Get them in the habit

Maxwell O’Neill discusses the importance of understanding patient psychology.

Getting patients to follow an effective oral care routine at home is easier said than done. There are always patients who don’t brush their teeth enough or who refuse to floss – and this can be very frustrating, especially as these behaviours are likely to put them at higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

But why are people so bad at following oral hygiene routines? By delving into the psychology behind the problem, a solution can often be found. 

Oral hygiene habits at home
According to a YouGov survey that assessed the brushing habits of the British public, a staggering 30 per cent of people don’t brush their teeth twice a day and two per cent don’t brush them at all. What’s particularly concerning about these survey results is the likelihood that the numbers could be higher – when faced with surveys where people know there is a correct answer to give, many people will give that answer to make them appear better than they are.