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Most UK adults ignore dentist-recommended hygiene advice

A new study has found that only 12% of UK adults follow a dentist-recommended oral hygiene routine, with 63% brushing for under two minutes and 74% skipping daily flossing

[Close-up of someone brushing their teeth with a toothbrush]

Most adult believe they brush their teeth correctly(Image: Getty Images)

Eight in 10 Brits believe they are cleaning their teeth properly but only 12% are actually adhering to the dentist-recommended routine. A survey of 2,000 adults exposed a substantial gap between perception and reality when it comes to the UK's oral care habits, showing 88% are not consistently following professional guidance.

More than two thirds (63%) spend less than the advised two minutes cleaning their teeth, and 16% only brush once a day. Additionally, despite dentists emphasising the importance of daily flossing, 74% don't do this, and half use a manual toothbrush rather than an electric one.

It also emerged 11% don't use a toothpaste with fluoride, as recommended, while 17% admitted they weren't even sure what type they use on their teeth.

The findings come at a time when, according to the Oral Health Foundation, many people continue to face challenges accessing dental care, making good oral hygiene habits at home more crucial than ever.

[ father and daughter brushing their teeth together in a bathroom at home]

Good oral hygiene is vital for people of all ages(Image: Getty Images)

They also report almost one in four UK adults have untreated tooth decay, and 9% show signs of severe gum disease.

Commissioned by Oral-B, the study coincides with the launch of its Brush for Better campaign, which sees the brand take its purpose-built dental bus on a nationwide tour from July to September 2026 - bringing oral health education, expert advice and practical guidance directly into communities across the UK.

At the end of its journey, the purpose-built dental bus will be donated to Dentaid - The Dental Charity - joining its fleet of mobile dental units, which provide 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."

[close up of tooth paste being put on toothbrush]

9% of adults have signs of severe gum diease(Image: Getty Images)

The study discovered that oral health is frequently pushed down the priority list compared with other health habits, with many investing more effort into healthy eating (52%) and exercise (47%) than caring for their teeth and gums (37%).

When looking at different generations, it's younger adults who seem more open to improving their oral care routines, with 32% of Gen Z saying they would improve their habits if they had more guidance.

The findings also revealed that 35% avoid smiling because they feel embarrassed about their teeth, while 48% claim good oral health makes them feel confident.

Despite 77% relying on their dentist for guidance on optimal oral health, 14% visit them less than once a year, and one in 10 have gone an alarming five years without doing so. What's more, some are even seeking guidance beyond the dental surgery, with 10% using AI for advice on improving their brushing routine, while 17% turn to social media for oral health tips, 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."

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