20 October 2026

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Delta Dental Report Highlights Oral Hygiene Habits in 2026

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The findings show that adults continue to prioritize daily oral hygiene habits, with nearly three-quarters reporting that they brush twice per day (72%) and floss daily (73%).

In recognition of National Dental Hygiene Month, Delta Dental highlights key findings from its 2026 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report , a nationwide analysis of consumer opinions and behaviors related to oral health.

The findings show that adults continue to prioritize daily oral hygiene habits, with nearly three-quarters reporting that they brush twice per day (72%) and floss daily (73%).

Despite these strong routines, only 55% of adults replace their toothbrush every three months, as recommended. Among those who do not replace their toothbrush on schedule, nearly half (46%) say they simply forget, while 42% wait until the bristles appear worn and 30% do not purchase a replacement during routine shopping trips.

“Adults are prioritizing their oral health, maintaining strong hygiene routines, and increasingly seeking preventive dental care,” said James W. Hutchison, president and CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association. “While these findings are encouraging, there are opportunities to reinforce everyday habits that support long-term oral health. Through our commitment to advancing access, education, and prevention, and in collaboration with dentists and other oral health practitioners nationwide, we are working to improve oral health outcomes and support lifelong wellness.”

Additional key findings from the 2026 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report include:

To read the 2026 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report and learn more about the research methodology and full findings, click here .

Delta Dental Plans Association commissioned a third-party market research firm, Material Holdings, LLC, to conduct the research that formed the basis of this report. Material conducted the research between January 5 and January 15, 2026, using email invitations and online surveys of audiences recruited through an opt-in panel:

Geographic distribution quotas were set to ensure reliable representation of the U.S. population. The margin of error is ±3%.

Based in Chicago, Illinois, Delta Dental Plans Association is the not-for-profit national association of the 39 independent Delta Dental companies. Through these companies, Delta Dental is the nation’s largest dental benefits provider and offers the country’s largest dental network, with approximately 151,000 participating dentists. Over the last 16 years, Delta Dental companies and their foundations have invested more than $2.4 billion to improve the oral and overall health of our communities.

Source: https://www.deltadental.com/state-of-americas-oral-health-report/