At Larrimore Family Dentistry, we are on a mission to help our Ephrata neighbors enjoy optimal dental health. But have you ever thought how big of a project this is? In this article, we’ll look at the state of dental health in Ephrata and what you can do about it.
The State of Dental Health in Ephrata
According to a US Census estimate in 2019, Ephrata borough has 13,862 residents. If we add in Ephrata Township (10,364) and Akron (4,015), we are looking at around 28,241 residents of the greater Ephrata community. Out of all these residents, an estimated 58.2% of them are between the ages of 20 and 64, which is 16,436 residents.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, a department of the National Institutes of Health, conducts significant research into the state of oral health in the United States. In their most recent study, they found that 92% of adults 20 to 64 have had tooth decay in their permanent teeth, and 26% of them have decay that is untreated. On average, these adults that have untreated decay have cavities on 1.55 surfaces of their teeth, each of which would require a filling.
Filling Cavities in Ephrata
If the Ephrata community follows the national trend, this means that 4,273 adults in Ephrata currently have untreated tooth decay, with an estimated 6,623 cavities that need to be filled.
Catching tooth decay early is crucial for improving dental health; left untreated, a cavity can continue to decay your tooth until it reaches the nerve, which would then require a root canal or even tooth extraction.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet items, you may have untreated tooth decay. You should schedule a dental checkup and x-ray to determine the severity of the decay and the appropriate course of action for treatment.
Tips for Preventing Cavities
Of course, the best way to avoid cavities and fillings is by practicing good oral hygiene every day. Here are a few tips for caring for your teeth:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Use a mouthwash after brushing and flossing
- Eat a healthy diet
- Limit between-meal snacks
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months – or sooner if bristles are frayed
- Schedule regular dental checkups
*Blog submitted from Larrimore Family Dentistry
Larrimore Family Dentistry
814 Dawn Avenue
Ephrata, PA 17522
717-733-7971
