New Report from the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health Finds Adults with ADHD at Greater Risk for Poor Oral Health

A new report from the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health reveals that adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at higher risk for poor oral health compared to those without ADHD, per a press release from CareQuest. According to the data, 35.5% of adults with ADHD rated their oral health as fair or poor, significantly more than the 24.9% of adults without ADHD who reported the same. The report also found that adults with ADHD experience greater embarrassment about the condition of their teeth and gums, with 48.4% reporting frequent or occasional embarrassment, compared to just 29.6% of adults without ADHD.

The third annual State of Oral Health Equity in America (SOHEA) survey, from which these findings are drawn, is the largest national survey that explores adult attitudes, behaviors, and experiences related to oral health. The data indicate that adults with ADHD are more likely to delay dental care, with 40.4% of respondents saying they had not visited a dentist in over a year, compared to 31.9% of those without ADHD. When they do seek care, adults with ADHD are more likely to turn to emergency departments for urgent dental issues. In the past year, 13% of adults with ADHD visited an emergency room for dental care, compared to just 2.3% of adults without ADHD.

Additionally, the report highlights that discrimination in dental settings is more common among adults with ADHD, with 11.7% saying they had experienced it, compared to 7% of those without ADHD. This group also reported significantly higher levels of dental anxiety, which can lead to further delays in seeking preventive care.

Leslie Carver, chief operating officer at CareQuest Institute, stressed the importance of addressing these disparities in oral health care. "These new data illustrate some of the many disparities that exist in oral health and the need to work toward a more accessible and equitable system,” Carver said. Carver also emphasized the need for dental professionals to be mindful of the unique challenges faced by adults with ADHD, noting that while not all individuals with ADHD struggle with oral health, many are at risk for poorer outcomes.

The findings underline the importance of understanding the specific barriers adults with ADHD face in maintaining good oral health, including difficulties with routine self-care, managing appointments, and dental-related anxiety. CareQuest advocates for more awareness among oral health professionals to better support patients with ADHD in achieving optimal dental health.