According to the most recent statistics, there are approximately 154,000 dental practices operating in the United States; and many of those practices are staffed by two or more dentists. Although the best dentists in the United States can offer their patients the most advanced dental care in the world, less than two-thirds of American adults visited a dentist over the past 12 months.
In light of those numbers, it should comes as no surprise that roughly three quarters of the American population has some type of periodontal disease. This means that gum disease is the most common disease in the United States today. Given the superior dental care that is available to Americans, what is the reason that so many, evidently, practice poor dental hygiene.
To be fair, not everyone in the United States has access to dental insurance, which automatically puts 20% of the population at a disadvantage to those who do have health insurance. But what’s the excuse for the other 54% of the population who apparently have access to dental insurance coverage, but still have periodontal disease. Well, it basically comes down to failing to brush and floss frequently enough, and thoroughly enough.
If folks hope to avoid tooth decay and emergency dental appointment, it is important to listen to the suggestions of their dentists. For instance, dentists recommend that everyone try to floss and brush three times per day. It is also important to remember to brush thoroughly. This means spending at least two, and preferably three, minutes brushing each time.
Unfortunately, less than one-third of Americans floss daily, and only about a quarter brush for at least two minutes. As you can see, it is no wonder that so many Americans end up making emergency dental appointments!
While it’s obvious that the majority of Americans need to improve their dental hygiene, it is good to know that there are cosmetic dentists who can offer solutions to people who want a second chance at a nice smile. Even if an extraction or root canal is in order, a good implant dentist can fit patients with natural looking tooth replacements that can last for the rest of their lives. Visit here for more.
