Millions of people in the UK could be brushing their teeth ineffectively – and not even realise it, according to the Oral Health Foundation.
Despite daily brushing routines, the charity is concerned that a growing number of adults are unknowingly putting themselves at risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to poor technique and lack of feedback.
The charity is warning that “brushing blind” – brushing without knowing whether you’re doing it correctly – is one of the most overlooked issues in personal health.
“Most people believe they’re brushing their teeth well, but the evidence tells a very different story,” says Dr Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation.
“Every day, we see patients with early gum disease, plaque build-up or sensitivity that could be prevented with better brushing technique. But without feedback, it’s impossible to know if you’re applying too much pressure, missing key areas, or not brushing for long enough.”
The charity’s research shows that almost one in three adults (32%) brush for less than the recommended two minutes, while many apply excessive pressure or use the wrong brushing motion. These habits can damage enamel and irritate gums, leading to long-term oral health problems.
In response, the Oral Health Foundation is calling for greater awareness of what effective brushing looks like – and how simple tools can help people build better habits.
One approach gaining attention is the use of electric toothbrushes with built-in features, like pressure sensors and timers.
Toothbrushes like the Oral-B iO2 offer these features, helping people improve their technique without relying on guesswork.
Eva Castro Perea, Senior Scientific Relations Manager for Oral-B in the UK, says: “We’ve found that people often want to brush better, but don’t know where to start. That’s why we’ve developed the iO2 – to offer guided brushing in a way that’s easy, accessible and rooted in science.”
Despite the benefits, the UK has been slow to adopt the use of electric toothbrushes. The charity’s findings show that as few as one in three (36%) regularly use one.
This means millions are missing out on helpful feedback about how well they brush, and this could be one of the reasons why so many people have problems with their teeth and gums.
Government figures show that around half (50%) of UK adults have some form of gum disease, and nearly one in three (31%) have tooth decay.
The Oral Health Foundation stresses that small improvements in brushing habits can lead to significant gains in oral health, including fewer dental appointments, reduced risk of tooth loss, and better overall well-being.
The charity recommends looking for an electric toothbrush that provides real-time feedback on brushing pressure, guides users to cover all areas of the mouth, and encourages brushing for the full recommended two minutes.
“It’s about brushing smarter, not harder,” adds Dr Carter. “Everyone deserves to feel confident in their smile. Sometimes, just a little feedback can make all the difference.”
