In observance of National Dental Hygiene Month, Delta Dental has released its 2024 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report.
This comprehensive analysis examines consumer attitudes and behaviors concerning oral health across the United States.
The report indicates a significant shift in adult dental hygiene practices, with more individuals adopting proper care routines to avert serious financial and health consequences. A striking 91% of adults cite saving money and avoiding unexpected expenses as key motivators for maintaining their dental hygiene, an increase from 87% last year. Additionally, nearly 74% of adults emphasize that preventing dental issues—such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay—is crucial, up from approximately 66% in 2023.
“It is encouraging to see the increased commitment to preventive oral health care at home and with the dentist,” stated Joseph Dill, DDS, MBA, Chief Dental Officer at Delta Dental Plans Association. “Diligence in oral care is not only vital for dental health but also plays a significant role in overall health. It helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, respiratory diseases, and diabetes.”
Key Findings From The Report
Increase in Preventive Visits:
Over 83% of adults who visited a dentist in 2023 did so for preventive care, up from 78% in 2022.
There has been a notable decline in unexpected dental visits among adults, decreasing from 41% in 2022 to 36% in 2023.
The report highlights the importance of dental insurance in encouraging adults to schedule preventive visits.
Children’s Oral Health Needs Improvement:
Parents report that about 72% of children brush their teeth at least twice daily. However, only around 54% rinse and 50% floss once per day.
Parents who believe their child’s oral health could improve cite frequent consumption of sweets (49%) and inadequate flossing (46%) or brushing (43%) as contributing factors.
For those interested in exploring the full findings and methodology of the 2024 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report, further details are available through Delta Dental’s resources.
This report reflects a growing awareness among U.S. adults regarding the importance of oral health. The findings suggest that financial considerations are increasingly influencing behaviors related to dental hygiene, underscoring the need for continued emphasis on preventive care practices.
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