Online Misinformation Fuels Dental Fears Among Younger Generations, Endodontists Warn
A new survey by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) reveals a growing concern among dental professionals: online misinformation is significantly impacting younger generations’ perceptions and decisions regarding oral health. The survey highlights a stark contrast in dental anxieties between younger adults and the general population, with nearly half of Gen Z (48%) and Millennials (46%) expressing fear of root canals, compared to 38% overall. This fear is largely attributed to the proliferation of misleading information online, with 40% of Gen Z and 36% of Millennials struggling to differentiate between fact and fiction in the digital realm. This trend aligns with the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, which found that 45% of 18-34 year-olds rely on uncertified online sources for health advice, with over half later regretting decisions based on such information.
The AAE emphasizes the potential consequences of this online misinformation, warning that it is deterring young adults from seeking routine dental care. Nearly half of the Gen Z and Millennial respondents admitted to visiting the dentist only when experiencing pain, significantly increasing their risk of developing serious tooth decay and other health complications. The survey underscores the importance of regular dental checkups for preventative care and early detection of potential issues. Dr. Steven J. Katz, President of the AAE, expressed concern that these fears, fueled by misinformation, could lead to more severe dental problems down the line. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between credible dental advice and online myths.
The AAE survey sheds light on the widespread misconceptions surrounding root canal treatment, a procedure often demonized online. While online narratives paint a grim picture, the reality is that root canal treatment is a routinely successful procedure designed to alleviate dental pain and save natural teeth. It involves removing infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing the space with a filling. The survey revealed a positive perception of the procedure among those who have undergone it, with 71% expressing satisfaction with their decision to choose a root canal over tooth extraction. In contrast, the survey found that tooth extractions evoke considerable anxiety, with 29% of respondents stating they would rather experience the flu than undergo an extraction.
The survey further reveals the pervasiveness of misinformation and mistrust in online health resources. Nearly one-third of adults (30%) admitted to struggling to discern fact from fiction when researching dental health online. This susceptibility to misinformation, according to Dr. Katz, creates an environment where influencers and unreliable sources can easily spread false narratives, impacting not only dental health decisions but overall health choices as well. The survey’s findings highlight the critical need for increased media literacy and the promotion of evidence-based dental information.
The AAE survey also exposes a disconnect between individuals’ desire to maintain their natural teeth and their actual dental hygiene practices. While 94% of adults surveyed expressed the importance of preserving their natural teeth, over half (58%) confessed to not flossing daily. This inconsistency underscores the importance of educating the public about the significance of proper oral hygiene habits in achieving long-term dental health. Furthermore, the survey revealed a troubling trend of relying on questionable sources for dental advice. Although the majority (85%) trusted dental professionals, a significant portion (23%) indicated they would trust a Google search, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals to online misinformation.
The survey also delved into common dental anxieties and misconceptions. A significant majority (74%) expressed fear of losing or injuring their teeth, with 58% believing that a knocked-out tooth cannot be saved. This misconception contradicts the reality that prompt dental attention can often salvage a knocked-out tooth, especially in children. Annually, over five million teeth are knocked out, with children under ten being particularly susceptible. The survey also addressed common dental trauma culprits. While 85% of respondents acknowledged the harmful effects of hard candy on teeth, fewer recognized the potential dental risks associated with popcorn (44%) and nuts (37%). Nearly half (49%) reported experiencing a chipped tooth from consuming hard foods, underscoring the need for greater awareness of these risks. The AAE emphasizes the importance of seeking professional dental advice and maintaining good oral hygiene practices to minimize the risk of dental injuries and maintain long-term oral health. The survey’s findings serve as a call to action for dental professionals, public health organizations, and social media platforms to collaboratively combat the spread of misinformation and promote accurate, evidence-based dental information.