Are you aware that cavities are not the only common oral health problem these days? Did you know that gum disease can do more than just harm your smile? You might think you know a lot about the health of your teeth and gums, but you may be surprised by what you don’t know; in fact, it might even scare you to learn the truth about some of the most common dental stats available. Keep reading to expand your knowledge and find out what you can do to better safeguard your and your family’s smiles.
Surprising Dental Stats: What You Don’t Know
Dentists throughout the country work hard to help children and adults maintain better oral health. Through regular dental visits and education, the necessity to take care of teeth and gums is essential, especially as tooth decay and gum disease are the most common and often damaging oral health problems.
But as more research is done by professionals in the field, it is alarming to learn that some of the following statistics ring true, as they are a staunch reality of the need for continued dental education:
- 91% of individuals between the ages of 20 and 64 have cavities, and 27% are living with untreated tooth decay.
- An estimated 17% of children between the ages of 2 and 17 did not visit the dentist last year.
- Cost remains the primary reason adults between the ages of 18 and 64 do not visit the dentist, even when an oral health problem exists.
What Can Be Done to Ensure Better Oral Health?
Many of these statistics are alarming, and not only to you but to dental professionals throughout the country. If you and your family want to avoid falling into one of the categories listed above, there are things you can do to better protect your oral and overall health, such as:
- Developing and adhering to a strict oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth twice each day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once before you go to bed, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash.
- Keeping your six-month dental checkups and teeth cleanings to allow a professional to examine your mouth and remove any hardened plaque and tartar.
- Giving up unhealthy habits like smoking, eating ice, consuming excess alcohol, chewing on inanimate objects (i.e., pens and pencils), and biting your fingernails.
- Eating a nutritious diet full of leafy greens, calcium-rich dairy products, lean meats, and fruits and vegetables. Limiting access to those full of sugar and starch.
- Enrolling in a dental insurance plan to help pay for preventive and restorative dental care, or talking to your dentist about in-house membership plans that can help you save.
You don’t have to become a statistic, so make sure you’re doing your part to maintain better oral health throughout the year.
About the Practice
Our team of dentists at Westgate Dental Care wants you and your family to enjoy healthier smiles. With many alarming statistics showcasing the reality of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and missed dental visits among individuals throughout the United States, our team is here to provide accessible and affordable services to keep children and adults from experiencing poor oral health. Visit our website or call us at (847) 908-3684 to find out how you and your loved ones can take charge of your smile.