Most U.S. adults brush and floss daily, but only 55% replace their toothbrushes every three months as recommended, according to Delta Dental's 2026 State of America's Oral Health and Wellness Report.
Nearly three-quarters of adults reported brushing twice a day (72%) and flossing daily (73%). Of those who don't replace their toothbrushes on schedule, 46% said they forget, 42% wait until the bristles look worn, and 30% don't buy a replacement during routine shopping trips.
The report also found that 89% of adults who visited a dentist in 2025 did so for preventive care, up from 84% in 2024. Among children, twice-daily brushing rose to 75% from 67%, and daily flossing climbed to 64% from 50%.
The report was released in May 2026, but Delta Dental Plans Association highlighted the findings for National Dental Hygiene Month in October. The online survey of 1,000 U.S. adults and 1,000 parents of children ages 12 and younger was conducted in January 2026.
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