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FLORIDA - A new study highlights growing concerns about dental health in Florida, with the Sunshine State ranking fifth worst in the nation for oral hygiene.
According to data from Risas Dental, Florida residents fall short when it comes to daily dental care.
The study focused on two key habits: brushing teeth twice a day and flossing daily, both essential for preventing oral diseases and reducing risks of serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
In Florida, 62% of people reportedly do not floss every day, while 38% fail to brush twice daily.
Overall, researchers found that 50% of Floridians exhibit poor dental hygiene.
Nationally, Indiana was ranked as the state with the worst oral health, where 66% skip daily flossing and 44% do not brush their teeth twice each day.
The spotlight on Florida’s dental health comes amid a heated debate over fluoride use in drinking water.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava recently pledged to veto a proposal to eliminate fluoride from the county’s water supply after consultations with doctors, dentists, and public health experts.
Meanwhile, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo has supported efforts to remove fluoride, and a bill banning it from the state’s water supply has advanced to a full Senate vote.
Dr. Elizabeth Walton, a pediatric dentist, emphasized the importance of fluoride in dental care, noting that her practice uses fluoride varnishes with lower concentrations to strike a balanced approach.
With declining oral health habits and policy shifts looming, experts warn Florida could see even greater dental health challenges ahead.