(AP)--More men practice healthy dental habits at the office than women, according to a recent survey from the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America.
Two in five men either brush or floss their teeth at work after a meal or snack, while the number of women find the practice inappropriate or impolite. Only 26 percent of women said they would brush their teeth at work, and just 22 percent would floss.
However, nearly 90 percent of all respondents said there was a strong connection between overall physical health and dental hygiene.
"It would seem obvious that anyone who is concerned about their teeth would pick up a toothbrush or some dental floss at the right time, which would be after a meal," said Dr. Richard Goren of Guardian. "But clearly the perceived social awkwardness of being seen brushing your teeth outweighs that concern."
On a positive note, seven in 10 adults visit the dentist at least once a year, while nearly 35 percent make it once every six months.
The survey polled 1,000 consumers over the telephone in late September.
