Study finds 39% of British adults brush their teeth once a week

 Four in ten British adults only brush once a week, according to a study by Hive.

Of those surveyed, 30% of adults between the ages of 25 and 34 said they usually forget to brush their teeth.

Even more surprising results showed that one in four people might share a toothbrush. The researchers note that this may increase the risk of transmitting gum disease to others because toothbrushes collect plaque and bacteria.

In addition, 36% have never used mouthwash in their lifetime, while one in three have not had a dentist – this may be due to the fact that Britons don't usually share dental contact with other people.

Nearly half (49%) visit the dentist more than four times a year – which dentists say is not good for hygiene. Dentists say people only need to visit twice a year.

Fortunately, not all results show Britons have poor hygiene habits - 63 per cent brush their teeth three times a day, more than the recommended average. Frequent brushing of teeth can reduce the risk of heart failure and ventricular fibrillation