Oral health trends and dental care recommendations

Recent data and expert advice highlight significant trends and risks regarding oral health. In Slovenia, statistics from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia indicate that 38 percent of residents aged 16 and older did not visit a dentist at all in the twelve months preceding a 2025 survey. This lack of regular check-ups is concerning, as dental professionals can identify issues like caries, gum disease, and early signs of oral or pharyngeal cancer before symptoms appear.

Regarding daily habits, Dr. Sasha Ross of the Cleveland Clinic suggests that chewing sugar-free gum for 10 to 15 minutes after meals can be beneficial. This practice stimulates saliva production, which helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids. However, experts warn against excessive chewing, which can lead to jaw pain, headaches, or tooth fractures. Individuals with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) or extensive dental restorations should exercise particular caution.

To maintain oral hygiene, health experts recommend brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, using interdental cleaners, and limiting sugar intake.