Hidden dangers of poor oral health
Whilst it is true that as many as 7 out of 10 people know that poor oral health can have an impact on the rest of the body, in general we are not as knowledgeable when it comes to diseases that have potential links to neglected teeth and gums.
Healthcare provider Simplyhealth has carried out new research showing that while a third of over 5,000 people polled are aware that poor oral health can be linked to cardiovascular disease and mouth cancer, only a small number of adults know that deficient dental care can also be linked to dementia, pancreatic cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Perhaps the most shocking discovery and greatest concern is that 22 per cent of adults admit they wouldn’t change their current oral health habits, even with the knowledge that poor care of the mouth, teeth and gums is strongly linked to more serious health conditions.
Although we are taught from a young age to brush our teeth at least twice a day, a troubling 20 per cent of people in the Simplyhealth survey admit they sometimes forget to do this. For 25 to 34 year olds this figure climbs to 25 per cent. This could indicate that a large proportion of UK adults are still unaware of how best to maintain a good standard of oral health.
To ensure teeth and gums are properly cared for it is essential that, as well as going for regular dental check-ups, patients uphold their own dental health on a daily basis. This can best be achieved by brushing teeth twice a day, regularly flossing, and rinsing with an alcohol free mouth wash.
