Natural State News

Ed Choate, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Arkansas, is retiring after more than two decades as head of the nonprofit dental insurance provider.

“It was not an easy decision,” Choate told Natural State News. “I absolutely love the people, our company and the work we do helping others.

By the end of 2021, Choate will be 67.

“Simply said, it’s time,” Choate said. “I’m looking forward to sending more time with my family, particularly my grandkids. I also love to fly fish. There’s just some things in my life that I want to spend more time doing.”

At the same time, he believes Delta Dental can benefit from a new leader with new ideas.

“Health care is transitioning very, very rapidly both in terms of delivery and financing,” he said. “You need a leader who has a fresh perspective to help you not just solve the problems of the day but also make sure your organization is well positioned for the future.”

Delta Dental is the largest provider of dental insurance in Arkansas and also has a foundation which has donated more than $25 million over the last 13 years to support oral health education.

Over his years with Delta Dental, Choate has seen real progress in dental health.

“We have seen advancements in fluoride, with more communities adding fluoride to their water supply to strengthen the enamel of people’s teeth,” he said. “From a public health standpoint that has been a huge help.”

The Delta Dental Foundation has donated more than $8 million to buy equipment for water systems to add fluoride, Choate said. The number of Arkansas residents with fluoride in their water has increased by 600,000 over the last decade, he said.

There is a greater understanding of the importance of brushing and flossing teeth, Choate said.

“Generationally, there has been a huge improvement in oral health,” he said. "I think my grandchildren have the opportunity to have a cavity-free life,” he said.