A single toothbrush can harbor more than one million bacteria—a shocking statistic when you consider that its purpose is to keep your mouth clean and healthy.

To uncover just how much bacteria is really lurking, the team at Risas Dental conducted an experiment using an advanced ATP bioluminescence testing method. We've measured the amount of adenosine triphosphate - a molecule found in and around living cells – on each of our participants' toothbrushes.

Swabs were taken using Hygiena's UltraSnap Surface ATP Test and EnSURE Touch monitoring system to provide RLU (Relative Light Unit) readings. And the higher the RLU result, the more bacteria present.

But are there differences between the cleanliness of our male and female participants' toothbrushes? And what about other areas in their bathrooms? Let's dive in to find out just how clean (or dirty) the average American toothbrush really is…

How Clean Are Americans' Dirty Toothbrush?

Our research has uncovered some eye-opening results about the cleanliness of American toothbrushes.

The average RLU level for a toothbrush owned by a female participant sits at 295.5 RLU, while the acceptable range for cleanliness is between just 20-60. We did find variation however, with one toothbrush having a relatively low level of 80, while another showed a level of 3,837 RLU. Other brushes fell in the 134, 161, and 558 RLU range.

But what about our male participants? Well, the average RLU level was slightly lower (coming in at 202.2), yet we also found some significantly high figures. On two of the toothbrushes we swabbed, we found elevated RLU levels of 3,248 and 4,635.

Bathroom cleanliness levels

Next, let's take a look at the cleanliness levels in our participants' bathrooms. The average female bathroom RLU score sits at 97.2, while we found a higher average score of 396.4 when swabbing male bathrooms.

Swabbing specific areas like door handles, sinks, and taps also revealed some interesting differences.

Female bathroom door handles are significantly cleaner (98 RLU compared to 457). Similarly, female participants' bathroom sinks were also noticeably cleaner, with the right side of their sinks showing RLU levels of just 24, while male sinks showed an average of 668. 
 While the tap area in our male bathrooms had a slightly lower RLU of 252, female bathroom taps still came in cleaner (120 RLU).

Toothbrush bacteria and cleanliness: What do the experts have to say?

To gain some professional insight, we asked Dr. Singh, from Winit Clinic, to shed some light on our findings:

“I've seen alarming data with high RLU levels associated with toothbrushes and sink basins. ATP bioluminescence testing provides an excellent measure of organic contamination, and with values as high as 4,635, it is likely that there is extensive presence of micro-organisms such as bacteria and biofilm. With the range for acceptability pegged between 20 and 60 RLU, toothbrushes and their environments are clearly well outside the cleanliness thresholds. This means that, unknowingly, people might be exposing themselves to bacteria every time they brush, and a dirty toothbrush can introduce millions of bacteria into the mouth, affecting overall well being and even the body.”

“One of the most significant risks associated with using a contaminated toothbrush is that it could lead to oral infections. Once the pathogens settle on the bristles and toothbrush head, they get introduced into the oral cavity, where they can cause gum disease, contribute to cavities, raise the risk of infection, and even lead to systemic infections in those with low immunity; one example of toothbrush bacteria on bristles is Porphyromonas gingivalis. Long-term use of a contaminated toothbrush could be devastating to the oral microbiome, as it predisposes the mouth to colonization by more pathogenic bacteria, which then results in chronic inflammation of the gums and possibly other mouth-related complications. Fungi such as Candida albicans can also cause oral thrush, including white patches on the tongue.”

“Cross-contamination is another issue. Having toothbrushes stored in proximity in an unhygienic atmosphere creates the right environment for the bacteria to migrate from one brush to the other, and coli can occasionally be found on toothbrushes after moving from the bathroom environment onto the brush. High bacterial loads in shared bathroom spaces can promote the spread of illness-causing germs such as those associated with some gastrointestinal- and airway-tract infections. Since almost all of the places have high ATP, these areas definitely serve as important niches for bacterial growth. This reinforces the need to disinfect toothbrushes frequently, store them upright in a dry place, and replace them every three months or earlier if the bristles become worn or dirty, because continued use of an old, contaminated brush can create other health problems, including respiratory infections and systemic illness.”

How to maintain optimal toothbrush hygiene for oral health

The good news is, with a bit of guidance, keeping your brush clean is relatively easy. Dr David Ryan, DMD at Risas Dental shares some top tips below:

1. Storage matters: “Most people should store your toothbrush in a toothbrush holder or other open space, upright and as far away from the toilet as possible, since that helps reduce contamination. It should also stay out of a moist environment or other damp area, because pathogens can linger on wet bristles and bacterial growth is more likely there. After you wash it, let it air dry upright in the air rather than in closed containers or under toothbrush covers.”
2. Rinsing isn't enough: “Always rinse your toothbrush after brushing, and rinse your toothbrush thoroughly to wash away food particles, food debris, and leftover toothpaste. While that is helpful, you'll need to give it a deeper clean every once in a while, too. Soak it in antibacterial mouthwash or a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution for 3-5 minutes. Afterwards, use hot water for cleaning, then cold water if you want the bristles to firm back up, which can help keep the toothbrush clean and reduce more bacteria.”
3. When to replace it: “The american dental association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months (or sooner if the bristles start to fray), which also supports prevention and disease control. A well-worn brush is a breeding ground for bacteria; as bristles age they fray and weaken, may remove plaque less effectively, can scrape and irritate gum tissues, and may leave teeth less clean.”

While a clean toothbrush is crucial for your oral health, Dr Ryan also explains how important it is to choose the right type of brush and incorporate additional steps into your routine:

• Choose the right tools: "Not all toothbrushes are created equal, soft-bristled brushes are generally the safest and most effective for removing plaque without damaging your enamel or irritating your gums. Whether manual or electric, what matters most is your technique and consistency, and an electric toothbrush needs regular cleaning too, especially the head, to kill bacteria."
• Don't brush alone: "Your toothbrush is just one part of complete oral hygiene routine. Be sure to floss daily to remove food and plaque from between your teeth, where your brush can't reach. Adding an antibacterial mouthwash can also help reduce harmful bacteria and keep your breath fresh."
• Keep it personal: "Never share your toothbrush, even with family members, as this can spread germs and increase your risk of infections. Also, make sure each toothbrush in your household is clearly marked to avoid mix-ups, and don't keep your toothbrush in shared closed containers when anyone at home is sick."

When in doubt, ask your dentist: "If you're unsure whether you're using the right brush or following the best routine for your specific needs, your dentist can help you customize your oral care for maximum effectiveness." At Risas, our mission is to provide affordable, community-focused dental care, with convenient locations like our Aurora, CO office offering accessible family dentistry and bilingual, affordable dental and braces services for Spanish-speaking patients.

Well, there we have it: our insights on how clean (or dirty) the average American toothbrush really is, echoing the dirty truth about your toothbrush and bathroom.

Brushing plays a key role in keeping our mouths healthy, but its effectiveness relies on proper care, storage, and regular professional dental cleaning. So, follow the above tips, and ensure you're prioritizing brush cleanliness for a healthy smile, while taking advantage of flexible dental payment options that can make routine care more affordable.

And if you're due for a check-up soon, find a location near you and book an appointment online with Risas Dental today. From affordable dental exams, braces, and other services to clear pricing and flexible payment options and help understanding your dental insurance and coverage, plus special offers that make care even more budget-friendly, we offer a variety of affordable services and expert oral health guidance — including braces and orthodontic treatment options and convenient local clinics such as our Phoenix Central office, Phoenix West dentist in English, Phoenix West dentista en Español, Aurora North dentist, Aurora South dentista, and Denver locations like Denver South dentista and Federal Heights dentist / Federal Heights dentista.

Methodology

The tests were conducted using an ATP bioluminescence test, which measures the amount of adenosine triphosphate - a molecule found in and around living cells - on a particular surface, indicating the level of cleanliness.

Swabs were taken using Hygiena's UltraSnap Surface ATP Test and EnSURE Touch monitoring system to determine RLU results.

It can be scary to have bleeding gums after you floss, but this isn't always a sign of serious trouble. If your gums bleed when flossing, it could be a sign of common oral health issues your dentist can help with that are not as serious as gum disease. It could also simply be the way you've been flossing. Here are six of the most common causes of bleeding gums.

Bleeding gums have a lot of causes ranging from probably not a big deal to something very serious that needs to get checked. Reasons you might have bleeding gums include the following.

1. Bacterial Buildup
   Bacteria live all over your mouth and your gums will try to flush them out if they can. When you brush or floss, especially if you remove tartar or plaque buildup, your gums can bleed to flush the tissues and protect the site. This is more likely to happen when it's been a while since you've had a professional dental cleaning or if you have an infection causing gum inflammation.
2. Your Flossing Technique
   Improper technique is one of the most common reasons for bleeding gums. If you're pressing too hard or scraping the surface of the gums, you can get small wounds that bleed for a bit. Brushing too hard also causes bleeding gums sometimes. Your brush might be too stiff or you could be pressing too hard for your gums, which can also cause bleeding.
3. Badly Fitted Appliances
   Dentures and braces can both cause bleeding gums. If they're not fit quite right or if you have a loose wire somewhere, you might get a bit of blood sometimes. This is most likely to happen after you brush or floss because you might be pushing the loose bits of the braces into a soft spot on your gums.
4. Changes in Your Blood
   Certain hormonal changes can make you more likely to bleed from the gums. Pregnant women sometimes experience bleeding gums without an obvious reason, as can people taking blood thinners and some other medications. People who have clotting disorders, such as hemophilia, might also experience bleeding gums from time to time.
5. Gum Disease
   Gingivitis is one of the most common diseases in the world, and huge numbers of people have at least some gum irritation caused by infection or tooth decay. If you have periodontal disease like this, you might also have a puffy, red-looking gum line that aches or itches. Bleeding at odd times, not just while flossing, can also be a symptom of gum disease.
6. Vitamin Deficiency
   Gums can bleed because you have a vitamin deficiency. Scurvy is caused by a lack of vitamin C, which is really rare in the Western world these days. Vitamin K deficiency can also show up as bleeding gums.

Bleeding Gums When Flossing: Is It Normal for Your Gums to Bleed?

Your gums can bleed for a lot of different reasons, and thankfully it's usually not serious. Most people experience at least occasional gum bleeding from time to time, and if there aren't other signs of trouble, it's probably not a symptom of major health issues. You're especially likely to notice some bleeding from your gums if it's been a while since you've regularly flossed or if you have tartar buildup on the gum line.

How Long Does It Take for Gums to Stop Bleeding When Flossing?

It's pretty normal for gums to bleed if you're not in the habit of flossing, but healthy gums should not bleed easily, and this doesn't last forever. As a rule, your gums should stop bleeding after 1-3 days of regular flossing. If you notice persistent gum bleeding beyond that window, it may point to a deeper issue and should be checked by a dentist.

Even if it's been a while since you fell out of the habit of daily flossing, regular brushing as part of good oral hygiene can help keep bleeding gums to a minimum. Twice-daily brushing helps promote healthy teeth, and the gentle massaging of the gum line helps stimulate healthy blood flow and firm up the gum tissue and reduce bleeding.

What's the Right Way to Floss?

There's definitely a right way to floss to help keep gum disease under control and reduce gum inflammation. First, pull a length of about 18 inches of dental floss and wind it around the middle fingers on each hand. Pinch the floss between your thumbs and index fingers with 1-2 inches between them. Use proper flossing technique by gently working the floss between two teeth with a careful zig-zag motion until it's seated well between them, and be sure not to let it snap into the space. Bend the floss around the first tooth in a C shape and gently scour off the plaque, starting at the gum line and working outward. This helps remove plaque and trapped food particles without injuring the gum tissue. Floss up and down each tooth, including the backs, and try to get a little under the gum line.

How Often Should You Floss Your Teeth?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you floss daily as part of good oral hygiene to help prevent gum bleeding. You can floss more often, of course, and the ADA suggests brushing and flossing after you eat as a routine that can help prevent bleeding gums. This helps get at the plaque between teeth and fights tooth decay, bad breath, and a number of other issues like gingivitis. An antibacterial mouthwash can reduce gum inflammation.

Do I Have Gum Disease?

It can be hard to tell if you have gum disease, and gum disease bleeding gums can be one of the early signs. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Symptoms of gum disease include swelling, tender gums, swollen gums, or bleeding gums, and if left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease and, in a severe form, lead to gum recession and tooth loss.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Your dentist is a vital part of good gum health and can help you maintain healthy gums and keep your gums healthy with the right support. Together with a dental hygienist and other teammates, your care team can give you good advice about why gums bleed, how to floss the right way, and when it's time for professional dental cleanings or more frequent professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. In some cases, stubborn plaque may need professional treatments such as root planing. If you've noticed bleeding gums, your dentist may also review your medical history, health conditions, and whether you take blood thinners or other blood thinning medications.

Other Bleeding Gums Remedies You Can Try

If your gums bleed when you floss, a consistent flossing routine and better flossing habits can help maintain healthy gums. Brushing twice a day is important, along with regular flossing, because these habits help prevent bleeding gums linked to plaque buildup from poor oral hygiene. Use a soft bristled toothbrush that doesn't irritate your gums as much as a stiffer brush would, and replace it when the bristles become worn bristles. Try massaging your gums in gentle circular motions to promote healthy circulation and good gum health. An antibacterial mouthwash can also help kill bacteria as part of your daily care.

A balanced diet can also support a healthy smile, while poor nutrition can make gum problems worse. Now that you know why your gums bleed when flossing, we'd like to help you take care of your teeth. Book an appointment at one of our convenient locations if you experience bleeding gums, especially if home care does not help, so we can determine what the root cause is. We offer interest-free payment plans with no credit checks and flexible dental insurance and payment options to make family dentistry easy to reach for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What deficiency causes bleeding gums?

The most common vitamin deficiencies to cause bleeding gums are vitamins C and K.

What does it mean if your gums randomly bleed?

Bleeding from the gums at random times with no apparent cause might be nothing, or it could be a sign of a serious health concern. Book an appointment with a dentist without delay to discuss what might be happening.

How long does it take for bleeding gums to heal?

How long it takes for gums to heal depends on how seriously they're injured. Bleeding from flossing should stop in 1-3 days, and bleeding that goes on longer than that should be looked into.

Does smoking cause bleeding gums?

In addition to the many other health issues smoking causes, the irritating chemicals in tobacco smoke can trigger gingivitis and even loosen the gums' grip on teeth over time. This accelerates tooth decay and tooth loss and loose teeth, requiring restorative dentistry to fix.

Does stress cause bleeding gums?

Long-term stress has effects all over the body, from elevated blood pressure to a weakened immune system. This can show up as bleeding gums sometimes.

What foods help heal gums?

Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, sesame seeds, macadamia nuts and pistachios, have anti-inflammatory properties. Because most bleeding gums are inflamed, the thinking is that omega-3 doesn't hurt, but the science is still out on how helpful it can be.

In the past, braces were fairly simple. They were usually made up of plain silver metals, and patients didn't have much say in how they looked. Nowadays, getting braces is a fun and creative experience. The brackets that make up braces have elastic ligatures, or rubber bands, that come in all sorts of colors. Patients can choose anything they want from light, eye-catching colors to dark, discreet shades.

With so many options, deciding on a single color can be difficult. Ultimately, you want something that suits your unique personality while also making your teeth shine brighter. Let's take a closer look at the available colors and how to pick the right color for you.

What Color Braces Are Available?

When it comes to braces colors, the sky’s the limit. You'll find everything from white and clear elastic bands to striking black and brown bands. In between these two extremes are all the colors of the rainbow, from purple and blue to red and yellow. You can settle on a single color or combine a few — most patients choose between one and two colors.

Many orthodontists offer a color wheel to help patients imagine their braces. This tool shows all of the available colors and helps patients to see the differences between hues. If you're interested in blue braces, for example, the color wheel can help you pinpoint the exact shade of blue you're looking for.

How Often Can I Change My Braces Color?

If you're worried about picking the right braces color, you may be relieved to learn that it's just a temporary decision. Your orthodontist can change out the rubber bands during your adjustment appointment, which generally occurs every 8 to 12 weeks. If you find a color you really like, you can also ask for the same one each time.

What Braces Color Is Right For Me?

There's no single answer to the question, "What color braces should I get?" Instead, the answer depends entirely on what you're looking for. Here are a few factors you could base your decision on.

1) Personal Preferences

The most straightforward way to choose a color is by simply selecting what you like. This could be your favorite color, a popular color combination, or something meaningful to you such as your school or alma mater colors. You should also consider the type of look you're trying to achieve. If you're going for an upbeat look, for example, stick with light, cheerful colors like pink, orange, or red. If you want a more laid-back vibe, cool colors like dark blue, lavender, and silver work well.

2) Seasonal Events/Themes

If you can't settle on a single color, consider changing things up based on the time of year. Are you trying to be festive this holiday season? Go for Christmas colors and get red and green rubber bands. Do you want to flaunt your spooky side for Halloween? Black and orange bands are the way to go. In addition to picking seasonal colors, you could adjust based on events in your life. If you have a sports game coming up, for example, you could pick bands that match your team's colors.

3) Physical Appearance

A great way to figure out the best color for you is by using your appearance. Start by picking a physical feature, then think about which colors go well with that feature. Here are a few starting points to base your braces color on:

• Skin tone. Darker skin tones tend to go well with bright jewel tones, like emerald green, ruby red, and violet. Lighter skin tones match cooler colors like light blue and green.
• Eye color. If you have brown eyes, earthy colors such as blue and green are a great choice. For lighter eyes, you'll want bright colors that can make them pop. Lilac, light blue, and pink tend to go well with lighter eye colors.
• Hair color. As with skin tones, dark hair goes well with bolder jewel tones. In contrast, light blonde hair suits cooler colors.

A helpful way to identify a complementary color is by using a braces color wheel. Start by choosing a certain physical feature, then locate its color on the wheel. Once you've found it, go to the matching color on the opposite side of the wheel. Whatever this color is, it should accentuate your chosen feature. If your dentist does not have a traditional color wheel, you can find one online.

How Bands Can Make Your Smile Look Whiter

Along with considering your general physical appearance, it's important to think about the appearance of your teeth. A common question that many patients ask is: what color braces make my teeth look whiter? If you're interested in whiter teeth, a dark color is the way to go. Darker colors, such as navy blue, dark purple, and black, provide a nice contrast to the natural whiteness of your teeth. This will make your teeth seem even brighter than they are.

What Braces Colors Make Your Teeth Look Yellow?

While some colors can help your teeth seem whiter, others can actually make your teeth look yellow. For example, clear and white braces can become discolored over time, causing a yellow appearance. Yellow and gold braces can look like stains or discoloration, so you probably want to avoid those colors.

What to Keep In Mind When Picking the Colors of Braces

Here are a few general tips to keep in mind when trying to find the best braces color:

• Avoid natural-looking colors. Try to avoid natural-looking bands that resemble food. Colors like brown and dark green can make it seem like you have meat or spinach stuck in your teeth.
• Follow good oral health habits. While going for a dark color can help your teeth appear more white, the best way to maintain a bright smile is through proper oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing will help prevent unwanted tooth discoloration.
• Get creative. Colored braces are a great way to show off your creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and try something new during your next appointment!

Along with picking a good color, it's important to work with a reputable team. At Risas Dental, we always put patients first. Whether you're trying to make your teeth seem whiter or need advice on a color combination for your child, you can count on us for expert advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did you know 92% of Americans would consider delaying dental care due to cost, and one in five skip it entirely? As financial pressures grow, demand and cost for braces are rising, but many households are putting off non-urgent dental treatments.

That’s why Risas Dental is stepping in to bridge that gap, making orthodontic care truly accessible for every patient, regardless of background. 

To better understand how access and affordability are reshaping orthodontic demand, we analyzed data revealing who is getting braces, how they’re affording it, and why more adults in Arizona, Colorado, Texas, and Nevada are choosing treatment. 

Who is getting braces in 2026? 

There is an upward trend among adults aged 25-45 choosing orthodontic treatment, driven by cost accessibility, a renewed focus on appearance, and functional dental benefits. Those aged 21-35 make up 50% of all orthodontic patients. 

Our dental data found that women are slightly more likely than men to pursue orthodontic treatment, but the percentage difference is slim, suggesting that overall the audience is gender-balanced. 

The top-performing regions for orthodontics are Phoenix, Denver, Tucson, Las Vegas, and San Antonio. Specifically, Aurora North saw the highest number of procedures compared to other cities, with well over 1,000. South Tucson saw 750, followed by Federal Heights.

So, if the demand for braces is rising, yet the percentage of Americans delaying or skipping dental care is huge, how are people affording it?

At Risas Dental, we offer several payment options to choose from, making dental care more affordable. Most of our patients select our payment plans to help spread the cost over weeks or months, making dental costs much more accessible for families and adults in 2026. 

Risas dental care standards 

There are many reasons someone may need braces, from improved oral health and reduced jaw pain to better confidence and self-image.

To highlight a few more reasons why people are prioritizing braces in 2026, we asked real patients how braces helped them.

Life-saving braces intervention 

In El Mirage, we’ll never forget this incredible story of when a child needed an emergency dentist in Phoenix after a dangerous accident. 

“My daughter had a serious scooter accident… her two front teeth suffered 50–75% avulsion, but her braces kept them in place. I contacted 20+ dental clinics, and no one would help. Risas Dental acted immediately and likely saved my daughter’s teeth. Their staff was exceptional, attentive, compassionate, and highly professional.”

Braces can be instrumental in urgent care needs and can have life-changing impacts on patients. 

Same-day affordable braces 

Risas strives towards being affordable and accessible to all families, so when Megan needed a dentist in South Tucson, she was in safe hands with us.

“Dr. Hooper and Dr. Hobson were great! They got my daughter’s braces on the same day as her cleaning. The team walked us through every step, and it was very affordable. Overall, a wonderful experience!”

Long-term transformation journey 

Stephanie went to a dentist in Phoenix for braces, and the journey led her to renewed confidence and better dental health. She said, 

“I was recommended to come here for my orthodontic journey, and I’m glad I did! I just got my braces off, and I’m happy with my results. Dr. Piekarsky was the best. He kept me informed throughout the whole process.”

Improving your oral health as an adult 

We asked a Risas Dental spokesperson what they made of our findings. 

“It’s never too late to improve your oral health. More adults are choosing braces now than ever before because they understand orthodontics goes beyond aesthetics. Straightening teeth and bite alignment can not only enhance confidence but also improve digestion, reduce jaw pain, improve speech, and protect against long-term issues like gum disease and tooth decay. 

“At Risas Dental, we’re committed to making those benefits accessible to every patient. We offer two orthodontic options to meet different needs. Our easy-maintenance metal braces are a budget-friendly choice for the entire family, or we often recommend our ceramic braces for adults looking for a more subtle way to enhance their smile.”

Book a consultation with Risas today 

If you’re ready to take the leap and improve your oral health, our team is here every step of the way. Risas Dental has trusted clinicians across the Southwest, making it simple to access the care you need, whether that’s orthodontics, routine dentistry, or urgent support

From finding an emergency dentist in San Antonio to visiting a dentist in Denver, or scheduling with an implant dentist in Las Vegas, our clinics are ready to give you affordable, patient-first care wherever you are. 

When it comes to your smile, there’s no better time to start. Book your orthodontic consultation today.

All the above data was provided to C3 by Risas Dental and Braces' internal data team and is correct as of November 2025.

The state of children’s oral health

Many of the most common oral health issues begin at home, specifically with childhood habits. Poor routines developed early can lead to long-term dental issues, from cavities and gum disease to confidence issues and costly treatments.

So, how often are kids really brushing? Are trips to the dentist a regular occurrence? And how confident do parents feel about teaching their children the right oral hygiene techniques?

To find out, the team at Risas Dental conducted a survey of 1,500 parents to uncover the current state of children’s oral health. From brushing battles to sugar struggles, the results reveal what’s really going on when it comes to oral hygiene in American households.

Brushing battles & bathroom routines

When it comes to their children’s dental hygiene, most parents feel as though they have things under control. We found that 87% of parents are confident about family brushing habits, with just 9% expressing doubt. Confidence is the highest among parents with 1-2 children (86-88%), yet it dips to just 76% in families with four or more kids. This suggests that the more children in the home, the harder it might be for parents to keep tabs on everyone’s brushing routines.

Digging deeper, a quarter of parents admit that getting their kids to brush daily is a battle, with this struggle worsening in households with 3 or more children (where 37% often face resistance). Still, 28% of our participants revealed that their kids willingly brush on most days of the week.

However, despite good intentions, 51% of children are finding ways to dodge brushing altogether. Nearly half (47%) are only brushing for a few seconds, 13% are skipping toothpaste, and 25% are pretending to brush. These behaviors become more common as family size increases, rising from 21% in a one-child family to 32% in a 3-child family.

Parental role modeling influences the hygiene habits children adopt too. We found that 59% of kids see their parents brush twice a day. Meanwhile, 23% see them brush once a day, and a smaller but still notable percentage (3%) never see their parents brush at all. On average, children are brushing independently at 4.36 years old, and in big families, solo brushing starts as young as 2.7 years.

We also found a strong desire among parents for schools to step in, with 87% believing that dental hygiene (particularly effective brushing) should be taught in the classroom.

Snacks, sugar & shortcuts

Diet plays a crucial role in oral hygiene too, and it appears that many children are being exposed to significant amounts of sugar.

We found that commonly consumed items include flavored milk (59%), juice (57%), and fruit snacks (51%). Almost half of those we surveyed said that their children consume ice cream and fast food regularly, too.

What’s more, parents with more children are more likely to allow sugary treats and drinks, with this combination of sugar and short brushing times putting children at a higher risk of issues down the line.

Tooth Fairy economics

While it might just seem like a fun tradition, the Tooth Fairy can offer an interesting glimpse into how families value and engage with their children’s oral health.

When asked about how much they typically leave under their kids’ pillow, the average stands at around $6.55, with 39% of parents leaving between $2–$5. Single parents tend to leave slightly less ($5.65), compared to couples ($7.02).

The most generous payouts come from two-child families (averaging $7.18 per tooth), while families with four or more kids leave an average of $5.14.

While the amount left doesn’t directly reflect brushing habits or tooth health, it does signal how families recognize dental milestones. A visit from the Tooth Fairy can be more than just exciting for kids, it can help build positive associations with taking care of their teeth.

Teeth, teasing & well-being

Dental hygiene is important for more reasons than one. Inadequate care can lead to teasing and future confidence issues in children, with kids becoming sensitive about their teeth. 

Our survey revealed that 26% of children have been teased about their teeth before, with this rising to 33% in 2-child families. We also found that many children are missing activities due to dental issues, including school (16%), sports (11%), and family events (13%). Missing meals (17%) and sleep disruption (16%) were also brought up as additional issues.

As for how children feel about their teeth, 45% reported feeling confident and proud, while 32% feel more neutral about their smiles. A smaller group struggles with negative emotions, with 7% feeling anxious, 6% feeling embarrassed, and 5% feeling frustrated.

Interestingly, children in larger families (4+ children) are the most confident (57%), despite more shortcuts and diet drawbacks.

Final thoughts

So, what can we take away from our survey on the state of children’s oral health? Here are some final insights from our Risas Kids Clinical Director, Dr. Elizabeth Walton: 

“The survey highlights the vital role parents play in shaping their children’s oral health, as well as the unique challenges they face, especially those with multiple children. Whether it’s modeling proper brushing, establishing consistent routines, or seeking expert advice, parents are the first line of defense against stopping dental issues before they arise.”

“Finding the time to supervise your children until they can confidently brush solo is key, as well as encouraging them to brush twice a day for at least two minutes. Limiting sugary snacks, booking regular dentist visits, and flossing once they’re old enough are also crucial. Together, these habits can help prevent costly problems.”

“Our findings make another thing clear: oral health impacts much more than just a child’s smile. With more than a quarter of kids admitting to being teased about their teeth, and many more missing important activities due to dental issues, proper care, both at home and in professional settings, is essential.”

Well, there you have it: our insights on the state of children’s oral health across America. With effective brushing habits, as well as encouragement from parents and caregivers, children’s oral hygiene can dramatically improve, reducing the risk of long-term issues and expensive treatments.

It’s not only at-home care that’s crucial though, with regular check-ups also playing a key part in ensuring a healthy smile. If your child is due a check-up soon, you can browse our kids dental services for expert, personalized oral health guidance.

And if you’re in the Phoenix area, we now offer children’s dentistry at our first Risas Kids Dental office! With flexible early morning and after-school appointment times, plus free exams for children under two, we offer professional dental care for the whole family.

For more information on available treatments, browse our full list of locations. Or if you’re looking for additional insights, read a couple more of our blog posts including: How to make the first Tooth Fairy visit magical, and when do kids start losing teeth?

Methodology

3Gem survey of 1,500 US parents aged 18+ with children aged 2–15.

 [LM1]Insert commentary explaining the long-term implications of poor brushing habits formed early in life, including preventable cavities, enamel erosion, and costly interventions.