Canadians failing to take care of their teeth

A survey carried out in Canada has revealed some shocking results relating to standards of oral hygiene in the country.

The Crest and Oral B Great Canadian Smile Survey found that only 4 percent of the participants followed a proper oral hygiene routine, despite most people stating that the appearance of their teeth important. A shocking 40 percent of people that did not brush their teeth twice a day said they didn’t have the time or were too tired to brush their teeth in the evening.

Despite the apparent high ranking of dental health, confirmed by 62 percent of respondents, most people are failing to take the time to make sure their teeth are healthy; according to the survey, most people are willing to go to the gym or take time to enhance their physical appearance, but their dental health seems to fall by the wayside. The survey also revealed that 26 percent of the people questioned did not visit their dentist each year; the reasons cited for this included a lack of dental insurance and problems affording dental care.

Dentists across Canada are hoping that initiatives launched to celebrate dental health month in April will encourage people to spend more time looking after their teeth; an oral hygiene routine should take less that 10 minutes each day and can make a radical difference to dental health as well as contributing to good general health and higher self-esteem.

According to experts, a daily oral hygiene routine should include brushing the teeth for at least two minutes at least twice a day, flossing once a day and using a mouthwash twice a day; completing this simple routine each day will ensure good oral health and help to keep the teeth looking bright and healthy. Patients are also urged to see their dentist at least once a year.

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