Survey Finds Most Americans Keep Consistent Oral Care Routines but Skip Key Habits

SharePostShareShare
Start Discussion
Categories: Hygiene;
Posted: November 12, 2026

Edited by Dentaltown staff

Ewing, N.J.—Most Americans say they have a consistent oral care routine, but many skip key habits, according to a nationally representative YouGov survey of 1,240 U.S. adults commissioned by TheraBreath. While 83% described their routine as very or somewhat consistent, 84% reported skipping at least one habit tested. Flossing was skipped most often (45%), followed by tongue cleaning (44%), mouthrinse (43%) and brushing before bed (42%).

Sixty-one percent named a dentist or dental hygienist as their most trusted source for oral care product recommendations, compared with 2% who chose social media or influencers. Forty percent said effectiveness most influences whether they keep using a product, and 76% said ingredient transparency is important.

Nearly half (49%) feel self-conscious at least occasionally because of an oral health concern, and 21% have avoided discussing a concern with a dental professional because of embarrassment.

For more information, visit hygienesquad.com/therabreath.

Views: 13
SharePostShareShare
Start Discussion
More In Hygiene
Dental Hygiene Instruments...What’s Hot, What’s Not, you be the Judge.
Dental Hygiene Instruments...What’s Hot, What’s Not, you be the...
Judy Bendit RDH.
CE Credits: 1.5
Hygienetown: Dental Hygienist Shortage 2026
Hygienetown: Dental Hygienist Shortage 2026
February 2026
Hygienetown: How Long Should a Dental Cleaning Take?
Hygienetown: How Long Should a Dental Cleaning Take?
October 2025
That’s Not What I Learned in School: Challenging Old Practices and Integrating New Techniques
That’s Not What I Learned in School: Challenging Old Practices...
Ms. Michelle Strange
CE Credits: 1.5
Dentaltown Magazine
November 2026
Dentaltown Magazine November 2026 Read Current Issue Read Archived Issues
Sponsors
Townie Perks