Dental visits connected to better health and well-being

Dental Tribune International

Tue. 22. July 2025

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WASHINGTON, US: While the links between oral and systemic health are well established and widely discussed in the dental literature, the broader relationship between oral health and overall quality of life—beyond clinical function and symptoms—has received comparatively less emphasis, and there is growing interest in this area. According to new findings from the Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index, adults in the US who visit a dentist at least once a year report significantly better health and well-being than those who do not.

The data, gathered from nearly 12,000 adults surveyed between November 2024 and February 2025, underscores the vital role oral health plays in overall quality of life. Forty-two per cent of adults who had a dental visit in the past 12 months rated their health as “excellent” or “very good”, compared with just 26% of those who had not. This association extended beyond self-rated health, influencing key indicators such as daily energy, productivity and life satisfaction.

While annual household income remains the strongest predictor of whether someone visits the dentist—only 46% of adults earning under US$24,000 (€22,882^*) do so, versus 86% of those earning US$180,000 or more—the benefits of dental visits hold across all income brackets. Even in lower-income groups, those who see a dentist report better health and well-being than their counterparts who do not.

The study also highlights several barriers to dental care. Adults without a personal doctor, health insurance or enough food are significantly less likely to have had a recent dental visit. Smokers and individuals facing mental health challenges, such as loneliness or lack of social support, are similarly less likely to seek care. The researchers noted that the relationship is likely bidirectional: poor oral health may negatively affect self-esteem and mental health, and social and emotional challenges can reduce motivation for self-care, including dental hygiene.

The findings present a call to action for community leaders and dental professionals. Expanding access to affordable or pro bono dental care in low-income areas could not only improve oral health, but also support broader health and well-being.

Considering that 71% of US adults reported a dental visit in the past year, the study findings reinforce the critical message that maintaining regular oral care is not just about teeth; it is a foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling life. The study confirms something about which dentistry is now becoming increasingly aware, namely, that the benefits of maintaining good oral health extend to the entirety of an individual’s physical and psychological well-being.

Editorial note:

^* Calculated on the OANDA platform for 26 November 2024.