Oral Hygiene -- The Statistics Are Shocking

Brushing and flossing certainly aren’t a hot topic of conversation, but both are something that everyone does. Also, something that many adults have lots of room to improve. While brushing and flossing take less than 5 minutes a day, it is shocking how many adults fail to take the time. This is often because you are in a rush to get out the door, are exhausted and want to get to sleep, or simply underestimate the need for consistent oral care. The American Dental Association (ADA) gathered these statistics in 2013—you might be shocked to see the results.

How Many People Really Brush Twice Daily?

When it comes to brushing, you are supposed to brush your teeth 2 times a day for 2 full minutes, which the Triple Bristle takes the thinking out of the timing with the convenient built-in timer. The average adult only brushes for somewhere around 30 or 40 seconds each time they brush, and of those, only 56% of women brush 2 times a day—and 49% percent of men.

How Many Adults Have a Dentist?

When it comes to having a dedicated dentist to turn to when in need of dental care, the numbers are quite impressive. Approximately 89% of women and 75% of men have a dentist they can call for general and emergency dental care. However, only about 1/3 of adults actually go to the dentist in a 12-month period. The ADA suggests visiting the dentist every 6 months. However, you may have to go more frequently if you have a severe dental condition such as periodontal gum disease.

Do People Really Floss Their Teeth Every Day?

Only about 51% of people floss daily, 31% floss regularly, and 18% never floss—or only floss when they see or feel something stuck in their teeth. Flossing is the only way to access the surface areas in-between your teeth, where bacteria, food particles, and plaque get trapped. Flossing also cleans just under the surface of your gum line.

How Many Adults Have Untreated Dental Decay?

If you don’t visit the dentist, you may not be aware that you have cavities, decay, gum disease, or other oral health concepts. In fact, 29% of men, and 25% of women ages 35 to 44 have untreated dental decay. In that same age group, 30% of men, and 32% of women have never had a permanent tooth extracted.

Last but not least, and this one is shocking, 52% of men and 45% of women have gingivitis. In most cases,gingivitis can be avoided with daily brushing and flossing, and twice annual exams and dental cleaning. Catch it early, so that it does not progress into an irreversible condition.

Did you know that the Triple Bristle BrushHead was designed by a dentist and has been recommended by many dentist and hygienists? Go ahead, try one for yourself!