NZ can't handle the tooth

Kiwis are bad brushers. Photo / Martin Sykes

Kiwis are foul-mouthed ... literally. A new survey has revealed the nation's dislike for dental hygiene.

The study found that one in six New Zealanders hated brushing their teeth, ignoring expert advice that prevention is the best method of keeping the dreaded dentist away.

It also found 82 per cent don't floss once a day and three-quarters don't use a mouthwash daily.

Dr Rob Shearman, director of Auckland's Proudmouth Dentistry, warned that modern diets made it important to have good oral hygiene.

"Just about every food has sugar in it these days, plus there are all the sports drinks," he said.

The survey also showed around one in 10 admit to brushing less often than once a day.

Despite the poor oral hygiene 81 per cent said they are happy with their own smile just the way it is and are not concerned with maintaining its appearance.

But despite being comfortable with their own smile, they proved picky with others'.

Nine out of 10 people said a smile from a stranger could make the day brighter.

It had to be the "right kind" of smile, with 77 per cent saying yellow teeth ruined the effect.