A recent study has revealed a troubling trend in dental hygiene practices among the Polish population, with fewer adults adhering to recommended daily toothbrushing routines compared to last year. The report, titled “How Poles Properly Take Care of Their Teeth? Edition I 2024”, conducted by UCE RESEARCH and IMPLANT MEDICAL, indicates that only 54.5% of adults brush their teeth twice daily with toothpaste, a decrease of 3.1 percentage points from the previous year.
The findings also show that the percentage of individuals brushing just once a day has fallen to 18.1%, a drop of 1.7 percentage points. While there is a slight increase in the number of people brushing three times a day, from 11.3% to 13.9%, and those brushing after every meal, from 2.2% to 3.9%, these numbers still represent a small fraction of the population. Moreover, a minimal 1.2% admit to not brushing daily, and 1.4% do not brush at all.
Dr. Piotr Przybylski, an implantologist at IMPLANT MEDICAL and a co-author of the report, expressed concern over these statistics. “Over half of the population claims to brush twice a day, yet the oral health of such patients often leaves much to be desired,” he explained. The expert highlighted ineffective brushing, such as too short or improper techniques, as a significant issue.
The study also points to rising costs of dental care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, as a potential factor influencing these trends. However, Dr. Przybylski emphasizes that a lack of awareness about the risks associated with poor oral hygiene poses a greater threat. “If we do not invest in broader education, the situation could continue to deteriorate,” he warned.
The report stresses the importance of regular and effective tooth brushing, recommending brushing twice daily at a minimum, and ideally after every meal. Dr. Przybylski also advocates for the use of soft toothbrushes, toothpaste containing fluoride, and additional tools like irrigators and mouthwashes to reduce the risk of dental diseases.
Despite these recommendations, the report indicates a persistent gap in dental hygiene practices across different demographics, with women and urban residents with higher education and income levels more likely to maintain better oral hygiene.
The report calls for enhanced dental education, particularly among young Poles, reflecting on past practices where dental care and education were more integrated into schools. “Nothing works as well as getting used to proper tooth brushing from a young age,” Dr. Przybylski remarked, highlighting the long-term benefits of early dental education.