Brace yourselves for this one: Texans have among the worst dental health in the country, a recent study found.
A 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 35.5% of U.S. adults hadn’t had a dental exam or cleaning within the previous year. While some intentionally avoid the dentist due to fear and anxiety, others find themselves unable to afford the steep bills often associated with visits to the dentist.
Although brushing, flossing and annual cleanings are critical to dental health, where a person lives can also have a significant impact. Some parts of the U.S. have disproportionately more dental professionals than others. Access to fluoridated water — which helps prevent tooth decay — also varies by state.