It’s the Halloween season, and you’ll undoubtedly want something to scream over. Since you’ve certainly been binging on movies about zombies, werewolves, vampires, ghosts, and alien parasites for the past few weekends, you might be in the mood for some real-world terror. Here are some horrifying dental statistics to scare you into better oral hygiene. Just make sure that you don’t start biting your nails; that’s really bad for your dental health.
Tooth Decay is Terrifying
Tooth decay starts with cavities, but if left untreated it can result in toothaches, tooth loss, and dangerous secondary infections such as sepsis. A few gruesome statistics on the topic include:
- Untreated tooth decay is the most common health problem across the world.
- Almost one in five children has untreated cavities.
- More than 90% of adults have cavities.
- About 25% of adults have untreated tooth decay.
Gum Disease is Ghastly
Gum disease is an insidious threat that can go unnoticed in its early stage called gingivitis, but if left untreated it can lead to tooth loss, erosion of the jawbone, and the same nasty secondary infections that can be caused by tooth decay. A few bone-chilling numbers about gum disease are:
- Almost half of all adults have some degree of gum disease.
- More than 70% of seniors live with gum disease.
- One in four seniors has lost all their teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene is Petrifying
Teeth need proper care to remain healthy and strong. Some unfortunate statistics about oral hygiene include:
- More people on Earth own a smartphone than a toothbrush.
- Nearly one in five children never saw the dentist in the past year.
- About 40% of adults went without seeing the dentist in the past year.
- Roughly 45 million adults go without dental insurance.
- The most common reason people skip seeing the dentist is that they don’t want to spend the money or think they can’t afford it.
The good news is that you don’t have to become any of these statistics! Tooth decay and gum disease are almost completely preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular dental appointments. Many dentists have programs to help people afford their services. By brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash every day while seeing your dentist twice a year or as recommended, you can create a multi-layered shield for your teeth that can keep them healthy for life.
About the Author
Dr. Ishwinder Saran earned his DMD from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine before training in general dentistry for an additional year at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY. He has extensive training and experience in all phases of general dentistry and pursuing continuing education courses to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. His office in Long Island City, NY offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To avoid becoming a statistic, schedule an appointment by contacting the office online or dialing (718) 530-6539.