The American Dental Association (ADA) recently published a report on the state the country’s oral health. Despite widespread access to preventive dentistry, Americans’ oral health is not up to par with other developed nations that have similar standards. After conducting a survey on oral health knowledge and oral hygiene habits, the ADA concluded that a new campaign to educate the public on the importance of proper oral hygiene and professional dental care is necessary. The president of the ADA stated, “The results of the survey were quite shocking and really show how important it is for people to become more involved in their own oral health.” In fact, the study found that nearly 90% of adults had developed cavities in their permanent teeth and that tooth decay is the most common infectious disease among children.
ADA Survey Results
- An overwhelming majority of people believe that sugar is the cause of cavities. The truth is that acid weakens tooth enamel, which ultimately exposes the dentin to harmful oral bacteria that cause decay.
- Most parents are unaware that their child should see a dentist before the age of one.
- The majority of survey respondents did not know that oral bacteria can be transmitted between people.
Your Oral Health in Rochester
Dr. Gilly Calcagno and our team at Calcagno Cosmetic & Family Dentistry are concerned with the results of the ADA’s recent survey. Because we provide preventive dental services to patients of all ages, we strongly encourage people in our community to receive regular checkups and cleanings. Dental checkups allow our team to reveal oral health problems in their earliest stages. In fact, dental checkups provide a comprehensive oral health examination that includes looking for signs of oral cancer, gum disease, bone loss, and tooth decay. Dental cleanings are also necessary for removing tartar buildup (hardened plaque) and cleaning beneath the gum line and in between the teeth. Additionally, all patients should adopt a thorough hygiene regimen that includes brushing their teeth for at least three minutes twice a day and flossing at least once a day.
To schedule a dental cleaning, checkup, or cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Calcagno, contact our Rochester dentist office at (507) 281-3659. We serve patients from Red Wing, Hastings, Farmington, Winona, and the surrounding Rochester communities.
