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Delta Dental Report Highlights

In a recent press release from Delta Dental Plans Association, significant insights were unveiled regarding the state of oral health in the United States. As we approach National Dental Hygiene Month, the 2025 State of America's Oral Health and Wellness Report presents a fascinating analysis of consumer attitudes and behaviors towards dental care.

The Importance of Dental Visits

One of the most striking findings from the report is the emphasis placed on dental appointments—87% of surveyed adults acknowledge their equivalence to yearly physical check-ups. This statistic showcases a growing awareness of the essential role dental visits play in overall health, suggesting that people are beginning to acknowledge the importance of preventative care in addition to routine medical visits.

Furthermore, the report indicated that while adults and children are maintaining a strong frequency of preventive dental visits, there has been a noticeable decline in unexpected dental appointments. This could suggest improvements in oral health monitoring, as regular visits may be preventing emergency situations.

At-Home Oral Health Trends

Unfortunately, the report highlights concerning trends regarding at-home oral health habits. The data indicates that some key practices have deteriorated over the past year. For instance:

• - Brushing: Only 74% of adults reported brushing their teeth twice a day, a drop from 79% in 2024.
• - Flossing: The percentage of adults who floss daily fell from 76% to 71%.
• - Rinsing: Usage of mouthwash also declined, with only 66% of adults rinsing daily compared to 74% in the previous year.

Similarly, children’s oral care habits showed a decline, with only 67% brushing twice a day compared to 72% previously. Furthermore, 46% use mouthwash every day, showing a decrease from 54%.

The Impact of Dental Anxiety

An alarming trend noted in the report is the impact of dental anxiety on care-seeking behavior. More than 20% of adults admitted to avoiding dental appointments due to fear or anxiety, with 14% of parents skipping dental visits for their children. The primary causes of anxiety were reported as fear of pain or discomfort, which affected 59% of adults and 72% of children. This highlights an urgent need for the dental community to address these fears through better education and supportive practices.

Conclusion

As Delta Dental’s report emphasizes, while there is clear recognition of the importance of oral health, many Americans still face challenges in maintaining consistent care routines at home. By committing to improved dental practices and leveraging the resources available through regular dental visits, both adults and children can significantly enhance their oral health.

The Delta Dental Plans Association continues to advocate for education and awareness around preventive dental care, encouraging individuals to invest in both regular dental check-ups and at-home care to secure better health outcomes for future generations.

For those interested, the complete report is available, providing a detailed look at the findings and methodology behind the statistics. This insight is essential for dental professionals aiming to improve patient care strategies and for individuals who want to take proactive steps toward better oral health.