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A new survey of U.S. parents reveals surprising brushing battles, sugary habits, and the rising cost of the Tooth Fairy.
The latest Risas Kids Dental survey has discovered what’s really going on in America’s bathrooms.
Parents may think they’re winning the nightly brushing battle but the data says otherwise.
- 51% of kids admit to finding ways to skip brushing, from “pretending to brush” (25%) to skipping toothpaste entirely (13%).
- Nearly half (47%) brush for only a few seconds, well below dentist recommendations.
And for larger families, the struggle only grows: while most parents with one or two children feel confident in their household’s brushing habits (86-88%), that number plunges to just 76% among parents of four or more proof that even the best-intentioned routines are tough to keep on track.
The findings reveal broader social and emotional impacts, too:
- 26% of children have been teased about their teeth, with bullying rates highest in two-child families (33%).
- 16% have missed school, and 17% have skipped meals due to dental pain or embarrassment.
And when the Tooth Fairy visits? She’s never been more generous. The average pay-out now stands at $6.55 per tooth with 39% of parents leaving between $2-$5, up from roughly $3 a decade ago with some parents leaving over $20.
- Single parents tend to leave slightly less ($5.65), compared to couples ($7.02).
- The most generous pay outs come from two-child families (averaging $7.18 per tooth), while families with four or more kids leave $5.14.
“While the amount left doesn’t directly reflect brushing habits or tooth health, it does signal how families recognize dental milestones”. says Dr Walton. “A visit from the Tooth Fairy can be more than just exciting for kids, it can help build positive associations with taking care of their teeth.”
The survey also revealed that 87% of parents believe dental hygiene should be taught in schools, pointing to a growing national demand for better early education around brushing and nutrition.
Commenting on the survey findings, Dr. Elizabeth Walton, Clinical Director at Risas Kids Dental, explains:
“The survey highlights the vital role parents play in shaping their children’s oral health, as well as the unique challenges they face, especially those with multiple children. Whether it’s modelling proper brushing, establishing consistent routines, or seeking expert advice, parents are the first line of defence against stopping dental issues before they arise.”
“Finding the time to supervise your children until they can confidently brush solo is key, as well as encouraging them to brush twice a day for at least two minutes. Limiting sugary snacks, booking regular dentist visits, and flossing once they’re old enough are also crucial. Together, these habits can help prevent costly problems.”
“Our findings make another thing clear: oral health impacts much more than just a child’s smile. With more than a quarter of kids admitting to being teased about their teeth, and many more missing important activities due to dental issues, proper care, both at home and in professional settings, is essential.”
To view the full survey, visit >> https://risasdental.com/the-state-of-childrens-oral-health/
Methodology
3Gem survey of 1,500 US parents aged 18+ with children aged 2–15.
Sources
Dr Walton Clinical Director of Risas Kids Dental https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-walton-522b4826
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