Dental Care Statistics: How Do You Stack Up?
Are you curious to know how you stack up against others when it comes to oral healthcare? What about dental visits? Do you see your dentist often enough?
Today, Dr. Kellyn Hodges and our Philadelphia, PA team explore dental care statistics in the United States and across the globe.
With years of experience and expertise, we offer dental procedures to improve your oral health. No matter what your oral health needs, we can help you achieve the smile you deserve.
Tooth Decay: The Most Common Dental Problem
If you have ever had a cavity, you are in the majority of the United States population. Over 90 percent of Americans have experienced tooth decay at some point. In fact, approximately 26 percent of individuals have untreated cavities at any given moment.
When compared to other widespread medical ailments in the nation, tooth decay is 20 times more common than diabetes and five times more common than childhood asthma.
Gum Disease: The Leading Cause of Tooth Loss
Although not as common as tooth decay, gum disease still affects nearly half of the United States population. This condition is caused by bacteria at the gum line.
If left untreated, it can lead to chronic infection, bad breath, and tooth mobility. In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults.
Americans and the Importance of Dental Visits
Most Americans believe that a healthy smile makes them more attractive and successful, both personally and professionally. As a result, about 85 percent of patients believe that biannual dental visits are key to long-term oral health.
Unfortunately, only 64 percent of Americans actually followed through with routine dental appointments, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Surprisingly, the majority of Americans wait an average of three years between dental visits.
It should be noted that the recommended frequency for dental cleanings and examinations is two to four times every year.
Teeth Replacement in the United States
Missing teeth not only have a negative impact on your smile, they also compromise function and overall oral health. That is why tooth replacement is so important.
In the United States, about 15 million patients have crowns and bridges to replace their missing teeth. However, dental implants are quickly becoming the most successful replacement option on the market.
According to the American Dental Association, about five million dental implants are placed each year by doctors in the United States. Meanwhile, about 15 percent of denture-wearers have new prostheses made each year.
Contact Our Practice Today
How do you measure up when it comes to dental care? If it has been some time since you have visited the dentist, schedule a consultation with us. Call us at (610) 617-0700 or contact us online anytime.
