University Oral Hygiene Behaviors Compared to the National Population

University Oral Hygiene Behaviors Compared to the National Population

Alvin Sherman Library

Maintaining optimal oral health is essential for preventing dental caries, periodontal disease, and systemic complications. However, the combined effects of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash, which are common oral practices, remain incompletely understood. While each practice has been studied individually, there is limited data existing that evaluates how different brands and the frequency of use interact to influence the oral environment. In this study, we use a cohort of 40 university aged individuals to examine oral hygiene behaviors compared to the general U.S. population. In regard to flossing, national data suggests that this behavior is the least consistently utilized method of oral care, something not reflected without our university cohort. Our research also found that individuals who reported consistent brushing combined with regular flossing and mouthwash use generally exhibited a slightly more basic salivary pH levels (8.3 average) compared to the national average (7.5). Variability in the pH was observed across mouthwash types and hygiene frequencies which suggests that oral care behaviors collectively shape the biochemical environment or the oral cavity and studies have shown higher oral pH can impact enamel remineralization. Collectively, the NSU data and US literature will help us better understand how using consistent positive health hygiene tactics (brushing, mouthwash, and flossing) contribute to a healthier community overall. Future research on this study should expand on sample size, examine specific mouthwash formulations, and explore the changes in salivary chemistry to better inform evidence-based oral health recommendations.