New data from YouGov Profiles sheds light on the oral care habits of U.S. adults, offering valuable insights into brushing frequency, common dental issues, and preferences for oral care products.
Brushing Habits and Dental Health
The research reveals that 30% of Americans brush their teeth at least once a day, with 51% brushing twice daily and 10% brushing three times or more. Interestingly, individuals who brush their teeth twice or more daily report fewer dental problems over the past year compared to those who brush once daily. Among those who brush once a day, 23% report experiencing toothaches, 23% have cavities, and 14% suffer from gum issues. These numbers are noticeably lower among those who brush twice or more a day, with only 20% reporting toothaches, 19% cavities, and 11% gum problems.
Popular Oral Care Products
When it comes to oral care products, mouthwash is the most commonly used, with 59% of Americans using it at least once a week. Dental floss or tape also plays a significant role in many adults’ routines, with 53% incorporating it regularly. Usage differs by gender, as 58% of women use dental floss regularly, compared to 48% of men. Men are also more likely to use toothpicks (31%) than women (25%). Other specialized products, such as water flossers (14%), interdental brushes (9%), and teeth whitening strips (8%), show smaller but growing interest, catering to niche needs.
Toothbrush Preferences
Manual toothbrushes remain the preferred choice for most Americans, with 64% using them regularly. Electric toothbrushes, including models with smart technology, are used by 23% of adults. Disposable electric toothbrushes and ultrasonic models have a smaller user base, with only 4% of adults opting for these variations.
Toothpaste Features: What Consumers Value Most
When it comes to toothpaste, whitening and cavity protection top the list of priorities for American consumers, with 50% selecting each as important features. Other sought-after attributes include breath freshening (42%), anti-plaque (33%), and multi-protection formulas (33%). Meanwhile, specific dental needs drive interest in features like anti-decay (26%), tartar control (22%), desensitizing (16%), and anti-toothache properties (11%).
This research highlights key trends in the oral care habits of U.S. adults, showcasing preferences for both routine practices and specialized products that cater to individual dental needs.
Related topics:
How Does A Dentist Do A Deep Cleaning
Does Brushing With Baking Soda Remove Plaque
How Many Days Should I Use Whitening Strips
