How are your teeth looking? Your tooth health is one of the most consistently cared for in your physical repertoire, needing to be managed day after day to stay gleaming. Daily brushing and flossing not only keeps your pearly whites shining, but staves off frustrating issues like cavities, root canals and yellowing. Below are a host of common statistics as well as dental health facts to give you a better idea as to what you’re up against on your journey to a beautiful smile!
Self-Esteem And Your Smile
A beautiful smile is one of the best assets you can have. Ongoing studies are regularly conducted by dental professionals and psychologists alike to assess the appeal of healthy teeth and the results so far have been consistent across the board. Over 18% of people say they conceal their teeth when taking photos, while another 32% say they’re concerned by the look of their teeth. The average time people wait to see a dentist is every three years or so, with experts recommending a yearly visit to stave off long-term health issues.
Healthy Teeth And Opportunities
Did you know a healthy smile can bolster your social opportunities? Over 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to prospective partners, while additional surveys have revealed that a nice smile can mean the difference between a successful job interview and an unsuccessful one.
Common Issues And Maintenance
There are a few common issues that cause many to seek out their family dental services. Over 15 million people in the United States have either crown or bridge replacements for missing teeth, with a single crown the most common restorative procedure on the market — over two million implant-support crowns are made every year.
Emergency Services And Care
While cavities and implants are common issues most people will have at least one run-in with, there are more extreme conditions that require the aid of emergency dental services. A root canal is a cavity that has eaten its way through the tender nerve tissue, causing extreme pain and discomfort for the individual. If not treated a root canal can lead to jaw pain and stiffness in the long-term. The AAPD has estimated anywhere from 10% to 40% of all teeth injuries in children are caused by sports.
Children’s Teeth And Preventative Measures
Children need to take good care of their teeth as early as possible so they can have a strong smile as adults. Children with poor ongoing oral health are three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain than those who have better oral health. Studies have shown more than 40% of children have dental cavities by the time they reach kindergarten — this can be avoided by teaching children to brush their teeth and floss every day. Experts recommend brushing for two minutes twice per day.
Taking Care Of Your Teeth
While you should visit your family dentist once every year (barring a more extreme condition that needs immediate attention like a root canal), there are essential everyday habits you need to be mindful of. Brush your teeth after every meal, or at least once per day, while flossing should always be done before bed. Neglecting to floss can keep food and bacteria wedged between your teeth, damaging the gums and leading to potential cavities or gingivitis. Whether it’s visiting a cosmetic dentist to reduce yellowing or a family dental clinic to repair a root canal, a healthy smile can be yours with just a little effort.