Taking care of our teeth seems like a simple task, but for adults in the U.S. dental health is horrible. The main cause behind this situation is poor brushing habits. We know most people know they have to brush their teeth twice a week, but they do it very fast, they skip some areas and they don’t use dental floss. So, with the passage of time, these little mistakes can become serious problems like cavities, gum disease and even more serious health issues. Let’s find out more about this situation.
Concern about adults’ dental health
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 42% of adults older than 30 years old show signs of gum disease. This means that half of the adult population suffers from something that could be prevented.
Dentists explain that the main reason behind this issue is not that adults don’t brush their teeth, the thing is that they don’t properly do it. Most of them barely brush for 30 seconds, press too hard, or miss hard-to-reach spots. What’s more, they forget about flossing which makes plaque build up quickly and what’s the consequence? Damaged teeth and gums.
How people should brush
The American Dental Association (ADA) offers some very simple recommendations so that adults improve the way they brush:
- Brush for at least two full minutes, twice a day.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
- Move the brush in gentle, circular motions instead of scrubbing harshly.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if bristles wear out.
- Floss daily to clean between teeth where brushes can’t reach.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks that feed harmful bacteria.
By following these simple steps, you will prevent damages in the long term.
Hidden risks
Dental health is not about aesthetics,for adults poor dental health habits are related to more serious health issues. Gum disease can lead to:
- Heart disease.
- Diabetes complications.
- Alzheimer’s disease.
This means dental health is more than having a beautiful smile, but also protecting health in general. Bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and this would provoke inflammation in other parts of the body, increasing risks that many adults don’t realize.
Why is adults’ dental health in decline?
If adults already know the basics, why do they still struggle? Experts point to a few reasons:
- Busy schedules: At night, many people are tired and rush through brushing, often doing it carelessly.
- Stress: When life gets overwhelming, adults may skip flossing or avoid dental checkups.
- Lack of awareness: Some don’t realize that how you brush is just as important as how often you do it.
Experts on public health believe more education for adults is necessary. For example, children are taught how to brush whereas adults rarely receive reminders or updates.
Small changes
Don’t worry if you are part of the percentage of population whose dental health is in decline, because the good news is that to improve this situation you don’t need expensive treatments. You can care for your dental health by following simple and constant changes:
- Take your time: Spend two minutes brushing, every time.
- Stay consistent: Brush morning and night, and never skip flossing.
- See your dentist regularly: Schedule checkups at least twice a year.
Now that you know what can happen if you don’t care about your dental health. So, if you want to have a nice smile and prevent serious diseases, you can start changing your dental health habits now. Of course, changes are difficult to incorporate into our daily routines, but in the end it will be worth it. What’s stopping you from properly brushing your teeth?