Survey Reveals Only 1 in 10 Swedes Brush Their Teeth Properly
A survey has revealed that only 1 in 10 Swedish people brush their teeth properly.
Research carried out by a team at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg revealed that although most people take time to brush their teeth twice a day, 9 out of 10 people are not brushing in the correct way.
Pia Gabre, from the research team, said that most Swedes brush their teeth on a regular basis but very few are aware of the best brushing technique, the importance of fluoride and how toothpaste should be used.
The research team analysed the brushing habits of 2013 Swedes between the ages of 15 and 80 and discovered a number of flaws, including not sticking to recommended brushing times, not using fluoridated toothpaste and not brushing frequently enough.
In a statement, Gabre said that the research suggests that Swedes brush their teeth to adhere to social norms, rather than to prevent decay and other dental problems. Gabre added that Swedes could brush much more effectively to improve standards of oral health.
Despite the fact that 80 percent of participants were happy with their brushing regime, Gabre suggested that better education for adults would make a difference to oral health. Gabre said that most people learn brushing habits during childhood and fail to adapt them to make brushing more effective. With better education they could learn how to clean their teeth in the most effective way to reduce the risk of oral diseases.
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