Bda Survey Shows Improved Oral Health In Uk Adults
A survey conducted by the British Dental Health Association (BDA) has highlighted continuing improvement in adult oral health. The 2009 Adult Dental Health Survey (ADHS) was published this month, and shows that 86% of British adults had 21 or more natural teeth, compared to 74% in 1978.
However, the report also highlights the importance of affordable dental healthcare, showing that people on lower incomes are more likely to suffer from poor oral health.
Professor Damien Walmsley, scientific officer with the BDA, found the report generally encouraging. “This survey confirms that the condition of people’s teeth overall has got much better since this survey was first carried out. Fluoride toothpaste, greater awareness of the importance of a healthy diet and regular visits to the dentist have all undoubtedly contributed to the better dental health we see in adults today.
“While the growing number of patients retaining more of their teeth into later life is, of course, excellent news, this improvement brings its own challenges. The way that teeth are cared for will need to evolve to ensure that these challenges are met.”
However, he described the link in low income and poorer oral health as ‘depressing’. “Addressing this must be a priority for the UK’s governments” he adds.
A total of 11,380 adults were interviewed for the survey, and 6,469 adults were examined, making this the largest ever epidemiological survey of adult dental health in the UK.
The study, which gives a snapshot of adults’ teeth across England, Northern Ireland and Wales, also suggested regional variations in oral health, with a greater percentage of adults in Wales showing poor dental health compared to their counterparts in England.
Regular dental checkups are a vital part of ensuring good long-term oral health. If you have a health care cash plan from Sovereign Health Care, you can claim cash back towards dental health care treatment including fillings, check-ups and hygienist fees, x-rays and dentures, helping to make regular checkups and immediate response to any dental problems much more affordable.
