Over Half of UK Adults Will Have Dental Disease by 2050, According to Research
Oral diseases are among the most widespread chronic illnesses globally. An estimated 3.5 billion people are affected by tooth decay and gum disease. It shows how oral diseases pose a significant problem not just because they are common but because they can cause serious health complications. Untreated oral diseases can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss. Research also shows gum disease has a mutual relationship with many other serious diseases, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Oral diseases are the fourth most expensive group of diseases to treat globally and can cause significant economic burdens. It also can impact productivity, which can be reduced due to absence from school and work. The prevalence of tooth decay and gum diseases in UK adults from 2020 to 2050 can be predicted using advanced modelling techniques. It is found that half of the UK’s population could be living with some form of dental disease by 2050.
The UK’s 2009 Adult Dental Health Survey (ADHS) data is used in a simulation model. Participants were divided into groups according to their oral health status. Each group was split into three categories depending on the presence and severity of the person’s condition. It has been found that the number of people living with gum disease is set to increase from 42% of the UK’s population to 54% of the population by 2050.
The number of people with symptoms of gum disease (such as gum pockets and gum tissue loss) is expected to increase from 25.7 million in 2020 to 28 million by 2050. The number of people with gum tissue loss alone will increase from 18.7 million in 2020 to 21 million by 2050. The burden of tooth decay and gum disease is anticipated to shift from younger adults (16–59 years) to older adults. It shows how it is important for people in their 30s and 40s to have good dental care now and as they age. The model used population-based data from the 2009 ADHS survey, so prevalence rates for dental diseases remain constant over time. More recent survey data can give an accurate projection of the future of oral health in the UK.
Improving Oral Health
Many factors can contribute to poor dental health, such as poor oral hygiene (not brushing twice daily or smoking). New research by the Oral Health Foundation reveals the five most common oral health conditions affecting adults in the UK. The data was collected by the charity’s National Smile Month campaign. It shows that more than three-in-four (76%) adults have experienced dental problems in the past year.
These results show how common oral health problems are and how they can be prevented if people are aware of them. During National Smile Month, the charity is helping everyone understand why good oral health is important and how to keep teeth and gums healthy. Dental experts have given advice on the five most common oral health problems and how to manage and prevent them.
Sensitive teeth
It is one of the most common oral health problems in the UK, affecting more than one in three (35%) adults. Sensitive teeth are often characterised by a sharp pain in your teeth when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet. It can happen if you brush too hard, have gum disease, or eat many acidic foods or drinks, damaging your teeth’ enamel. Brushing with the correct pressure, using toothpaste designed for sensitivity, and eating a diet low in acidic food and drinks can help manage sensitive teeth.
Bleeding gums
This condition often occurs when brushing or flossing. It is another common oral health issue, affecting 34% of adults in the past year.
A typical sign of gum disease ranges from the reversible stage of gingivitis to the more severe and irreversible stage of periodontitis. Regular and thorough brushing with fluoridated toothpaste twice daily, cleaning between the teeth, and a good mouthwash can help remove plaque and ward off gum disease. Routine dental check-ups can help in early detection and treatment of gum disease.
Toothache
It is the UK’s third most common oral health problem, experienced by one in four (24%) adults. A toothache is a constant pain in or around a tooth.
Various issues such as tooth decay, a damaged filling, a tooth fracture, or an abscessed tooth can cause toothache. The pain from a toothache is persistent and does not go away when the hot, cold, or sweet stimulus is removed. The pain can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers and by avoiding extremely hot or cold foods at home. However, these are temporary solutions. If the pain persists, it signals that your body needs professional help. Neglecting a toothache can lead to serious complications, such as the spread of infection, abscesses, tooth loss, and decreased quality of life. Seek professional dental care if you have persistent toothache.
Dry mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common oral health issue in the UK, affecting nearly one in six (17%) adults. It is often characterised by a persistent feeling of dryness in the mouth. Many factors, such as dehydration, medication side effects, or certain medical conditions, cause dry mouth. Staying hydrated, using a saliva substitute, and maintaining good oral hygiene can help manage dry mouth. Seek professional dental advice if you are experiencing persistent dry mouth.
Bad breath
It is also known as halitosis, is another frequent oral health issue in the UK, affecting one in six (17%) adults. Bad breath is an unpleasant smell from the mouth. Many factors, such as poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, or certain foods and drinks, cause it. Regular and thorough brushing and flossing, staying hydrated, and a balanced diet can help to manage bad breath and reclaim fresh breath. Persistent bad breath is a sign of a more serious oral health issue. Seek professional dental care if you are experiencing bad breath for a longer time.
Maintaining good oral health is important, not just for a radiant smile but for overall well-being. Oral health is a window to your general health. Sometimes, gum disease is associated with diabetes, heart disease, and other inflammatory conditions. Regular dental care can prevent these problems, enhance self-esteem, and improve quality of life. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste keeps your teeth and gums healthy.
Be mindful of your sugar intake. Regular visits to your dental team are crucial for early detection and treatment of dental issues. Remember, prevention is better than cure.