Dentists warn people are subjective to their health when a new survey shows that more than 10% of the population does not brush their teeth every day.
The number of people who did not brush their teeth was 8 times higher than last year, according to a survey by the British Oral Health Association over 1,000 people. And only 1/3 are brushing their teeth enough for 2 minutes - according to doctors' advice.
Dentists say that although oral health has improved over the past 30 years, this trend can still be reversed. Dr Nigel Carter, CEO at the British Oral Health Association, said: "Oral health is needed to prevent many diseases, especially gingivitis and tooth decay."
"People need to maintain the habit of brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste - it's essential for dental health and the body as a whole".
The survey found 12% of people brushed their teeth only a few times a week or never, while last year's figure was 1.5%. 30% said they did not brush their teeth for up to 2 minutes - 50% less than the previous year. And 1/5 said they couldn't remember the last time I changed my toothbrush.
The survey also showed that people use bizarre objects to floss their teeth, such as drill heads, shoelaces and twigs.
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