Good dental health is not just about flashing a pearly white smile, it’s a crucial aspect of overall well-being for people of all ages. From the time you grow your first tooth until after they’ve all fallen out, dental health impacts us throughout our entire lives.
Proper oral care early in life lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Although the daily grind can take its toll, it’s crucial to maintain regular dental check-ups, address dental issues early on, and develop good habits now that will pay off in the future.
Here are some surprising statistics about oral and dental health with some tips for improving your habits today:
Dental Health Numbers to Gnaw On
- Oral disease affects nearly 3.5 billion people globally†
- Tooth decay affects an estimated 2.3 billion people globally†
- The average American spends 45–70 seconds brushing their teeth, but the recommended time is 120–180 seconds (2–3 minutes)‡
- Almost 18% of children between the ages of 5 and 19 have cavities‡
- 91% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have cavities*
- Roughly 25% of adults aged 65 and older have lost all of their teeth*
6 Tips for Tooth-Tastic Oral Care
- Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste to reduce plaque buildup
- Limit sugary beverages and snacks in your diet
- See your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups
- Consume calcium-rich dairy products like milk and yogurt
- Avoid smoking, which is associated with an increased risk of gum disease
- Spit, don’t rinse, after brushing to ensure you don’t wash away protective fluoride
Each toothbrush stroke and every routine dental visit contributes to the harmony of improved dental health. With every cavity we prevent and each bit of knowledge we glean, we make an investment that resonates through the years with the promise of a healthier, happier tomorrow. Here’s to a lifetime of vibrant smiles and dental care that keeps us grinning for a lifetime!
Additional Sources
† https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health
‡ https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/dental.htm
* https://www.dentalgroupwest.com/blog/oral-health-scary-statistics/