A new study has revealed which U.S. states are leading the way in dental care and which are lagging. The research, conducted by Celebrate Dental and Braces, evaluated dental health trends between 2020 and 2022, using eight key metrics to rank each state. Among the factors analyzed were the percentage of adults who visit the dentist, smoking rates, binge drinking, and access to dental professionals.
Methodology
The study’s findings are based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Lung Association, covering the years 2020 to 2022. States were ranked using 8 metrics: the number of dentists per 100,000 residents, the percentage of adults who visited the dentist in the past year, adult smoking rates, public water fluoridation, and the prevalence of binge drinking, among others. Scores ranged from 0 to 10 for each factor, with the results combined to create an overall score out of 100.
Top Scoring States
Connecticut has earned the distinction of having the best dental care in the U.S., with a score of 77.87 out of 100. The state excelled in several key areas, including dentist visits and water fluoridation. In 2020, 73.2% of Connecticut residents visited the dentist, earning the state a score of 9.15. Additionally, Connecticut boasts a high rate of fluoridation, with 90.4% of its public water systems treated to help reduce tooth decay, resulting in a score of 8.96.
“There are many benefits to good dental hygiene that are beyond just your smile,” says Kelcey Loveland, DMD, MS, of Celebrate Dental and Braces, indicating that Connecticut is leading the charge in promoting these practices. “Annual trips to the dentist, at a minimum, are essential to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy, and your overall health is preserved.”
Utah came in second place with a score of 76.35, benefiting from the lowest adult smoking rate in the country at just 6.7%, which contributed to a high score of 10. Utah residents also prioritize dental care, with 73% visiting the dentist in 2022, earning an additional 9.04 points.
Maryland ranked third with a score of 75.06. The state stands out for its number of dentists — 71 per 100,000 residents — and relatively low binge drinking rate, with only 14.4% of residents reporting excessive alcohol consumption.
Hawaii, which boasts the highest dental visit rate in the country — 79.03% in 2020 — took the fourth spot with a score of 74.11. The state also ranked first in terms of the percentage of adults over 65 who had not lost all their teeth due to decay or disease. Massachusetts followed closely behind in fifth place with a score of 72.74, thanks to the highest number of dentists per capita in the nation — 84 per 100,000 people.
Bottom of the Barrel
On the other spectrum, Arkansas ranks as the state with the worst dental care, receiving a score of just 23.94. The state’s poor performance is due to several factors, including a low number of dentists (41 per 100,000 residents) and a low dental visit rate of only 40.85%. Arkansas also scored zero for the percentage of adults who attended the dentist in 2020.
West Virginia ranked second worst with a score of 24.91. The state has a high adult smoking rate of 21%, contributing to its low score for oral health. West Virginians also face limited access to dentists, with only 48 per 100,000 residents.
Mississippi came in third worst with a score of 26.63, hindered by a lack of dental professionals and poor dental attendance, with just 57.7% of adults visiting the dentist in 2020. Louisiana and Tennessee rounded out the bottom 5 states, scoring 28.61 and 34.53, respectively, with low levels of water fluoridation and limited access to dental care.
Key Habits Behind Healthy Smiles
Loveland offers several insights into the habits that contribute to the best dental care. “Although the dentist can seem daunting and is a great fear for some, regular checks can help prevent or treat issues that could get progressively worse if left alone,” she says. “Brushing and flossing daily and maintaining regular dentist appointments will help maintain good oral hygiene.”
Loveland also warns against the dangers of smoking, which can not only stain teeth but also lead to serious conditions like gum disease and even mouth cancer. “Cutting out the habit will undoubtedly reduce the harmful impacts cigarettes can have on your teeth, gums, and body,” she adds.
Regarding alcohol, Loveland emphasizes moderation. “It is important to moderate your alcohol consumption and practice good oral hygiene, as drinking excessive amounts can erode your tooth enamel and increase sensitivity,” she says. “Many alcoholic drinks, such as wine, beer, and cider, are also high in acidity and sugar, contributing to discoloration and tooth damage.”
