A national US poll published on January 28, 2025 found that more than one in three parents report their child experienced tooth decay, cavities, stained teeth, gum concerns, or tooth pain linked to oral hygiene habits over the prior two years. The poll, conducted by the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, collected 1,801 responses from parents of children aged 4-17 in August 2024. Problems were more common among children who skipped or inconsistently followed dental hygiene recommendations.

Only 64% of parents said their child brushes twice a day, and roughly 60% reported brushing lasts at least two minutes. More specific practices fared worse: only a third of children regularly brush the tongue, fewer than a quarter floss regularly, and just 15% rinse with water after consuming sugary foods or drinks. Overall, only one in five parents said their child performs at least four of the six recommended oral health tasks on most days. Boys showed less consistency than girls.

For dental professionals seeing pediatric patients, these figures point to a persistent gap between basic brushing habits and fuller hygiene routines. The poll also found that 11% of children had not visited a dentist within the past year, with low-compliance children more likely to have skipped dental care. The American Dental Association recommends visits every six months.