Cultural Differences in Oral Hygiene Habits Worldwide

Daily oral hygiene routines vary significantly across cultures, shaped by traditions, available tools and public health infrastructure. At By The Lake Dental, our dentists and dental team recognise these differences and use that understanding to offer personalised dental care, particularly for patients from diverse cultural backgrounds.

According to the WHO, oral diseases impact approximately 3.7 billion people globally. The most prevalent conditions include dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss and oral cancer. High sugar consumption, tobacco use, alcohol and poor hygiene are common risk factors worldwide.

Research published via Elsevier shows that daily toothbrushing and flossing are key in preventing plaque and gingivitis. Despite this, WHO data highlights a wide gap in access to effective hygiene tools: in many low- and middle-income countries, fluoridated toothpaste is unaffordable or unavailable.

Efforts to integrate oral health into universal health coverage are underway. The WHO’s Global Oral Health Action Plan (2023–2030) sets targets for equitable access to fluoride, clean water and preventive services. These initiatives aim to reduce the burden of untreated caries, currently affecting over 2.5 billion people, and improve care for periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Oral hygiene practices reflect deep cultural traditions. For example, in Ethiopia and parts of Sudan, people often use chewing sticks made from the Mefakia tree, passed down through generations as a natural toothbrush. In some regions of Japan, it is common for schoolchildren to brush their teeth collectively after lunch, a practice supported by national policy to promote hygiene from an early age. In Scandinavian countries, public education has fostered a strong habit of flossing and using fluoride rinses, contributing to some of the lowest decay rates in the world.

At By The Lake Dental, we see how cultural habits influence oral health outcomes. In every case, our dental clinic seeks to bridge tradition and best practice by:

• Educating our patients on the importance of regular oral hygiene visits and proper home care techniques.

• Encouraging regular toothbrushing with fluoride

• Promoting flossing or interdental cleaning

• Advising on diet, particularly reducing sugary foods

These practical steps align with WHO’s guidance: brushing twice daily, reducing sugar intake, eliminating tobacco and alcohol, and integrating oral hygiene into daily routines.

No matter which country you call home, good oral hygiene is built on consistent habits and access to basic preventive tools. At By The Lake Dental, our dentists and dental team are here to support each patient, whether you grew up with a manual toothbrush, an electric one or a traditional chewing stick, to enhance your oral health and prevent dental disease.

Contact By The Lake Dental, your favourite dental office in Ajax and Scarborough, and book your appointment today.

Why Choose By The Lake Dental:

✅ +15 years caring for our community’s oral health needs

✅ A Platinum+ Invisalign dental office

✅ Direct billing to benefit provider

✅ Cutting-edge technology

✅ Full service family care

✅ Concierge experience

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Call us today: Ajax 905-428-2111, Highland Creek 416-284-8282.

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