In recognition of World Oral Health Day on March 20, Delta Dental has released the findings of its survey of American oral health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. For example:
- 90% of Americans believe that maintaining oral health is essential to protecting their overall health during the pandemic.
- 72% of Americans are paying closer attention to their oral care habits at home as a result of COVID-19.
- 93% of Americans plan to visit the dentist in 2021.
“Our findings show that Americans are focused on their oral health and recognize the integral role it plays in their overall health,” said James W. Hutchinson, president and CEO of the Delta Dental Plans Association.
“With nearly all Americans reporting that they plan to visit the dentist in 2021 and high levels of commitment to oral health habits at home, we are optimistic this will contribute to a positive shift toward improved overall health across the country,” Hutchinson said.
“Delta Dental applauds the efforts of Americans for making oral health a priority amid the pandemic,” he said.
Delta Dental said that it recognizes the tremendous efforts of providers and the entire oral health community to safeguard access to oral healthcare services and has taken action through its commitment of $1.1 billion to support COVID-19 relief.
Delta Dental’s Oral Health & Wellness Survey was conducted from December 28, 2020, through January 8, 2021, among a nationally representative sample of more than a thousand Americans age 18 and older.
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