Less than a quarter of children floss regularly, say researchers

The University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health found that children who skipped dental hygiene recommendations or followed them less often more commonly experienced dental issues.

Sarah Clark, co-director of the Mott poll, said, “Maintaining oral health from a young age, including regular brushing and flossing, helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other issues that make it difficult for children to eat and speak clearly.

“Over a third of parents in our poll reported their child does not regularly brush twice a day - the most basic level of oral hygiene.”

The report is based on 1,801 responses from parents with at least one child aged four to 17 polled in August 2024.