Just over two thirds (69%) of UK adults brush their teeth twice a day, whilst 2% admit they never brush.
That’s according to the results from a Yougov survey, on behalf of Simplyhealth Professionals, which also found a third of adults (37%) never floss, with the main reason being they find it boring (27%).
Furthermore, 7% of respondents say they never visit the dentist.
‘With the busy lifestyles that people lead, it’s tempting to skip brushing or flossing, or delay visits to the dentist,’ Henry Clover, chief dental officer at Simplyhealth Professionals, said.
‘A good oral health routine is an essential everyday activity that helps to protect against tooth decay and gum disease.
‘Moreover, with studies increasingly finding links between poor oral health and conditions such as heart disease, strokes and diabetes, looking after your oral health is important for your general health too.’
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Children’s oral health
Around a fifth (22%) of parents with children under 18 say their child brushes their teeth once a day or less
And 2% of parents claim their child never brushes, the survey found, leading to 46% saying their child had their first filling before they were seven years old.
The survey also found that 83% of adults never check their mouths for signs of oral cancer.
‘Regular visits to the dentist can help to spot the early signs of mouth cancer, but it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and any changes that you see or feel in your mouth between dental appointments,’ Henry continues.
‘These can include unusual lumps or swellings in the mouth or head and neck area; ulcers that don’t heal within three weeks; and red and white patches in the mouth.’
