The 2025 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report is a nationwide analysis of consumer opinions and behaviors relating to oral health. Findings from the Delta Dental-commissioned research of 2,000 U.S. adults and parents of children 12 and under illuminate what they thought about their oral health and what they did to properly care for it at home and with the dentist.
Download the full report here!
Key Findings:
ADULTS
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9 in 10 adults believe their oral health is an integral part of their overall health.
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Adults have a reduced understanding of the direct correlation between oral health and specific health conditions (including heart disease, respiratory illness, high blood pressure, and stroke).
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Adults are less likely to replace their toothbrushes in the recommended time frame (3 months).
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At home oral health care practices such as brushing, flossing and rinsing have had a notable decline since last year.
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Preventative dental visits continue to be prioritized to avoid serous long-term issues.
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Anxiety surrounding dental visits remains to be a barrier for adults and children.
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Individuals with dental insurance report physical, mental, and financial health benefits.
CHILDREN
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2 in 3 kids brush their teeth twice per day, while about half floss or use mouth wash once per day.
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Unexpected dental visits declined, with about 1 in 10 parents taking their child to the dentist for an unexpected reason (cavities, crooked teeth, or bad breath).
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Preventative dental visits increased, with almost all parents (95%) reporting having took their child to the dentist in the past year.
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Issues identified as the biggest culprits in child's oral health are not flossing, too may sweets, not brushing enough, too much juice and soda.
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1 in 4 parents report that their child feels anxious about their cleanings and exams, with children between the ages of 6 and 12 more likely to be anxious during a visit than younger children.