To recognize National Dental Hygiene Month, Delta Dental shared encouraging results of its 2022 survey, showing that adults and kids are focusing on oral health.
Delta Dental shared encouraging findings from its 2022 survey showing U.S. adults and parents are engaging with diligent oral care at home.
The survey also found good news for practices as more adults and children made oral health preventive visits in 2022 than the year prior.
Surveyed adults followed recommended oral health guidelines at home – brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing and using mouthwash once a day, on average.
More than half of adults (55%) follow ADA guidelines on how often to replace toothbrushes, while a vast majority of parents (93%) do the same for their children.
Nearly half of adults (49%) used flouride products and 79% of parents said they believe fluoride is important to their child’s oral health and prevents cavities.
To improve oral health and smiles, 20% of adults reported using whitening products, 15% used a tongue scraper, and 10% used either a mouthguard or night guard.
For parents however, getting kids on board has its own complications. About 2 in 3 parents found it difficult to get children to brush their teeth, while 25% reported that their child did not like the taste of toothpaste.
“Oral health is critically important to overall health and well-being,” said Joseph Dill, DDS, MBA, chief dental officer, Delta Dental Plans Association. “In our national study, I am encouraged to see how adults and children across the country are committed to good oral health care through brushing, flossing, and making regular dentist visits to enhance their overall quality of life.”
The full report is available online.
Photo courtesy of Delta Dental
