A third of people in Manchester admit to brushing their teeth only once a day, a survey from Wrigley has revealed.
This means Mancunians could be carrying up to 251kg of lingering food in their mouths after they’ve eaten.
Wrigley has suggested chewing sugar free gum after eating to combat the problem, to ensure your teeth stay healthy.
Dr Nigel L Carter, Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF), said: “Along with regular check-ups, twice daily brushing and cleaning in between teeth with interdental brushes or floss, chewing sugar free gum after eating and drinking is a great addition to your oral care routine.”
The study did reveal that oral health was important to 93% of the people surveyed, so MM took to the streets of Manchester to find out how much our pearly whites matter.
Retired Harriet Prestley, 56 from Trafford, said: ‘’People should be brushing their teeth twice a day, it’s not nice to think people are only doing it once.’’
Matthew Goodman, 22, a student from Fallowfield, said: ‘’I only brush my teeth once a day, is that bad?’’
Steve Butler, 32, a builder from Middleton, said: ‘’It’s just Wrigleys scaremongering to sell more chewing gum, I bet it doesn’t make a difference.’’
Jennifer Morgan, 21, a sales assistant from Chorlton, said: ‘’I always chew gum after eating, I hate the thought of smelly breath.’’
Jess Ingrid, 39 a receptionist, Stretford, said: ‘’The thought of all that food build up is disgusting.’’
Sarah Hill, 48, Business owner, Didsbury: ‘’It’s important to have a nice smile, it does give you confidence when speaking to people.’’
Wrigley have created a photo in St. Ann’s Square to show the amount of food that could be left in Manchester’s mouths each week.
National Smile Month, the UK’s largest oral health campaign established in 1976, began on Monday May 20 and continues until June 20.
The campaign seeks to improve oral health by promoting twice daily brushing, cutting down on sugary food and drinks, plus regular visits to the dentist.
This year, oral healthcare giants Wrigley, Listerine and Oral-B have teamed up to promote the campaign.
Image courtesy of XL Recordings, via YouTube, with thanks.
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