West Virginia Sees Significant Improvement in Dentist-to-Patient Ratios, Study Finds

Across the U.S., most states reported similar progress, with Mississippi leading in dentist-to-patient improvements. Only Delaware and Rhode Island saw no gains in access to dental care.

At the county level, the study identified Ritchie County as the most improved in West Virginia, with a 1,514-person reduction in its dentist-to-patient ratio. Other counties showing significant progress include:

🔹 Brooke County (-1,204)

🔹 Wyoming County (-1,092)

🔹 Nicholas County (-746)

🔹 Wirt County (-739)

Meanwhile, McDowell County ranked the lowest, seeing an increase of 1,394 people per dentist, highlighting continued challenges in access to care. Other counties struggling with dental availability include:

🔹 Hardy County (+870)

🔹 Lincoln County (+855)

🔹 Jackson County (+380)

🔹 Mineral County (+290)

Oral health is a critical part of overall well-being, influencing everything from cavity prevention and gum health to lowering risks for heart disease and diabetes. While these numbers signal progress, gaps remain in rural and underserved areas, where residents still face challenges accessing affordable dental care.

Continued efforts in dental education, rural health programs, and state-level initiatives are crucial to further reducing disparities and ensuring all West Virginians have access to quality oral healthcare.

For more insights, visit the full study by MyBioSource: Dental Divide Report.