Dental Care Statistics
The people of Birmingham, AL can count on Dr. Burton Gooch and his team to provide high-quality dental care. At Gooch Family Dental, we offer state-of-the-art restorative dentistry to treat tooth decay and gum disease as well as advanced cosmetic treatments to enhance smiles in patients of all ages.
A big part of our practice is built around patient education matters. With that in mind, let’s take a moment to consider some telling statistics about dental care. This will give you an idea about the dental health challenges facing people here in Alabama and across the nation.
Statistics on Oral Hygiene in America
Recent surveys reveal that most Americans have a generally simple and straightforward oral hygiene routine.
Approximately 42 percent of adults use toothpaste and a toothbrush for their at-home cleaning routine. Less than 33 percent of Americans use mouthwash as part of their normal oral hygiene routine, and less than 25 percent use dental floss. Remember that it’s a good idea to brush at least twice a day and to floss at least once a day.
Statistics on Cavities
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) estimates that 92 percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have suffered from at least one cavity; 26 percent of adults in this age range currently have an untreated cavity.
Among children ages 2 to 11, 42 percent experienced at least one cavity affecting their baby teeth; 23 percent of children in this age range currently have an untreated cavity.
Statistics on Periodontal Disease
According to findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 47 percent of Americans age 30 or older suffers from gum disease. That’s translates into 64.7 million Americans.
The risk of periodontal disease increases as we age The CDC also estimated that 70 percent of adults age 65 or older suffers from gum disease. This is why regular brushing and flossing is essential.
Statistics on Tooth Loss
Not counting wisdom teeth, the average adult with all of their teeth has 28 teeth. Tooth decay, gum disease, injuries, and other factors can lead to tooth loss. The NIDCR estimates that Americans between the ages of 27 to 34 have an average of 26.9 teeth. Age ages 35 to 49, that number falls to 25 teeth, and it dips down to 22.3 teeth for Americans between the ages of 50 and 64.
Statistics on Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is an issue that is sometimes linked to other health problems. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association estimates that 1 in 8 Americans suffer from some degree of tooth sensitivity. The study also found that 12 percent of people who suffered from tooth sensitivity did not suffer from other dental health issues and simply had sensitive teeth.
Fluoridated Water in the State of Alabama
We’ve focused on national numbers, so let’s close with a focus on fluoride in the water system in Alabama. Fluoride has been credited with lowering the cavity rates in children as well as adults. Approximately 78 percent of Alabama’s population receives water fluoride in it, which is comparable to other nearby states in the Southeast and actually higher than some adjacent states in the South.
Learn More About Dental Care
For more information about your dental care needs and how we can help you smile with renewed confidence, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center. We are here to help you smile. You can reach Gooch Family Dental by phone at (205) 545-8001.
