Three in 10 millennials put off dental visits over the last 12 months

More than one fifth (22%) of 16 to 24 year olds have felt less motivated to look after their teeth over the last year.

This is according to new research from Mintel. 

And almost three in 10 (28%) millennials – which includes those aged 25 to 40 – and almost one quarter of all Brits have delayed their dental visits in the last 12 month.

In addition around 36% of millennials struggled to access a dentist, in comparison to 30% of Brits.

Interest in whitening

Emilia Greenslade, research analyst at Mintel, said: 'Lower general motivation and increased cost concerns are likely to have put off younger Brits, in particular, from visiting their dentists, as well as taking the focus off their appearance, with 13% of 16-24s saying they cared less about the appearance of their teeth over the last 12 months.'

However the pandemic has, in fact, encouraged many Brits to consider more treatment. 

For example one in five (20%) have expressed interest in having teeth whitening carried out by a dental professional.

Unsurprising

In addition, mouthwash sales soared by a significant 9% – up from £160 million in 2019 to £175 million in 2020. 

With 42% of adults agreeing that wearing a mask makes you more aware of how fresh your breath is, this statistic may be unsurprising. 

'However, hygiene concerns resulting from the pandemic drove an interest in mouthwash due to its antibacterial properties, as well as fresh breath concerns linked to extended mask wearing,' Emilia added.