Survey explores reasons why people don't floss regularly

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Though the American Dental Hygienists' Association recommends daily flossing, Americans don't floss as often as they should, according to a new survey by an oral care products manufacturer.

Plackers announced results of an online survey of 202 adults in which 40% said they didn't floss because they forgot, while 30% said they didn't have floss handy when they needed it. Meanwhile, 49% of those who use flossers said they had a problem with the floss shredding, while 28% experienced floss breakage. According to the ADHA, only 1-in-5 people floss regularly.

The survey polled 202 adults through SurveyMonkey.com. A representative of Plackers told Drug Store News it was not meant to be scientific, but was designed to get a pulse on consumer attitudes and behavior.

"For 40 years, Plackers has been working on ways to make it easier for people to protect their smiles and enjoy good oral health," VP marketing of Plackers parent company Ranir Jim Peliotes said in a statement. "Innovative features like our Super Tuffloss can help people say 'yes' to flossing regularly."