DT News - UK - Large number of Brits unaware of consequences of poor oral health

Dental Tribune International

Sun. 5 May 2013

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ANDOVER – Although many studies have proven that poor oral health negatively affects a person’s overall health too, three in ten people may not be aware of this link. A recent survey has shown that only a small number of adults know that inadequate oral hygiene can lead to severe diseases such as dementia and arthritis.

On behalf of Simplyhealth, a UK health-care provider, the survey was conducted online among 5,000 adults between 25 March and 2 April. It demonstrated that about 33 per cent of the people polled knew that poor oral health is associated with cardiovascular disease, while almost 60 per cent knew that it is linked to mouth cancer. However, only 6 per cent were aware of the link between poor oral health and dementia, and 5 percent knew about an association with pancreatic cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, 22 per cent reported that they would not change their current oral health habits even if they knew that poor oral health is related to more serious health conditions. The number was especially high among those aged 25 to 34 (25 per cent).

According to James Glover, Simplyhealth spokesperson, 20 per cent of the people surveyed stated that they do not brush twice a day and 11 per cent said that they do not rinse after brushing. However, 11 per cent reported waiting for half an hour after eating before brushing their teeth. Both habits contribute to good oral health, according to the British Dental Health Foundation.

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