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Survey reveals 1 in 5 haven’t had a dental visit in at least 5 years

NEW YORK — “Yes, I floss every day.” It’s perhaps the most common lie told in dentist offices across America. As it turns out, most of us aren’t being entirely honest when we sit in that chair. A recent survey found that more than half of Americans admit to fibbing about their dental habits during checkups.

This pattern of small dental deceptions reveals how we really feel about going to the dentist: a mix of guilt, anxiety, and the strong desire to avoid judgment when someone is peering into our mouths.

Are You Lying Through Your Teeth?

The survey of 2,000 Americans, conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Aspen Dental, found a whopping 57% of Americans have lied to their dentist about their dental hygiene during appointments. The motivation? Sixty percent confessed they simply wanted to impress their dentist during office visits.

These dental deceptions don’t come without emotional consequences. Nearly two-thirds (64%) reported feeling guilty about their dishonesty. Interestingly, the survey found generational differences in this guilt, with millennials (31%) and Gen X (29%) feeling the least remorse about their dental dishonesty compared to older Americans.

Diving deeper into the reasons behind dental dishonesty, the survey uncovered interesting psychological motivations. Among those who admitted to lying to their dentist, a third (33%) said they simply didn’t want their dentist to think less of them.

Meanwhile, a fifth (19%) described their falsehoods as unintentional “panic lies” that accidentally slip out during appointments. This phenomenon was particularly common among Gen Z respondents, who reported more panic lies to dentists than other generations (27%).

Despite the prevalence of these white lies, many patients suspect their attempts at deception fall flat. Nearly half (48%) believe their dentist can see right through their fabrications about flossing and brushing habits.

The Reality of Oral Hygiene in America

So what are Americans really doing (or not doing) when it comes to dental care? The numbers tell the story. Over half of respondents (53%) admitted they don’t regularly floss. Dentists seeing bleeding gums despite hearing “I floss every day” now have the stats to back up their skepticism.

Brushing habits aren’t much better. Nearly seven in 10 Americans (68%) brush their teeth for less than the dentist-recommended two minutes. Most people are cutting corners on basic dental care, which explains why so many feel the need to stretch the truth during checkups.

The neglect of proper dental care manifests in physical discomfort for many Americans. Nearly a quarter of respondents (22%) experience discomfort or soreness in their mouths at least once per week. Millennials reported experiencing this oral discomfort more frequently than other generations, with 34% noting weekly issues.

Despite these warning signs, many continue to avoid professional care.

The study showed that many Americans have strong negative feelings about dental visits. Fear, anxiety, and discomfort were commonly reported, and these feelings often cause people to put off seeing the dentist – sometimes for years at a time.

Anxiety emerged as the top reason keeping Americans from visiting the dentist, cited by nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents. Women (29%) reported significantly higher levels of dental anxiety than men (17%).

Beyond general anxiety, specific aspects of dental care keep people away. Twenty-two percent of respondents pointed to the actual dental work as their primary deterrent, with baby boomers expressing the most discomfort with dental procedures (25%). Meanwhile, 13% have avoided dental appointments altogether because they’re embarrassed about their poor dental hygiene.

These avoidance behaviors have real consequences. The survey found that 45% of Americans have not visited a dentist in the last year. Even more concerning, nearly one in five Americans (19%) haven’t seen a dentist in five years or more!

The Quest for Dental Harmony

The cycle of dental appointments often follows a predictable pattern: patients leave with renewed determination to maintain better dental hygiene. However, this motivation appears remarkably short-lived. According to the survey, these good dental hygiene habits last only eight days, on average, before people slip back into their old routines.

“Maintaining adequate oral health can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to have a dentist who you feel comfortable connecting with, who shows empathy and leaves all judgement at the door,” said Dr. Taylor Sutton, multi-practice owner and practicing dentist at Aspen Dental.

Finding this ideal dental relationship proves challenging for many Americans. The survey found that 37% of respondents believe finding a skilled and trustworthy dentist is nearly impossible. Similarly, 34% expressed difficulty in finding a dental hygienist they trust.

Dr. Sutton emphasized the importance of accessibility in dental care: “Everyone wants access to high-quality, non-complicated dental care, but many said that finding a skilled and trustworthy dentist (37%) and dental hygienist (34%) is nearly impossible. It’s important to us that everyone is able to receive excellent, quality care that’s convenient, comfortable and no-nonsense.”

The search continues for many, with 30% of respondents actively looking for their perfect dental match.

Health Priorities and Misconceptions

While the vast majority of Americans (89%) acknowledge the importance of regular dental appointments, dental care still takes a backseat to other medical concerns for many. Almost half of respondents (48%) prioritize doctor visits over dental appointments.

This prioritization may reflect a disconnect in understanding how oral health connects to overall well-being. Dr. Tracy Redden, multi-practice owner and practicing dentist at Aspen Dental, addressed this misconception directly: “Oral care is not just about maintaining a beautiful smile, it’s a crucial part of overall health and well-being. Neglecting oral hygiene — whatever your reason — can lead to serious health issues. Your mouth is the gateway to your body that can affect your overall health. Maintaining oral health is not a choice, but a necessity for our overall wellbeing.”

What these survey results really show is that Americans know they should take better care of their teeth, but anxiety and embarrassment get in the way. Despite understanding the importance of good dental hygiene, many of us still skip flossing, rush through brushing, and avoid dental visits.

For now, the pattern continues in dental offices everywhere: hygienists ask about flossing habits, patients give slightly embellished answers, and dentists deliver those familiar reminders about proper care. We all know the script, even as many of us continue to avoid the dentist’s chair until absolutely necessary.