Over 90% of adults believe oral health is key part of overall health: Report

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More than 90% of adults in the U.S. agree that oral health is an important aspect of overall health, according to a new report from Delta Dental Plans Association. 

The organization published its sixth annual State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report, which collected responses from 1,000 nationally representative U.S. adults ages 18 and older.

Here are five notes on the report:

  1. Adults part of Gen Z are driving the increase, with 94% of Gen Z respondents believing that oral health is very or extremely important to their overall health, up from 89% in 2025.
  2. In 2025, 57% of adults visited the dentist, with a higher percentage of adults making preventive visits compared to 2024. 
  3. Cavity fillings and gum disease treatment were the most common treatments adults visited the dentist for. 
  4. Adults in urban areas were more likely to visit the dentist, as 59% of adults in urban areas went to a dentist in 2025 compared to 44% of adults in rural areas.
  5. Shorter wait times, noise-cancelling headphones and streaming media options are among the top requests that would make adults feel more comfortable during a dental visit. 

Read the full report here

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