Most people do not know if they are cleaning their teeth properly, says Oral Health Foundation
One in three adults brush for less than the recommended two minutes, while many apply excessive pressure or use the wrong brushing motion
Millions of people in the UK could be brushing their teeth ineffectively, according to the Oral Health Foundation.
Despite daily brushing routines, the charity is concerned that a growing number of adults are unknowingly putting themselves at risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to poor technique and lack of feedback.
The charity is warning that ‘brushing blind’ – brushing without knowing whether you’re doing it correctly – is one of the most overlooked issues in personal health.
“Most people believe they’re brushing their teeth well, but the evidence tells a very different story,” says Karen Coates, oral health educator at the Oral Health Foundation.
The charity’s research shows that almost one in three adults (32%) brush for less than the recommended two minutes, while many apply excessive pressure or use the wrong brushing motion. These habits can damage enamel and irritate gums, leading to long-term oral health problems.
In response, the Oral Health Foundation is calling for greater awareness of what effective brushing looks like, and how simple tools can help people build better habits.
One approach gaining attention is the use of electric toothbrushes with built-in features, like pressure sensors and timers. Despite their benefits, the UK has been slow to adopt the use of electric toothbrushes. The charity’s findings show that as few as one in three (36%) regularly use one.
Government figures show that around half (50%) of UK adults have some form of gum disease, and nearly one in three (31%) have tooth decay.
The Oral Health Foundation stresses that small improvements in brushing habits can lead to significant gains in oral health, including fewer dental appointments, reduced risk of tooth loss, and better overall well-being.