Brush Up on Gaps in Kids’ Oral Hygiene Habits
In a national poll, parents report significant differences in children’s oral hygiene practices, with fewer boys meeting recommended standards. The findings underscore the critical role of consistent habits in preventing dental caries.
Good oral hygiene is a cornerstone of children’s health, impacting everything from their ability to eat and speak to their self-esteem. Yet, a recent C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll reveals that many children fall short of recommended oral care routines — and it’s taking a toll on their oral health.
The poll surveyed parents of children age 4 to 17 and found that while 64% of children brush their teeth twice a day and 59% brush for at least 2 minutes, fewer practice additional essential habits. Only 35% clean their tongue, 23% floss, and a mere 15% rinse their mouth after consuming sugary foods or drinks. The poll also revealed gender disparities, with parents reporting fewer oral hygiene practices for boys than girls.
The consequences of inconsistent oral care are evident. Over one-third of parents (36%) reported dental issues in their children within the past 2 years, including dental caries (29%), tooth discoloration (7%), and gingivitis (3%). These issues were more common in children who performed fewer oral hygiene practices. Among children doing 0 to one hygiene task daily, 44% experienced dental problems, compared to 28% of those doing four to six tasks.
Beyond dental health, oral malodor was a prevalent issue, affecting 36% of children. While parents often attributed this to “morning breath” (77%), nearly half linked it to poor brushing and flossing habits. Oral malodor was most common among children with minimal oral hygiene routines. Most parents took action, encouraging more frequent brushing (82%), introducing mouthrinse (36%), or scheduling dental visits (16%).
Despite these challenges, there’s good news: 89% of parents reported that their child had visited the dentist in the past year. Regular dental checkups are crucial for identifying and addressing early signs of tooth decay and reinforcing the importance of daily oral care. Click here to read more.
