You’re probably brushing your teeth wrong – here’s why

Only 12% of Brits are brushing their teeth correctly, a study claims.

A poll, of 2,000 adults, highlighted a significant gap between perception and reality when it comes to the UK’s oral care habits, revealing 88 per cent are not consistently following professional advice.

With 63 per cent spending less than the suggested two minutes brushing their teeth, and 16 per cent only brush once a day - half as often as recommended.

Despite dentists stressing the importance of daily flossing, 74 per cent don’t do this, and half use a manual toothbrush rather than an electric one.

It also emerged 11 per cent don’t use a toothpaste with fluoride, as recommended, while 17 per cent 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 important than ever.

They also report almost one in four UK adults have untreated tooth decay, and nine per cent 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.”

Despite its important role in overall wellbeing, the research also found oral health is often deprioritised compared with other health habits, with many putting more effort into healthy eating (52 per cent) and exercise (47 per cent) than looking after their teeth and gums (37 per cent).

When comparing generations, it’s the youngsters who appear to be more receptive to improving their oral care habits, with 32 per cent of Gen Z saying they would improve their routine if they had more advice.

It also emerged 35 per cent avoid smiling because they feel self-conscious about their teeth, while 48 per cent claimed good oral health makes them feel confident.

Although 77 per cent rely on their dentist for advice on the best oral health, 14 per cent 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 per cent are using AI for guidance on improving their brushing routine, while 17 per cent turn to social media for oral health advice, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Dentist Dr Eva CastroPerea 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.”