Women Outdo Men in Oral Care

Women are better than men when it comes to caring for their teeth and gums, according to a new online survey of U.S. periodontists.

Ninety-seven percent of 201 periodontists quizzed by the American Academy of Periodontology said their female patients practice better oral hygiene habits than their male counterparts.

Nine of 10 periodontists surveyed said failing to floss regularly was a major shortcoming among their patients, and about six out of 10 said their patients' flossing technique could stand some improvement.

Unsatisfactory home care persists, the AAP said, despite the efforts of periodontists and their staff to teach patients proper oral hygiene techniques.

Nearly all periodontists surveyed said they or a staff member review oral home care techniques - and ask patients to demonstrate those techniques - either every visit or whenever it seems necessary