Half of adults are cutting corners when it comes to their dental care – with a fifth opting for a quick swig of mouthwash over brushing their teeth. A survey of 2,000 adults found that 45% neglect to floss, 41% only brush once daily, and 12% have previously resorted to using their finger as a makeshift toothbrush.

Nearly two in 10 brush their teeth for half or less of the recommended two-minute duration, merely freshening their breath rather than thoroughly cleaning their teeth. The reasons cited include laziness, being pressed for time, and feeling unwell. What’s more, one in 10 confess to never having cleaned between their teeth with floss or similar products throughout their adult life.

Rosemarie Maka, from Philips Sonicare, which commissioned the study, commented: “Cutting corners when it comes to oral hygiene is something a lot of adults do – whether they admit it or not. But neglecting your oral hygiene can have huge health impacts, which is something people don’t realise until it’s too late.”

The research also revealed that 79% believe individuals are judged based on their oral hygiene and the appearance of their teeth. With 42% presuming someone doesn’t take care of themselves if they have discoloured teeth, bad breath, or other oral issues.

The OnePoll.com data also discovered that 23% think poor oral hygiene has previously prevented them from doing things like talking to people (46%), going on a date (29%), and posting photos on social media showing their teeth (27%).

Nearly half even suggest that this could affect their romantic relationships, and 38% believe the same about their employability. However, it was revealed that only a quarter visit the dentist once a year, while 34% confess they have never seen a hygienist – with one in 10 admitting they don’t even know what one is.

As a result of poor oral hygiene, 41% have had a filling, 27% a tooth extraction, and 17% root canal treatment. Yet, 72% believe the state of their oral hygiene is generally healthy.

Philips Sonicare has teamed up with The Hygiene Bank charity to donate £1 from each of its toothbrushes sold through Boots. Dr Nilesh Parmar from the brand stated: “Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the simplest ways to protect your overall health.”

“Neglecting your daily brush, floss or even hygienist check-up can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and can even be linked to heart disease and other serious health conditions,” he added.

“I recommend to my patients to use an electric brush with an in-built two-minute timer or go back to basics and listen to a song that lasts two minutes while brushing or using an egg timer in the bathroom to track time.”

TOP FIVE TIPS TO LOOK AFTER YOUR ORAL HYGIENE:

Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day

Most people brush for less than a minute that’s not enough. Aim for 2 full minutes, ideally morning and before bed, to ensure thorough cleaning.

Use a fluoride toothpaste

Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent decay. Don’t rinse your mouth immediately after brushing — spit, but let the fluoride stay on your teeth longer.

Be gentle don’t scrub

Brushing too hard can wear down enamel and damage your gums. Some electric toothbrushes have a sensor to inform you if you’re brushing too hard.

Don’t forget the gumline and back teeth

Plaque often builds up along the gumline and on the molars. Tilt the brush at a 45° angle to reach the gumline effectively.

Change your electric toothbrush head every 3 months

Worn-out bristles are less effective and can even harbour bacteria. Replace your toothbrush (or brush head) every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.