By SHAUN WOOLLER HEALTH EDITOR FOR THE DAILY MAIL

Published: 00:01 BST, 27 May 2025 | Updated: 00:01 BST, 27 May 2025

Millions of Britons are putting their teeth at risk by bingeing on sugary treats after dinner and failing to brush before bed, dentists warn.

One in three adults (33 per cent) admit to snacking every night, with more than two in three (68 per cent) opting for the likes of chocolates, sweets and biscuits.

Meanwhile, almost half (47 per cent) go to sleep without brushing their teeth at least once a week, allowing sugar and bacteria to damage their gnashers overnight.

The Oral Health Foundation said this ‘dangerous double habit’ could lead to a rise in tooth decay and gum disease.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the charity, said: ‘These figures are a real wake-up call – the UK is becoming a nation of late-night snackers, and it’s our teeth that are paying the price.

‘Snacking on sugary treats every night and then skipping brushing before bed is a recipe for disaster.

‘When you don’t brush, sugar and bacteria stay on your teeth all night, producing acids that eat away at the enamel.

‘Over time, this can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.

Millions of Britons are putting their teeth at risk by bingeing on sugary treats after dinner and failing to brush before bed, dentists warn

Millions of Britons are putting their teeth at risk by bingeing on sugary treats after dinner and failing to brush before bed, dentists warn

‘Essentially, you’re giving harmful bacteria free rein to damage your mouth while you sleep.’

The Foundation’s study suggests up to 26 million British adults are tucking into sugary treats after dinner at least three times a week.

And it is young adults who are the worst offenders.

More than four-in-five (86 per cent) 18-to-24-year-olds admit to snacking at night, with most (81 per cent) reaching for sugar-packed treats.

Young people are also the most likely to skip brushing their teeth before bed.

Nearly half (43 per cent) say they miss the night time brush a few times a week – well above the national average of around one-in-three (36 per cent).

Dr Carter suggests patients should avoid snacking after an evening meal whenever possible.

He added: ‘If you do choose to snack, pick options that won’t harm your teeth.

‘Savoury choices like cheese, nuts, or breadsticks are much better for your oral health.

‘Save sugary treats for mealtimes and always remember – brushing your teeth before bed is essential. It’s your last line of defence against tooth decay.’

The Oral Health Foundation, which describes itself as the the leading national charity working to improve oral health, advises cleaning with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes twice a day and cutting down on sugary food and drinks.

It comes as public satisfaction with NHS dentistry is at an all-time low, with many people struggling to secure an appointment and having to resort to pulling out their own teeth at home.

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Millions of Britons putting teeth at risk by bingeing on sugary treats after dinner and failing to brush before bed, dentists warn

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