The National Centre for Social Research has released the findings of its Adult Oral Health Survey. The report, which reveals the findings of the Adult Oral Health Survey 2023 shows that levels of tooth decay among adults in England are now similar to those last seen more than 25 years ago.
The report also notes that 41% of adults present with obvious signs of rotten teeth when examined, which echoes similar to levels in 1998, while being up from 28% in 2009. The survey describes this as “almost a reversal of the previous improvement.”
42% responded that their oral health impacted their daily life, up from 33% in 2009, while 19% were suffering from potentially urgent conditions, such as dental pain and deep decay.
Regular attendance to the dentist has also declined. Four in 10 said they were unable to find a dentist, while 31% said they cannot afford to pay.
The British Dental Association has responded, damning the data. BDA Chair Eddie Crouch said: “Hard won gains on oral health are going into reverse. Government needs to double down – and deliver promised reforms and vital investment. Without real commitment NHS dentistry won’t have a future and the nation’s oral health gap will widen further.”
Meanwhile, the Oral Health Foundation’s Chief Executive, Dr Nigel Carter OBE, commented: “These figures are a stark warning that England is heading backwards on oral health. To see levels of decay returning to those last recorded in the late 1990s is simply unacceptable and entirely preventable. We urgently need national action to make healthier choices easier, improve access to dental care, and address the widening inequalities that are leaving millions behind. Unless we act now, we risk a generation living with worse oral health than their parents and grandparents.”
Providing an industry perspective, Jayant Singh, Global Head of Oral Health at specialist health leader Haleon, added: “Oral diseases are widespread and preventable, yet simple habits like brushing for two minutes, twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste are still not universal – with one in three people in the UK not meeting the recommended twice-daily brushing standard.
“There is so much more to be done and we are committed to partnering with healthcare professionals and governments to deliver solutions that support better oral health globally.”
