🔥 Statistics show need for more dental care

In this edition:

• 🔥 Statistics show need for more dental care

• 💸 ADA advocates for expanded HSA reimbursement

• 📞 When to refer to a Periodontist

• And more!

Statistics show need for more dental care

Despite advances in orthodontic solutions like invisible braces and teeth aligners, millions of people still struggle with maintaining dental and oral hygiene. In fact, one-quarter of U.S. adults ages 20 to 64 have at least one untreated cavity, according to dental statistics from the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC).

What’s more, oral health issues can manifest into other health concerns when left untreated, but learning about dental facts and daily oral hygiene practices can deter those problems. Read on for facts about teeth, common dental issues and more.

ADA advocates for expanded HSA reimbursement

The ADA is supporting a new bill that would allow health savings account and flexible spending account reimbursement eligibility for over-the-counter oral health care products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss. 

“Oral health care products are not only essential for good oral health but for health in general,” the ADA said in a letter signed by ADA President Linda J. Edgar, D.D.S., and Executive Director Raymond Cohlmia, D.D.S. “Americans should not be taxed on products like toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss that are necessary for maintaining their health.”

The letter, which was addressed to Reps. Nicole Malliotakis, R-NY, Jeff Van Drew, R-NJ, and Brad Schneider, D-Ill., noted the bill would allow menstrual care products and oral health care products to be eligible for HSA and FSA reimbursement. The ADA expressed appreciation to Rep. Van Drew for the leadership he’s shown on this topic as well as other oral health issues.