What percentage of adults don't brush their teeth?

How Many Adults Actually Brush Their Teeth Regularly?

Despite what we learned in childhood, not everyone sticks to a solid dental routine. According to a 2019 study by Delta Dental, nearly one-third of Americans—about 31%—don’t brush their teeth at least twice a day as recommended by dentists. That’s nearly one in three adults skipping proper brushing, putting themselves at higher risk for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Even more surprising? Two percent of respondents admitted to not brushing their teeth at all. While that number may seem small, it reflects a significant population neglecting one of the most basic aspects of personal hygiene.

And it’s not just about frequency. Many who do brush often wait too long between sessions. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily—morning and night—to effectively remove plaque and bacteria. Yet habits like brushing only once a day or skipping nighttime brushing are more common than you'd think.

Why does this matter? Poor oral hygiene doesn’t just lead to bad breath or cavities—it’s been linked to more serious health concerns, including heart disease and diabetes. Your mouth is a gateway to your overall health, and brushing twice daily is one of the simplest ways to protect it.

So while most of us grew up hearing “brush for two minutes, twice a day,” it’s clear the message hasn’t reached everyone. With increasing awareness and education, hopefully more adults will adopt consistent routines—not just for a brighter smile, but for better long-term health.