Oral health is a vital aspect of a person’s overall health and well-being. It’s interesting to note, however, that many people don’t visit the dentist as often as recommended. On an annual basis, it’s been determined that 100 million Americans don’t visit the dentist at all. In 2015, for example, the average time between dental appointments was three years. Since experts recommend visiting the dentist at least twice a year, it’s not surprising that so many Americans have a variety of dental issues.

Common Dental Issues

Untreated cavities are common within the United States. Research shows that 20% of adults have at least one untreated cavity. When left untreated, cavities can be painful and infections may also develop.

Periodontal disease is another issue that can develop and become more severe over time. Given adults within the 30 and older age bracket, 47.2% have some degree of this gum disease. In addition to severe pain, bleeding gums, and the potential for infection, gum disease can contribute to tooth loss.

Dental Implants

When adults lose one or more teeth, they may choose to have dental implants rather than a partial plate. One of the reasons for this is that implants look, feel, and function like normal teeth. There are 500,000 people a year that opt for this procedure, which has a 98% success rate.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth discoloration can still occur even when people diligently brush their teeth. While some individuals may choose to use over-the-counter products for brightening their smile, professional whitening sessions are more effective. A recent survey indicated that 82.5% of the participants that had their teeth whitening performed by a dentist noticed a significant difference in the overall appearance of their teeth.

Teeth Brushing Recommendations

According to the American Dental Association, people should brush their teeth twice a day. Regular flossing is also recommended. It’s also important for tooth brushes to be replaced on a regular basis. Apparently, 75% of the population doesn’t follow this guideline.

Schedule a Dental Appointment

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s survey revealed that 99.7% adults believe that healthy smiles are important for social reasons. Furthermore, 74% of the participants indicated that unattractive smiles can have a negative impact on them professionally. These results should both inspire and encourage people to schedule regular dentist appointments to ensure they have a healthy and attractive smile.

If you haven’t seen your dentist recently, it’s likely time for another check-up and teeth whitening procedure. In case you’re experiencing pain, bleeding gums, or another issue, it’s important to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. Once you visit your dentist, you’ll be able to discuss your concerns and learn more about creating and maintaining your oral health.