Purpose
Oral Health Data includes indicators of adult oral health.
Overview
Oral Health Data includes the following adult indicators from the National Oral Health Surveillance System (NOHSS):
- Dental Visit. Percentage of adults aged 18+ who have visited a dentist or dental clinic in the past year.
- Teeth Cleaning. Percentage of adults aged 18+ who have had their teeth cleaned in the past year (among adults with natural teeth who have ever visited a dentist or dental clinic). Please note: Data for this indicator are not available after 2010.
- Complete Tooth Loss. Percentage of adults aged 65+ who have lost all their natural teeth due to tooth decay or gum disease.
- Lost 6 or More Teeth. Percentage of adults aged 65+ who have lost six or more of their natural teeth due to tooth decay or gum disease.
Surveys used
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is a system of telephone surveys that collect data representative of the adult population in states and other jurisdictions. Survey topics include health-related risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, and use of preventive services. Oral health data are collected in even-numbered years. Three of the indicators mentioned above (Dental Visit, Complete Tooth Loss, and Lost 6 or more Teeth) are also included as Chronic Disease Indicators.