Tooth decay (otherwise known as cavities or dental caries) is one of the most prevalent health conditions worldwide, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. And despite advances in dental care and preventive measures, dental caries continue to impact billions of people. So, in this article, we explore the latest data on tooth decay prevalence and demographic patterns to better understand this common condition.
How common is tooth decay?
Tooth decay is a widespread and persistent global health issue. It affects nearly 90% of adults aged 20 to 64 and untreated tooth decay in permanent teeth is the most common health condition worldwide, impacting an estimated 2 billion people globally. In children, the situation is equally concerning, with 46% of children aged 2 to 19 having untreated or restored dental caries. Early intervention, such as regular check-ups and dental cleanings, plays a crucial role in preventing cavities and maintaining long-term oral health.
Tooth decay prevalence statistics
There are many fascinating statistics about the prevalence of tooth decay, including the following.
Tooth decay prevalence and trends
Globally, approximately 2 billion people suffer from dental caries in permanent teeth. (Source: World Health Organization)
With 2 billion people worldwide affected by dental caries in permanent teeth, tooth decay ranks among the most common global health issues. Prevention saves both health complications and financial costs in the long run.
According to the Global Burden of Disease 2021, untreated tooth decay is the most common health condition. (Source: World Health Organization)
Untreated tooth decay in permanent teeth is the most common health condition in the world, as reported by the Global Burden of Disease 2021. This widespread issue underscores the importance of preventive dental care, including regular check-ups, effective hygiene practices, and access to treatments, to reduce both health complications and financial burdens.
Nearly 90% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 years have had tooth decay. (Source: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research)
Tooth decay affects nearly 90% of adults aged 20 to 64, proving how common this oral health issue is. Preventive care, including regular dental check-ups, flossing, and fluoride toothpaste, is key to avoiding cavities. Investing in your dental health today helps reduce the need for costly treatments later.
96% of adults older than 65 have had a cavity. (Source: CDC)
With 96% of adults over 65 having had a cavity, it’s clear that dental health remains a lifelong priority. Good oral care preserves not only your smile but also your overall well-being.
From 2011 to 2016, adults between the ages of 20 to 64 years had an average of 9.3 decayed, missing, or filled teeth. (Source: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research)
An average of 9.3 decayed, missing, or filled teeth among adults aged 20 to 64 from 2011 to 2016 highlights how prevalent the issue is. Consistent dental care, including early intervention and preventive measures can help reduce the progression of dental issues over time.
A quarter of adults ages 20 to 64 years have had untreated decay. (Source: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research)
One in four adults between the ages of 20 and 64 has untreated tooth decay, demonstrating a significant gap in dental care access or prioritization. Untreated cavities can lead to pain and expensive treatments. Preventive care, regular check-ups, and timely treatment are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding serious dental problems.
Over 80% of people will have had at least one cavity by the age of 34. (Source: CDC)
Over 80% of people will experience at least one cavity by the age of 34, illustrating how widespread the problem is. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional check-ups are essential in preventing cavities. Early intervention and good oral hygiene habits can help reduce the risk and maintain long-term dental health.
Among adults aged 20 to 64, untreated cavities are half as common among working-aged adults with private health insurance (18%) compared to working-aged adults with no insurance (43%). (Source: CDC)
Untreated cavities affect 43% of working-age adults without insurance, compared to only 18% with private coverage. Access to routine dental care and preventive treatments can significantly reduce oral health issues and long-term costs.
Tooth decay prevalence in children
Roughly 46% of children between the ages of ages 2 to 19 years have untreated or restored dental caries in one or more primary or permanent teeth. (Source: Journal of Dental Hygiene)
With 46% of children aged 2 to 19 having untreated or restored dental caries, early dental care is crucial. Educating parents and children on oral hygiene habits helps establish lifelong practices that protect smiles and reduce future dental complications.
In children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old, untreated cavities are almost three times more common living in low-income households (18%) than in higher-income households (7%). (Source: CDC)
Children aged 2 to 5 from low-income households face nearly triple the risk of untreated cavities compared to those in higher-income families, showing a significant disparity.
50% of children between the ages of 6 and 9 years have had at least one cavity in their baby or permanent teeth. (Source)
Half of children aged 6 to 9 have experienced at least one cavity in their baby or permanent teeth, emphasizing the importance of preventive care. Early dental visits, fluoride treatments, and healthy brushing habits can protect young smiles, reducing future oral health problems and fostering positive lifelong dental practices.
Globally, an estimated 514 million children have dental caries in primary teeth. (Source: World Health Organization)
Globally, 514 million children have from dental caries in their primary teeth, highlighting a critical public health issue. Early intervention, regular dental check-ups, and education on proper oral hygiene can reduce the prevalence of cavities in children. Addressing this challenge helps prevent long-term dental problems and improves overall health outcomes.
Tooth decay prevention statistics
According to a study from 2018, high-fluoride toothpaste prevents caries more effectively than low-fluoride toothpaste. (Source: National Library of Medicine)
A 2018 study shows that high-fluoride toothpaste is more effective at preventing cavities than its low-fluoride counterpart. This highlights the importance of using toothpaste with the appropriate fluoride concentration for enhanced protection against tooth decay. Regular use can significantly reduce the risk of caries and promote long-term dental health.
Dental sealants in the back teeth prevent 80% of cavities. (Source: CDC)
Dental sealants applied to back teeth can prevent up to 80% of cavities, making them an effective preventive measure.
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Sources:
World Health Organization, CDC, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, CDC, Journal of Dental Hygiene, CDC, CDC, World Health Organization, National Library of Medicine
