Dental health plays an important part in our daily life. As we delve into the world of dental care, let’s explore some notable dental statistics of 2022. For instance, the new Global Oral Health Status Report was published in 2022 by the World Health Organization (WHO). It revealed data profiles for 194 countries and presented the first-ever comprehensive picture of oral health around the world. Additionally, it provided unique insights into key areas and markers of oral health related to decision-makers. Then, how much do you know about the dental statistics for 2020? Read on for more information.
Key Findings
These statistics shed light on various aspects of oral health, dental treatments, and trends within the dental industry. Here are a few key findings:
- Oral Health and Hygiene:
– According to WHO, 45% of the world’s population, around 3.5 billion people suffer from oral diseases.
– Approximately 26% of adults aged 20-64 have untreated dental decay in their permanent teeth.
– Tooth loss affects 30% of people aged 65-74 worldwide.
– Global cases of oral diseases have increased by 1 billion over the last 30 years.
- Dental Visits and Treatment:
– In the United States, 64.7% of adults aged 18-64 visited a dentist in the past year.
– The most common reasons for dental visits are routine check-ups (40.8%) and treatment of dental problems (32.7%).
– Dental fillings remain the most common restorative procedure, followed by tooth extractions and cleanings.
- Oral Health and Overall Health:
– Research suggests that poor oral health is associated with increased risks of various systemic conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, etc.
– Studies indicate that regular dental exams and cleanings can help detect the early signs of systemic diseases.
- Cosmetic Dentistry:
– The demand for cosmetic dental procedures continues to rise, with teeth whitening being the most sought-after treatment.
– Dental bonding, veneers, and orthodontic treatments like clear aligners are also popular options for enhancing dental aesthetics.
- Technological Advancements:
– Digital dentistry is gaining momentum, with the revolutionizing technologies like intraoral scanners, 3D printing, and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems.
– The use of tele-dentistry and artificial intelligence in dental diagnostics and treatment planning is also on the rise.
Risk Factors
According to the ADAH (American Dental Hygienists’ Association), nearly 80% of Americans have at least a cavity before 17. Moreover, about 80% of Americans have some level of gum diseases. Some risk factors as follows can lead to the appearance of dental diseases.
Tobacco use, alcohol consumption and an unhealthy diet are common causes of the 4 leading NCDs (cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes).
2. High Consumption of Sugar
Diabetes is connected in a reciprocal way with the development and progression of periodontal disease. There is also a causal link between the high consumption of sugar and diabetes, obesity and dental caries.
3.Potential Dangers of Soda
A survey conducted by the journal General Dentistry shows that soda can cause serious problems to your teeth. In fact, a diet made up of soda can cause as many problems such as smoking.
4.Insufficient Brushing Time and Frequency
The Academy of General Dentistry finds that Americans brush their teeth for only 45-70 seconds each day. 75% of millennials only brush their teeth once a day. The time and frequency fail to meet the ADA’s requirements of twice a day and two minutes each time.
5.Few Replacements of Toothbrushes
Almost all Americans use their toothbrushes for much longer than recommended. If the bristles don’t work well as they used to do, replace your toothbrush with a new one.
6.Neglect of Wearing Mouth Guards
Only 60% of kids play fall and winter sports with mouth guards. This means that children are often exposing themselves to potential dangers and injuries.
7.Failure to Attend Dental Consultations Regularly
40% of children younger than three years old have never been to the dentist. 42% of adults report they don’t visit the dentist as much as they should.
Feasible Countermeasures
We can reduce the burden of oral diseases and other noncommunicable diseases through interventions by addressing common risk factors. These include:
1.promoting a well-balanced diet low in free sugars and high in fruit and vegetables;
2.stopping use of all forms of tobacco, avoiding chewing of areca nuts, and reducing alcohol consumption;
3.using protective equipment when doing sports and travelling on bicycles and motorcycles;
4.ensuring adequate exposure to fluoride in order to prevent dental caries;
5.keeping twice-daily tooth brushing with fluoride-containing toothpaste (1000 to 1500 ppm), two minutes each time;
6.replacing the toothbrushes as soon as they wear out.
These statistics above provide valuable insights into the current state of oral health, dental practices, and emerging trends. They highlight the importance of regular dental visits, maintaining good oral hygiene, and the role of advanced technologies in delivering quality dental care. If you would like some advice on oral health or to purchase dental products, please feel free to contact us! We are at your service.