New National Public Opinion Survey Reveals Important Findings on Oral Health Care P...( The Public Speaks Up on Oral Health...),Health

The Public Speaks Up on Oral Health Care: An ADA and Crest/Oral-B Survey

Unveiled at the American Dental Association Annual Session

SAN ANTONIO, Oct. 17, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Dental Association (ADA(R)), in collaboration with Crest(R) and Oral-B(R), yesterday revealed findings from a national public opinion survey on oral health care.

Here is a sneak peek at the key learnings:

1. While eight of 10 Americans say taking care of one's mouth, teeth and

gums is "absolutely needed," only one-third of them say they do an

"excellent" job taking care of them.

2. One parent in four says his or her kids do only a "fair" or "poor" job

taking care of their own mouth, teeth and gums.

3. Americans deem the smile the most important physical attribute but do

not realize a beautiful smile is not always a healthy smile and can

mask underlying oral health problems. More than one in three Americans

say:

-- They think a little bleeding from brushing is normal (33%), yet it's

not. It could be a sign of gum disease or something even worse.

-- They are unaware that periodontal disease needs to be treated and

cannot be left alone (33%).

-- They don't know that poor oral health has been associated with

serious health conditions such as stroke, heart disease and diabetes

(37%).

"This survey helps dentists understand opinions their patients may not be sharing, opinions that provide an opportunity to address perception versus reality when it comes to oral health," said Ada Cooper, D.D.S., Consumer Advisor for the ADA and a practicing dentist in NY.

"These findings further strengthen our dedication to helping all Americans achieve good oral health through the products and education we offer," said Leslie Winston, D.D.S., Ph.D., director of Professional and Scientific Relations, Pro
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