Results from a 2008 Gallup-Healthways poll found that 42% of Hispanics did not visit the dentist in the previous 12 months, compared to 29% of all Americans, according to a press release from Procter & Gamble.
Gallup found that over half of those making less than $2,000 a month reported omitting visits as well, according to a USA Today report.
"Skipping regular dental care is risky and can lead to serious and costly tooth and gum problems in the long run," said Cesar Sabates, D.D.S., vice president of the Florida Dental Association, in the release. The association is collaborating with Crest Pro-Health to raise oral care awareness in the Hispanic community.
"It is unfortunate to see that, due to the current financial situation, many Hispanics have had to forgo their visits to the dentist, but they should know that investing pennies a day on the proper toothpaste can lower the risk of potential oral health problems in the future," said Anelsie Ramos, external relations manager for Procter & Gamble, in the release. "We hope to encourage members of the Hispanic community to maintain good dental care habits at home so they can have a healthy, beautiful smile."
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