Only a small proportion of people are following dentists’ oral hygiene advice (Image: Getty)
Most Brits think they have their brushing routine under control, but new research suggests many are falling short of dentists’ recommendations. While eight in 10 adults believe they brush their teeth properly, a poll of 2,000 people found just 12% consistently follow the routine advised by dental professionals, leaving 88% missing at least one key part of recommended oral care.
The survey revealed that 63% spend less than the recommended two minutes brushing, while 16% brush only once a day. Flossing habits were also lacking, with 74% admitting they do not floss daily despite dentists stressing its importance, and half of respondents said they still use a manual toothbrush rather than an electric one.
The research also found that 11% do not use fluoride toothpaste, despite it being recommended by dental experts, while 17% said they were not even sure what type of toothpaste they use.
The findings come as the Oral Health Foundation warns that many people continue to struggle to access dental care, making effective at-home oral hygiene more important than ever.
The foundation also reports that almost one in four UK adults have untreated tooth decay, while 9% show signs of severe gum disease.
Commissioned by Oral-B, the study has been released alongside the launch of its Brush for Better campaign. As part of the initiative, the brand’s purpose-built dental bus will travel across the UK from July to September 2026, offering oral health education, expert advice and practical guidance directly to local communities.
Once the tour is complete, the dental bus will be donated to Dentaid – The Dental Charity – where it will become part of the organisation’s fleet of mobile dental units providing free dental care and oral health advice to under-served communities.
David Ewan, Northern Europe senior director oral care, Oral-B, said: “Good oral health starts with the habits we practice every day at home, yet the research reveals a clear gap between perception and reality when it comes to how people care for their teeth. That’s why making expert advice accessible is so important.
“By the end of the bus tour in November, we want to have meaningfully increased the number of people following the recommended oral care routine.”
Oral-B is helping to raise awareness of oral hygiene (Image: Oral B)
The research also found oral health is often deprioritised compared with other health habits, with many putting more effort into healthy eating (52%) and exercise (47%) than looking after their teeth and gums (37%).
When comparing generations, it’s the younger adults who appear to be more receptive to improving their oral care habits, with 32% of Gen Z saying they would improve their routine if they had more advice.
It also emerged 35% avoid smiling because they feel self-conscious about their teeth, while 48% claim good oral health makes them feel confident.
Although 77% rely on their dentist for advice on the best oral health, 14% visit them less than once a year, and one in 10 have even gone a shocking five years without sitting in the chair.
Furthermore, some are even seeking advice beyond the dental chair as 10% are using AI for guidance on improving their brushing routine, while 17% turn to social media for oral health advice, according to the OnePoll.com data.
Dentist Dr Eva Castro Perea said: “These results show there’s still a lack of awareness about what makes an effective oral care routine.
“Brushing twice a day for two minutes, using an electric toothbrush, flossing every day and replacing your brush head regularly are simple habits that can have a huge impact on oral health over time.
“Getting these everyday habits right at home is very important.”
