Is dental insurance worth it? The real costs of skipping the dentist

It's easy to find excuses not to go to your dental check-ups, especially when you’re worried about how you’re going to pay the check. If that’s you, you’re not alone – the 2025 Dental Report found that around 1 in 3 American adults have avoided a dental appointment in the last year, an unfortunate trend consistent with the findings over the past decade. 

But with so many demands on our money every month, is dental insurance actually worth it? At Risas Dental and Braces, we’ve been investigating how much the average American adult is spending on dental care and what you risk spending on treatment in the long term when you skip routine visits.  

Do I really need dental insurance?

The Dental Report found that, across the US, an estimated 34.1% of adults had skipped dental visits over the past year. That means one in three Americans didn’t see a dentist for routine check-ups - and the number one reason given for missing appointments is the prohibitive costs due to lack of access to dental insurance. 

We get it; dental insurance can be expensive, and if you’ve never had any major issues with your teeth, it might feel like you can do without it, especially if your finances are stretched thin. But the longer you leave an untreated cavity or  annoying toothache, the higher your chances of needing a root canal, crown or full tooth extraction, which means greater risk of dental complications and a much steeper bill to pay to get it fixed. 

If you’re not sure whether dental insurance is worth it for you, consider if you could afford to look after your oral health if something did go wrong.

Highest cost increase for delayed treatment by state

At Risas Dental and Braces, we’ve carried out our own investigative research into how much the average American adult who regularly visits the dentist spends on dental care, versus how much they might spend if they skip the routine visits and avoid preventative dental care, to see if dental insurance is worth it.  

For each state, we looked at the:

• Annual dental spend of the average American adult who visits the dentist regularly
• Potential annual cost to treat oral health issues that often arise from lack of preventative care 
• Percentage increase in overall costs for those who don’t visit the dentist regularly

Based on our research, we’ve identified the top five states where, if you don’t visit the dentist regularly, you’ll be shelling out the biggest increase in costs. 

1. Utah 

Coming in at number five, the average spend on services for those regularly attending the dentist in Utah is $360 per capita. But when minor issues aren’t caught early, the cost of the delayed treatments comes out at $2,728 – this means that without preventative care, your costs could increase by 637%. 

1. Nevada

Next on the list is Nevada, with the average adult spending $361, compared with delayed treatment costs of $2,664, increasing your costs by 638%. Don’t forget, if you’re based in Nevada and looking for a compassionate, expert Las Vegas dentist with flexible payment options available to help you manage your finances, you can find two of our locations in North Las Vegas and Boulder Crossings. 

1. West Virginia

Those in West Virgina are paying the third-highest rates in the country for delayed dental treatments, averaging out at $2,744. While Wisconsin and Wyoming may both have higher costs associated with delayed treatment, individual patients in West Virginia can access much cheaper regular dental treatments at just $366, putting the increase in spend at an eye-watering 650%.

1. Alaska

Alaska comes in with the one of the cheapest per capita spends on regular dental care in the country at just $340. So, while the cost of delayed treatment is similarly low - $2,564 – the percentage increase is stark at 654%.

1. New York

With a low per-capita spend of $340, the cost of delayed treatment in New York averages out at $2,680, meaning those living in New York state who don’t visit the dentist for check-ups and critical preventative care risk spending an eye-watering 688% more on their dental health than those who do. Across the state, that comes in at over $19 million spent on delayed treatments per year!

Should I get dental insurance?

We spoke to Dr. Collin Bowerman to see what they made of our findings.

“Preventative dental care is the number one way to reduce your dental costs in the long run. Think about this – a minor problem, like filling a cavity, might cost you $100 to get fixed. If you ignore it, it won’t go away, and suddenly you could be facing treatments costing $1,000 or more.

“For those with access to it, we would highly recommend investing in dental insurance or a dental savings plan, so you can sidestep major health concerns and protect both your finances and your long-term health. Dental insurance typically covers those routine visits to the dentist, so all you have to do is show up. If you’re not able to invest in dental insurance, many practices – including here at Risas Dental and Braces – offer a variety of payment plans and affordable options to help alleviate your dental care costs. 

“We appreciate that many families across America, for various reasons, can’t access dental insurance. Whatever your financial situation, the best thing you can do for your oral health is to come to the dentist as often as possible.”

To learn more about the different options available to you with Risas Dental and Braces – including 20% off treatments paid in full, a healthcare credit card or a personalized payment plan – please take a look at our payment options. We also offer memberships for individuals, two people or families of up to eight, providing a low-cost alternative to insurance regardless of your income or credit score. 

Top tips to keep your dental spending down

Our experts have put together some ideas for how you can look after your own dental health and access any support that might be available to you. 

1. Stick to a good daily routine by brushing twice daily and flossing. This helps remove plaque, prevent cavities, and keep your gums healthy. Consistency is key to long-term oral health.
2. Keep up with regular check-ups. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams, even if you’re not experiencing any issues. Regular visits help catch potential problems early and keep your smile in top shape.
3. Choose preventive treatments to protect your teeth and reduce the need for more complex treatment down the line.

Remember, no matter how long it’s been since your last visit to the dentist or what shape your teeth are in, our expert team is on-hand to provide personalized oral health care and guidance for you and your family. If you’ve not been to the dentist in a while, we have a video on what to expect and other helpful information on our blog.

Book an appointment now or search our locations with your zip code to see if we have a clinic near you. 

Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile, but before you jump into orthodontic treatment, it’s important to make sure your teeth and gums are in great shape. That means a check-up at your general dentist might be needed first. Most dentists also require a clean bill of health before starting orthodontic care.

Why You May Need Dental Work Before Braces

Braces are great for straightening your teeth. But, if your teeth or gums are already dealing with issues like decay or inflammation, that movement can exacerbate existing problems. From routine cleanings to treating cavities, taking care of your dental health now can help you avoid discomfort and complications later.

A pre-braces dental health assessment typically involves a dental checkup, X-rays, and a dental cleaning.

During this visit, your dentist evaluates if any dental issues need to be addressed before starting orthodontic treatment. Issues that will need to be addressed before starting braces include:

• Cavities
• Gum disease
• Tooth infections
• Plaque buildup

Your doctor will also likely provide suggestions about improving your current oral hygiene practices. Of course, you can still get general dental care during orthodontic treatment, but getting these taken care of ensures your mouth is healthy and ready for the next step.

Preparing for Braces

After you’re cleared for braces, it’s time to prepare for your appointment. Here are some recommendations on how you can prepare:

• Maintain your oral health: Brush twice a day and floss once daily to keep your smile clean. Consider a water flosser if traditional flossing is tough on your gums.
• Switch up your snacks: Some foods like nuts, bagels, or hard candies will be off-limits once your braces are on. Swap them for softer foods ahead of time.
• Make a braces care kit: Gather essential items like orthodontic wax, floss threaders, and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Prepare for soreness: Anticipate some soreness after the braces are applied. Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever before your appointment to help manage any initial discomfort.

Feeling Nervous? It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious about getting braces. Ask all the questions you have, your orthodontist is there to help you feel comfortable.

Taking the First Step With Risas

Book an appointment with Risas as the first step in getting the smile you want. We can ensure your dental work gets completed, discuss financing options for affordable dental care and braces, and offer expert insight every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is a dental checkup necessary before getting braces?

It allows us to treat any existing dental issues before you start your journey. General dental care before braces can include a dental cleaning, dental exam, fluoride treatment, and X-rays.

What kind of dental issues should be resolved before getting braces?

Extractions, cavity fillings and any other oral health issues should be resolved before getting braces put on. This decreases the chances of health problems while you’re wearing braces.

How can I prepare my oral hygiene routine for braces?

The best way to prepare your oral hygiene routine is to stock up on items that could benefit you while you have braces. Look for items that are ADA-approved such as a water flosser and an electric toothbrush.

Will I Need an Extraction Before Braces?

General dental care before braces may consist of getting an extraction. Depending on the state of your mouth, it may actually be beneficial for teeth alignment since it opens more space for your shifting teeth.

How Do I Make Dietary Adjustments for Braces?

It can be tempting to reach for your usual snacks even after getting braces. It may help to eliminate temptation by getting these items out of your kitchen. Toss or give away foods such as popcorn, hard pretzels, peanuts, toffee, raw broccoli, and corn on the cob and replace these items with tasty foods such as applesauce, ice cream, mashed potatoes, or pasta.

How social media is shaping dental trends in America

In a recent study, over a third of Americans (34%) said that they turn to social media for oral health advice. Using platforms like TikTok and Instagram, millions now scroll through health and wellness content daily, seeking dental care tips that they can put into practice at home.

Hashtags like #Dentist (with over 2.4 billion views) and #Teethwhitening (featured in more than 300,000 posts) highlight just how widespread dental content has become. But while some of this content is created by professionals, many trending hacks lack credibility, leading to unsafe and unregulated dental practices.

With this in mind, we’ve done a deep dive into the world of social media dental trends, investigating the overall sentiment across various platforms. With the aim of educating audiences on the importance of safe, expert-backed oral care, we’ll also offer insights on avoiding social media dental traps.

How many people actively seek oral health advice on social media?

Our survey found that 34% of people are seeking oral health advice on social media. Digging deeper, we found that men are slightly more likely to turn to platforms like TikTok and Instagram for advice (37%) compared to around 31% of females.

The generational divide is even more striking. Among Gen Z (roughly those ages 18-24) 53% said that they use social media for dental advice, signaling that younger people are more comfortable in turning to online platforms.

Has social media made people more self-conscious about their smiles?

Social media seems to also be influencing how people feel about their smiles, with 41% admitting that it has made them feel self-conscious. This response was consistent across the board, with 41% of males and 41% of females agreeing.

The 25-34 age group is especially affected, with over half of people admitting that they’ve felt insecure about their teeth after consuming content online. With picture perfect smiles splashed across feeds, it’s no surprise that people are rushing into DIY treatments that promise impressive results.

States and cities with the most negative online sentiment

Online talk around dental trends certainly isn’t always positive, but which states and cities are expressing the most negative sentiment?

Well, Maryland leads the way, with 35.8% of people expressing negativity around dental topics. Close behind we have Wyoming (35.7%) and Louisiana (35.6%), with Idaho and Georgia rounding off the top five (35.0% and 34.7%).

When we narrow the focus down to cities, Baltimore comes in first place (39.6%), with Detroit in second (37.8%). Plenty of people are expressing negative sentiment in Ft. Worth (36.4%) as well as Louisville (36.3%) and Philadelphia, (35.8%).

States and cities with the most online dental conversations 


While some states express dissatisfaction, others are simply more active when it comes to discussing dental care online. The District of Columbia tops the ranking for this, with a huge 350.81 dental-themed conversations per 10,000 residents. Nevada and Florida come in next, with 56.76 and 53.46 conversations, followed by New York (with a score of 50.55). Texas steals the final spot, with 50.12 dental conversations per 10,000.

When we dive into city data, Atlanta stands out, with a whopping 158.72 online conversations per 10,000 residents. Houston comes in second with 106.42, followed by Oklahoma City with 89.01. Rounding things off, we have New York (82.80), and Washington D.C (73.69).

Which social media platforms have the highest share of dental content?

Finally, let’s take a look at the social media platforms with the most dental content circulating. Twitter takes the top spot, with an impressive 13,193,085 dental-related mentions. Of these, 23% had a negative tone, while 45% expressed positive sentiments.

We found 1,418,068 conversations on Reddit, many of which were more critical (38% compared to 21% positive). The platform’s long-form content discussion boards leave plenty of room for dialogue to open up around dental trends, procedures, and costs.

Finally, we found just under half a million (469,682) mentions on YouTube, with more positive conversations featured (41%) than negative (29%).

The importance of avoiding social media dental traps

So, it’s clear that many people are searching for tips to improve their teeth online. However, the only guaranteed way to maintain a healthy, confident smile is by trusting expert-backed care:

“While social media can be a great tool for tips and advice, it’s important to remember that what’s trending isn’t always trustworthy. DIY treatments like at-home whitening can lead to issues such as enamel damage, gum irritation, and long-term sensitivity, so it’s important to stay wary.”

“It might seem convenient and cost-effective to try out a trending hack, but untested products and procedures can actually do more harm than good. Dental professionals, on the other hand, will consider your unique oral history, identifying issues and recommending treatments tailored to your needs. So, for the best possible results, seeking professional care is key.”

With social media shaping real-life dental decisions across the country, Dr. Elizabeth Walton at Risas Dental has pulled together some final insights on how you can spot harmful advice: 

“Be wary of anything trending on social media. If someone promises you, they have discovered a miracle cure for at home whitening, they really found a miracle way to get more "likes" and reposts. There is really no substitute for regular home care such as brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist. Following through on recommendations by your trusted dentist will ensure a healthy lifetime with a happy mouth!”

“If time could be spent doing regular home care, you wouldn't be needing a miracle cure! If you are having problems getting your kid to brush their teeth, don't spend a lot of money on new gadgets.

“Go see your pediatric dentist and learn how to modify the behavior instead. If you see something trending and wonder if it is a good idea, check and see what the ADA or AAPD think.

“In general, don't put anything in your mouth or on your teeth that is abrasive or not safe to swallow. If it not a product endorsed by the ADA, ask your dentist or physician before using it!”

Well, there you have it: our insights on social media dental trends across America. While you may well find some expert-backed tips floating around online, it’s important to stay vigilant for content that’s going to harm rather than help your teeth.

The most important way to ensure you maintain a healthy smile is by scheduling regular checkups. From cleanings to extractions and exams, we offer a variety of services plus personalized, expert oral health guidance here at Risas Dental. Find a location near you and make an appointment today.

A single toothbrush can harbor more than one million bacteria—a shocking statistic when you consider that its purpose is to keep your mouth clean and healthy.

To uncover just how much bacteria is really lurking, the team at Risas Dental conducted an experiment using an advanced ATP bioluminescence testing method. We’ve measured the amount of adenosine triphosphate - a molecule found in and around living cells – on each of our participants’ toothbrushes.

Swabs were taken using Hygiena’s UltraSnap Surface ATP Test and EnSURE Touch monitoring system to provide RLU (Relative Light Unit) readings. And the higher the RLU result, the more bacteria present.

But are there differences between the cleanliness of our male and female participants’ toothbrushes? And what about other areas in their bathrooms? Let’s dive in to find out just how clean (or dirty) the average American toothbrush really is…

How clean are Americans’ toothbrushes?

Our research has uncovered some eye-opening results about the cleanliness of American toothbrushes.

The average RLU level for a toothbrush owned by a female participant sits at 295.5 RLU, while the acceptable range for cleanliness is between just 20-60. We did find variation however, with one toothbrush having a relatively low level of 80, while another showed a level of 3,837 RLU. Other brushes fell in the 134, 161, and 558 RLU range.

But what about our male participants? Well, the average RLU level was slightly lower (coming in at 202.2), yet we also found some significantly high figures. On two of the toothbrushes we swabbed, we found elevated RLU levels of 3,248 and 4,635.

Bathroom cleanliness levels

Next, let’s take a look at the cleanliness levels in our participants’ bathrooms. The average female bathroom RLU score sits at 97.2, while we found a higher average score of 396.4 when swabbing male bathrooms.

Swabbing specific areas like door handles, sinks, and taps also revealed some interesting differences.

Female bathroom door handles are significantly cleaner (98 RLU compared to 457). Similarly, female participants’ bathroom sinks were also noticeably cleaner, with the right side of their sinks showing RLU levels of just 24, while male sinks showed an average of 668. 

While the tap area in our male bathrooms had a slightly lower RLU of 252, female bathroom taps still came in cleaner (120 RLU).

Toothbrush cleanliness: What do the experts have to say?

To gain some professional insight, we asked Dr. Singh, from Winit Clinic, to shed some light on our findings:

“I've seen alarming data with high RLU levels associated with toothbrushes and sink basins. ATP bioluminescence testing provides an excellent measure of organic contamination, and with values as high as 4,635, it is likely that there is extensive presence of micro-organisms such as bacteria and biofilm. With the range for acceptability pegged between 20 and 60 RLU, toothbrushes and their environments are clearly well outside the cleanliness thresholds. This means that, unknowingly, people might be exposing themselves to bacteria every time they brush.”

“One of the most significant risks associated with using a contaminated toothbrush is that it could lead to oral infections. Once the pathogens settle on the bristles, they get introduced into the oral cavity, where they can cause gum disease, contribute to cavities, and even lead to systemic infections in those with low immunity. Long-term use of a contaminated toothbrush could be devastating to the oral microbiome, as it predisposes the mouth to colonization by more pathogenic bacteria, which then results in chronic inflammation of the gums and possibly other mouth-related complications.”

“Cross-contamination is another issue. Having toothbrushes stored in proximity in an unhygienic atmosphere creates the right environment for the bacteria to migrate from one brush to the other. High bacterial loads in shared bathroom spaces can promote the spread of illness-causing germs such as those associated with some gastrointestinal- and airway-tract infections. Since almost all of the places have high ATP, these areas definitely serve as important niches for bacterial growth. This reinforces the need to disinfect toothbrushes frequently, store them upright in a dry place, and replace them every three months or earlier if the bristles become worn or dirty.”

How to maintain optimal toothbrush hygiene

The good news is, with a bit of guidance, keeping your brush clean is relatively easy. Dr David Ryan, DMD at Risas Dental shares some top tips below:

1. Storage matters: “Most people store their toothbrushes in a holder on their sink, however this can expose them to high levels of bacteria. Storing your brush in an upright position, as far away from the toilet as possible, can help reduce bacterial exposure. Also avoid using toothbrush caps, as they can trap in moisture promoting bacterial growth.”
2. Rinsing isn’t enough: “While rinsing your brush after each use is helpful, you’ll need to give it a deeper clean every once in a while, too. Soak it in antibacterial mouthwash or a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution for 3-5 minutes. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly with warm water.”
3. When to replace it: “It’s important to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months (or sooner if the bristles start to fray). A well-worn brush is a breeding ground for bacteria, and it won’t clean your teeth effectively.”

While a clean toothbrush is crucial for your oral health, Dr Ryan also explains how important it is to choose the right type of brush and incorporate additional steps into your routine:

• Choose the right tools: "Not all toothbrushes are created equal, soft-bristled brushes are generally the safest and most effective for removing plaque without damaging your enamel or irritating your gums. Whether manual or electric, what matters most is your technique and consistency."
• Don't brush alone: "Your toothbrush is just one part of complete oral hygiene routine. Be sure to floss daily to remove food and plaque from between your teeth, where your brush can't reach. Adding an antibacterial mouthwash can also help reduce harmful bacteria and keep your breath fresh."
• Keep it personal: "Never share your toothbrush, even with family members, as this can spread germs and increase your risk of infections. Also, make sure each toothbrush in your household is clearly marked to avoid mix-ups."

When in doubt, ask your dentist: "If you're unsure whether you're using the right brush or following the best routine for your specific needs, your dentist can help you customize your oral care for maximum effectiveness."

Well, there we have it: our insights on how clean (or dirty) the average American toothbrush really is.

Brushing plays a key role in keeping our mouths healthy, but its effectiveness relies on proper care, storage, and regular cleaning. So, follow the above tips, and ensure you’re prioritizing brush cleanliness for a healthy smile.

And if you’re due for a check-up soon, find a location near you and book with Risas Dental today. From exams to cleanings and extractions, we offer a variety of affordable services and expert oral health guidance.

Methodology

The tests were conducted using an ATP bioluminescence test, which measures the amount of adenosine triphosphate - a molecule found in and around living cells - on a particular surface, indicating the level of cleanliness.

Swabs were taken using Hygiena’s UltraSnap Surface ATP Test and EnSURE Touch monitoring system to determine RLU results.

America's Smile Report

Americans are famous for their dazzling smiles, with straight, white teeth often seen as a cultural hallmark. From Hollywood stars with their red-carpet-ready grins to everyday Americans who prioritize a shining set, a confident smile is attributed to health, happiness, and even success. 

But are all Americans proud of their smiles? And are some states more focused on achieving a gleaming grin than others? We’ve conducted a survey of 2000 US consumers to find out! Asking about everything from hygiene habits to annual dentist visits, we’ve collected data to uncover the truth about American teeth. Intrigued? Dive into a full rundown of the survey results below! 

The truth about America's teeth: dental habits, costs, and cosmetic trends

Maintaining a healthy smile involves more than just brushing - regular visits to the dentist and a thorough oral hygiene routine are essential too. But how good really are Americans at taking care of their teeth? Here’s what we discovered: 

Dental hygiene habits 

Our survey revealed that 63% of Americans brush their teeth twice a day or more, with 37% brushing less regularly. Interestingly, 31% of men are also only brushing once a day. 

Flossing habits show a similar trend, with 42% of Americans flossing daily, and 24% flossing less regularly. We also found that women are 13% more likely to floss than men, with 19% of those in the 55-64 age bracket not flossing at all. 

However, it’s clear that people aren’t always honest about their dental hygiene habits, in fact, 77% of participants believe patients tend to exaggerate about their at-home routine. We found that 82% of younger participants fib to some degree, and men (80%) are more likely to exaggerate than women (74%). 

Visits to the dentist and dental procedures 

As well as home hygiene, we also asked about trips to the dentist and professional care. We found that 45% of our participants go for a check-up every six months, while 20% only visit when a problem arises. 

And what about procedures like fillings and crowns? Well, the average American has five fillings, 88% have at least one, and 98% of those 65+ have multiple. 31% have also had braces or clear aligners fitted in the pursuit of a perfectly straight smile. 

The cost of dental care 

Paying for dental treatments can be a struggle for many, with 53% of our participants relying on insurance, 27% using credit cards, and 14% dipping into their savings. Almost half agreed that the cost of treatment is a significant barrier (with younger Americans being far less likely to have insurance than older generations).

Overall, 63% of Americans are missing teeth, have crowns, and implants, and 80% of those aged 55+ have some degree of tooth loss. It’s a different story for younger participants however, with 67% of 18-24-year-olds still having all their natural teeth. 

Cosmetic dentistry and whitening trends 

On average, Americans are rating their smiles six out of ten, and amongst male participants, this rises to a seven. 30% of Americans are happy with their natural teeth, with more men (33%) than women (25%) having confidence in their smile. 

Having said this, 53% would consider cosmetic dentistry (such as veneers or bonding) if they had the funds. We found that they’d gladly spend upwards of $1,550.33 to improve the appearance of their smile!

While 71% have never had any professional whitening, 28% use at-home whitening strips or toothpaste to keep their teeth nice and bright. When it comes to gender and age, women are 32% more likely to use strips than men, and 82% of those aged 55+ have never had their teeth whitened. 

How do the results vary by location? 

We don’t all have naturally flawless teeth or the means to achieve a Hollywood smile, but are some states happier with their teeth than others? Dive into our regional insights below: 

Phoenix, Arizona 

66% of Arizona residents brush their teeth twice a day, with 51% also regularly flossing (two essential habits to implement if you want a shining smile). Having said this, 75% of people are convinced that dental hygiene routines are exaggerated. 

When it comes to visiting the dentist in Phoenix, we discovered that 39% go for a checkup at least every six months, yet 24% are less thorough, only visiting when a problem arises. The averageArizona resident has five fillings, with 89% having at least one. And when it comes to paying for procedures, 53% rely on dental insurance, with 12% dipping into savings.  

In Arizona, 36% love their natural teeth, and 30% use whitening strips to achieve their desired smiles. Overall, the average resident rates their smile a strong seven out of ten, with 41% saying they would consider cosmetic work to improve it further.

Denver, Colorado 

In places like Denver, residents also rate their smile satisfaction seven out of ten. 58% brush their teeth twice a day (sometimes even more), with 48% flossing daily too. 

When it comes to fillings, the average resident has four, with 85% having at least one. 48% of people have also had braces or clear aligners with the hopes of straightening out their smiles. 

Just over half of people go for regular check-ups, and most rely on insurance to cover the costs of inspections and treatment. On average, residents are willing to spend around $2,302.08 on cosmetic work at a Denver dentist, suggesting they place high importance on their smile’s appearance.

San Antonio, Texas 

How do results vary amongst those in Texas? Well, 59% brush their teeth twice a day or more, with a further 41% flossing daily. 37% go to the dentist for a check-up every six months, yet a huge 77% of residents believe people exaggerate about their hygiene routine. 

27% have had clear aligners or traditional braces, and 29% use whitening toothpaste or strips to achieve their desired smiles. 21% have had a crown or an implant, and the average resident has had five fillings. 

People visiting a San Antonio dentist seem to be less willing to spend money on cosmetic work ($1,477.72), with 32% preferring their natural smiles.Overall, those in the state rate their smile six out of ten, coming in slightly less than Arizona and Colorado.  

Las Vegas, Nevada 

Those in Nevada rate their smiles seven out of ten on average. Although when quizzed about their dental hygiene habits, we found that 50% of Nevada residents don’t brush twice a day. On top of this, a whopping 88% believe that people exaggerate their hygiene habits at the dentist. 

The average resident has six fillings, with 27% having crowns or implants too. 46% have also had braces or clear aligners, with the same amount going for a check-up every six months. But what about teeth whitening trends in the area? Well, instead of visiting a Las Vegas dentist for professional whitening, 19% rely on at-home methods to achieve a pearly smile. 

So, while many Americans are attentive to their dental hygiene, others aren’t brushing or flossing as regularly as necessary to maintain a healthy smile. The cost of dental care also remains a barrier for many, especially amongst younger patients…  

“While many clearly prioritize a stellar smile, our survey found that 1/3 of Americans aren’t brushing twice a day, and 13% are failing to floss altogether. Yet if you want a healthy, gleaming smile, these are two oral hygiene habits you’ll need to implement. Regular check-ups and honesty at appointments are also crucial, allowing you to nip problems in the bud before they progress into anything painful or costly.” 

Eager to achieve a Hollywood smile at home? Here are some additional expert tips on how to care for your teeth. Dr. Collin Bowerman, Chief Dental Officer at Risas reveals simple at-home hacks to help your smile.

1. Consistency is key to help your maintain your smile. Brushing and flossing regularly is the secret to a confident smile. If you only do it occasionally, you won’t get the full benefits. Making oral hygiene a daily habit means you’re more likely to feel good about showing off your teeth. 

 2. Make it part of your morning and evening routine! Keep your toothbrush and floss next to something you always use—like your skincare products or coffee maker—as a reminder to stay consistent.

 3. Upgrade your routine for a cleaner feel. Using an electric toothbrush, a good toothpaste, and mouthwash can take your oral care to the next level. Brushing for two minutes, followed by mouthwash (used as directed on the bottle), leaves your mouth feeling ultra-fresh.

Well, there we have it: our insights on the states with the best smiles as well as how to keep yours in tip-top condition. From brushing and flossing to scheduling regular appointments, there are a variety of things you can do to ensure you have a smile you’re proud of. 

Risas Dental offers a variety of affordable dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions, braces and more. For more information on available treatments locally, visit https://risasdental.com/locations/

Methodology 

US survey of 2,000 consumers conducted by 3Gem.