New Study Suggests High Gum Disease Risk in UK Adults

New Study Suggests High Gum Disease Risk in UK Adults

A leading dental expert has warned that levels of gum disease in British adults could be higher than previously thought. Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, voiced his concerns following an American study which suggested that the prevalence of periodontal disease in the US may have been underestimated by as much as 50%.

"The study shows that gum disease is a bigger problem than we previously thought and although this news comes from across the Atlantic it could well apply to us here in the UK as well."

Periodontal disease describes an inflammation or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. In early stages the gums around the teeth can become very red and swollen and often bleed when they are brushed but in later stages the disease is largely symptomless. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, and may also interfere with other systems of the body.

Recent studies have shown links between gum disease and more serious health problems such as strokes, diabetes, heart disease and pre-term births, so it really is very important to prevent and treat the condition.

Gum disease can be prevented by brushing your teeth thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, in addition to using inter-dental brushes or floss to clean in between the teeth. If bleeding gums occur this may be an early sign of periodontal disease, so you should increase your tooth brushing and ensure you are using the right kind of toothpaste. If the problem does not settle within a few days you should make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible.

Regular dental checkups are also a vital element of tooth and gum care. Your dentist will be able to thoroughly clean your teeth and advise you of any potential problems. Dental health experts recommend a dental check-up at least every six months for most adults.

Sovereign Healthcare offers a dental cash plan which allows you to claim money back on the costs of a range of dental health care treatments including regular check-ups and hygienist fees at private and NHS dental surgeries.

This article is based on a press release originally published by the British Dental Health Foundation. For more information visit their website at http://www.dentalhealth.org.ukhttp://www.dentalhealth.org.uk">http://www.dentalhealth.org.uk

POST COMMENT

Seasonal Affective Disorder - Symptoms and Remedies For "SAD" Depressive disorders How To Start Growing Winter Tomatoes For A Supply Of Homegrown Organic Tomatoes All Year Round? Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Winter Tomatoes Top Ten Reason Why You Should Switch From Smoking Real Tobacco Cigarette to Electronic Cigarette How to Beat the Winter Blues with a Light Box Wellness The Sunrise Industry Starting Your Profession as a Bodyguard Americans Use Less Health Care, Pay More Defensive Driving Tip: Drive carefully in the winters! Does Fibromyalgia Cause Insomnia? Stay fit and healthy with health products Warning: Redundancy can seriously damage your health Hemorrhoids and What is the Treatment of Hemorrhoids