to earlier diagnosis, especially in people at higher risk because of alcohol or tobacco use and certain types of viral infections.

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Increase the proportion of oral and pharyngeal cancers detected at the earliest stage - OH‑07

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Oral and pharyngeal cancers affect areas like the lips, cheeks, gums, throat, and tongue. When these cancers are diagnosed early, they're easier to treat - but most people with oral and pharyngeal cancers aren't diagnosed in the earliest stage.

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Healthy People info on people who had to put off dental care when needed due to lack of insurance

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Delaying dental care can cause serious oral health problems. Reasons for delaying or not getting dental care include high costs, lack of insurance or access to services, and fear and anxiety. Interventions to increase dental insurance coverage rates, reduce dental care anxiety, and strengthen the oral health workforce are important for helping people get dental care.

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health care access and qualityhealth care

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Reduce the proportion of people who can’t get the dental care they need when they need it — Data - Healthy People 2030 | health.gov

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Delaying dental care can cause serious oral health problems. Reasons for delaying or not getting dental care include high costs, lack of insurance or access to services, and fear and anxiety. Interventions to increase dental insurance coverage rates, reduce dental care anxiety, and strengthen the oral health workforce are important for helping people get dental care.

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Finding the right dental insurance for college students can be a complicated process. Most students are on a strict budget, and many aren't aware of all of the options out there - don't forget that if you are under 26, you may still be able to use your parents' insurance!

The best dental insurance for college students will depend on your specific budget and needs. Some college students may even be able to get free dental under Medicaid, depending on their income and which state they live in.

In this article we'll go over the following information:

Best dental insurance plans for college students

Dental insurance for international students in the US

Where to get dental insurance for college students

...and a brief refresh of how dental insurance works at the end!

We hope this information helps you find the best plan for your needs so you can focus on getting that degree.

Best dental insurance for college students

There are a variety of student dental insurance plans to choose from - it's really a matter of browsing and finding the right one for your budget and your oral care needs. That being said, have a look at the following plans, all of which have good options for college student dental insurance.

Because quotes vary from state to state and by age, we looked at plans based for Los Angeles, CA, for a 20-year-old individual. Keep in mind that monthly premiums in Los Angeles are generally higher than they would be in a small town in Arkansas, for example (nothing against small towns in Arkansas!)

Humana

Humana dental insurance plans offer plenty of discounts. This is a reliable insurance provider with a wide range of dental plans for students and a network with over 260,000 dentists. There aren't any pre-enrollment costs and you don't need anyone to underwrite you in order to receive coverage.

For example, they offer a Bright Plus PPO plan for $30.52/month. It covers 100% of cleaning costs and 60% of filling costs. There's no waiting period for preventive care and a 90-day waiting period for basic coverage. This plan offers no coverage for major restorative services.

Delta Dental

Delta Dental is one of the best-known dental insurance providers in the US and has a network of over 150,000 dentists. There are plenty of options for dental insurance for students on a budget, they even offer dental insurance for college students who are attending specific universities. To determine if you can get a lower-priced dental plan with Delta Dental, contact your university.

One general dental plan offered by Delta Dental is the Dental for Everyone Gold plan. It costs $47.25/month and covers 60% to 100% of cleaning costs, and 50% to 80% of fillings. There is no waiting period for preventive care and a 6-month waiting period for basic care. Major services are also covered under this plan, with a 12-month waiting period.

Ameritas

Ameritas offers dental plans with no waiting periods and coverage that begins the very next day. There are also no enrollment fees, and preventive visits like exams and cleanings have up to 100% coverage. Plus, some of the Ameritas dental plans may come with vision care, orthodontic care and hearing care.

The Hollywood Smile Premier 1500 PPO is just $29.07/month and covers from 80% to 100% of cleanings, and 50% to 80% of fillings. There are no waiting periods for this plan and the maximum is $1,500.

Dental Health Services

The SmartSmile plan is a part of Dental Health Services, an employee-owned dental benefits company that offers dental plans to people living in California, Washington, and Oregon. They aim to bring high-quality and very affordable care to their customers and thus often provide dental plans for college students.

For college students who are really on a budget, the SmartSMile DHMO was created for you. It's just $6.95 per month, with $15 cleanings, $44 fillings and $490 crowns. There aren't any plan maximums or plan waiting periods.

Careington

Careington isn't actually an insurance provider, instead, they offer a dental savings plan (also known as a discount plan). We've included this in our suggestions because a dental discount plan is a great way to get discounted dental care on the treatment you need when you need it.

The Careington 500 Series Dental Savings plan costs just $8.95 per month, with $49 cleanings and fillings starting at $77. There's no plan maximum and no waiting periods with dental discount and savings plans. You can read more about this type of dental service in our dental discount guide.

Comparison of the best dental insurance for students

Have a look at the table below for a summary and comparison of the student dental plans we mentioned above.

*These plans and prices are based on an individual in Los Angeles, CA, born in the year 2000.

If you want to get started browsing student dental insurance plans like the ones in the table above, you can go to DentalInsurance.com. Just enter your zip code and date of birth, and you can use this online marketplace to browse a wide range of plans. You can also call 888-626-0057 to speak to one of their helpful licensed agents.

Additional considerations for student dental insurance

Is there free dental care for college students?

There isn't free dental care necessarily, but there are affordable plans. These plans usually provide coverage for emergencies, and regular checkups, and tend to be the cheapest option.

Additionally, under the affordable care act, college students who are under 26 years of age may receive their dental and health insurance under their parents' plan.

Certain universities may offer plans for their students, or at least have information that can be helpful when looking. If your university offers dental plans, definitely take a look at your options, as these plans will be specifically designed to fit your budget.

A university may also have its own clinic on campus, providing free care to students, although these clinics usually cover reproductive and general health, and not oral health care.

Dental insurance for international students

Just because you are studying away from home doesn't mean you shouldn't continue to get your regular dental checkups or have access to dental care when you need it. Fortunately, there is dental insurance for international students in the USA.

But first, before you start looking for a plan, you should speak with your university, as they likely have resources that will be helpful in your search. They may even provide their own dental care plans for international students.

Before we talk about international student dental insurance, there's also something important we should mention about regular health plan coverage for international students. Regular health insurance plans won't provide full dental coverage, but they might offer the following essential benefits:

Accidental dental: Not only does it roll off the tongue, but accidental dental can also be used to help you cover the costs of tooth repair if your tooth or teeth are damaged in an accident.

Dental pain: Plans for international students may also offer an acute onset of dental pain benefit. This is a limited benefit that covers treatment costs if you experience severe dental pain.

But, if you're looking for more coverage for dental, which is especially a good idea if you plan on spending a longer period of time studying in the US, there is dental insurance for international students in the USA.

As a foreign student on an F1 or F2 visa or a visiting scholar, you can get a standalone dental insurance plan, or you can get a combined medical and dental insurance plan.

There are various providers of dental insurance plans for international students while they are studying in the US. We're going give an example of a couple of them, NRIOL and Visitorguard, so you can get an idea of the services they offer.

NRIOL is a private insurance agency based in Virginia that provides travel and health insurance services, one of those being medical insurance for students from abroad. They offer two packages for students - dental insurance only plans, and a medical and limited dental plan.

The dental plan includes:

Choice between three levels of coverage

No waiting periods on most services covered

No enrollment fee

Preventative, basic, and major treatment, and orthodontic care

This plan is provided by Ameritas, and you'll need to provide some basic information on their website to get a quote.
VisitorGuard
VisitorGuard is another US-based insurance company that aims to offer affordable dental insurance for international students. Just like NRIOL, they offer two options for international students to choose from, a dental and vision plan, or a medical and limited dental coverage plan.

The dental plan is provided by Primestar and looks nearly identical to the plan described above, offering the same benefits. This plan costs a flat fee of $20/month.

If you'd like to browse all of your options for international dental insurance for students studying in the US, you can also go to dentalinsurance.com. They offer a wide range of standalone dental plans that international and domestic students alike can apply for.

Dental insurance for students under 26

Fortunately, under the Affordable Care Act, you can continue to enjoy the benefits provided by your parents' health and dental insurance plans until you are 26, even if you get married.

If you aren't covered under your parents' plan, then you can get dental insurance coverage through the ACA by going to healthcare.gov and browsing the plans there.

However, unless you have a life-changing event (marriage, divorce, aging out of parents' plan, pregnancy, income change, etc.) you can't enroll through healthcare.gov outside the open enrollment period, which is generally between November and January each year.

You may also qualify for Medicaid, which you can apply for by going to heathcare.gov. Your income needs to be under a certain level and your parents can't be planning to claim you as a dependent on their tax returns, otherwise, their income will factor in as well.

In some states in the US, Medicaid offers dental coverage. You'll need to consult the specific rules for the state you live in, or the state you'll be going to school in.

Dental insurance cost for college students

The cost of dental insurance for college students will vary depending on the plan and the needs of each individual, as well as the state you live in. Thankfully, dental insurance isn't as expensive as regular health insurance, with some monthly premiums as low as around $7.

However, you'll also need to keep in mind your deductible, coinsurance and annual maximum, as these costs and factors will also impact how much you ultimately end up paying for dental treatment.

Cheap dental insurance for college students

If you're looking for affordable dental insurance for college students (and let's be real, who isn't?), you may want to consider an HMO. We'll talk more about what an HMO is below if you're interested in the details, but basically, with an HMO, you have a primary care dentist, and you will need to visit that dentist or you will pay additional fees.

HMO plans typically don't have any deductibles, but there is a copay that you will pay at the time of visit. In summary, HMO plans tend to have the lowest monthly premiums, and might not have annual maximums, but they are the most restrictive in terms of the providers you can see. If you're looking for the most affordable option, this might be it.

Check out the video below for a summary of how health insurance works in some cases for college students. The video talks about general health insurance, but a lot of the same conditions apply for dental insurance:

How dental insurance works

First, you sign up for a dental plan with a dental insurance company. You agree to pay a monthly premium, which is just a fancy word for fee, and in return, your dental insurance will cover a percentage of your treatment costs.

Some dental insurance plans cover 100% of preventive services, like cleanings and exams, and then cover parts of other services, like 50% for fillings, and 30% for root canals.

Other important terms to know about dental insurance are:

Annual maximum: This is the most that your insurance will pay for your coverage during a year. If your maximum is $1,500, that means that once your insurance company has paid $1,500 of your dental costs, you'll be responsible to cover the rest out of pocket.

Deductible: Your deductible is how much you are responsible to pay out of pocket before your insurance will kick in. For example, if you need a root canal procedure that costs $2,000, and you have a deductible of $1,000, you will pay $1,000 out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.

Copay: This is a small fee that you may have to pay when you go to a clinic to receive care.

Coinsurance: This is the percentage of costs that your insurance will pay for. For example, if the coinsurance for a filling is 50%, then your insurance coverage will pay for 50% of your filling costs, and you will have to pay the other 50% (after you've reached your deductible).

There are also different types of insurance plans:

Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO): These typically have an annual deductible and coinsurance, and you will save money by seeing a dentist in your network.

Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO): These plans are more affordable. They often have no deductibles and a set fee for non-preventive treatment. You typically have to choose one primary care dentist to go to, so there is less freedom.

Dental Indemnity: You can see dentists in and out of network and you don't need referrals to see specialists. These plans typically cost more.

Dental Exclusive Provider Organization (DEPO): With this type of plan you can choose to see a general dentist or a specialist. You don't need a primary care dentist, but you must see in-network dentists.

Dental Point of Service (DPOS): You can see dentists in and out of network, but you must choose a primary care dentist who can refer you to specialists.

Dental discount/savings plans: This is not a type of insurance plan, so there are no maximums, deductibles or waiting periods. You pay a monthly or annual fee for discounts on all treatments.

Conclusion

Most college students are on a budget, so you may be looking for the cheapest dental insurance for college students out there.

We've talked about the different types of plans available, and given you a sampling of some of the top offers out there, including plans from Humana, Delta Dental, and Americas. We also threw in the option of a dental savings plan from Careington and a DHMO from Dental Health Services.

Whether you choose a traditional insurance plan or a dental savings plan, it's important that your teeth are covered while you're studying. You never know when an accident can happen - whether you injure a tooth doing something intellectually-questionable during a themed frat party, or you get an unexpected cavity, dental insurance is there for preventative health and emergencies.

If you'd like to get started looking for your student dental plan now, you can go to DentalInsurance.com. This online marketplace makes it easy to browse, compare and enroll in affordable dental plans with the benefits you need.

If I am a college student, can I coinsurance my dental plan?

A dental health insurance plan typically works with coinsurance. Coinsurance is the percentage or amount of money that your insurance plan will pay for a given treatment.

If your coinsurance is 30% for a dental filling, that means that you will be responsible for paying 70% of the filling costs.

Why is it important to get dental insurance as you graduate high school?

When you graduate high school, you go out into the real world, and you won't be eligible for the same benefits you may have gotten when you were under 18. So it's time to find dental insurance.

Thankfully, under the Affordable Care Act, you may be able to use your parents' dental insurance until you turn 26, but if not, you need to find your own dental insurance or dental discount plan so you can take care of your teeth and prevent paying a lot more for bigger problems down the road.

Can I get dental insurance with no income?

It's true that if you have absolutely no money, it may be difficult to find a dental insurance plan that you can afford. In this case, you should look for free or sliding scale clinics. We have an article dedicated to finding free dental care if this applies to you.

Can college students get Medicaid?

College students can get Medicaid if their income falls at or below 133% of the Federal Poverty Level. The Kaiser Family Foundation covers this in more detail on their website.

How long can college students use their parents' dental insurance?

Under the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare), children, including college students, can stay on their parents' health and dental insurance until they are 26 years old. After that, it's time to fend for themselves.

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Best Dental Insurance for College Students: Affordable Budget Plans - Dentaly.org

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What is the best dental insurance for college students? Find the best dental plans for international and domestic students.

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operates on a sliding scale

funded by the federal government

based on income

patients can be covered even without insurance

offers dental X-Rays, dental cleanings, fillings, extractions, etc.

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offers dental cleanings, dental X-Rays, and sealants

dental cleanings are $20

panoramic and full mouth series X-Rays are $20

bitewings are free of cost

patients might require multiple appointments but will only have to pay once for their cleaning on the first appointment

patients will have to pay again for a cleaning when they come back as a recare, in 3 or 6 months

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Preventive benefits ensure that problems are found early

You’re protected from financial risk

Dental health can affect your overall health: can worsen medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease

Saves you money in the long run

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saves money

every dollar spent of preventitve care can save you money from much more expensive restorative and emergency treatments

dental check-ups help you develop and maintain good oral habits that will maintain your oral health

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An overview of the bidirectional relationship that exists between oral health and diet and nutrition.