The data, collected as part of the charity’s National Smile Month campaign, shows that more than three-in-four (76 per cent) adults have experienced dental problems in the past year.
The Oral Health Foundation said the results show how common oral health problems are and that knowing more is a critical step in preventing them. During National Smile Month, the charity is helping the public understand the importance of good oral health and how to keep teeth and gums healthy.
Dental experts have provided advice on the five most common oral health problems and how to manage them.
Sensitive teeth
Suffering from sensitive teeth is the most common oral health problem in the UK, affecting more than one in three (35 per cent) adults.
Sensitivity is often characterised by a sharp pain in the teeth when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet. It can also happen if you brush too hard, have gum disease, or eat a lot of acidic foods and drinks.
Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation, said, “Living with sensitive teeth can be a silent struggle, often unseen but highly uncomfortable. Brushing with the correct pressure, using a toothpaste designed for sensitivity, and having a diet low in acidic food and drinks are the keys to managing sensitive teeth and reclaiming a pain-free smile.”
Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums, a condition often spotted when brushing or flossing, is another common oral health issue. It has affected 34 per cent of adults in the past year. This is typically a sign of gum disease, ranging from the reversible stage of gingivitis to the more severe and irreversible stage of periodontitis.
Miranda Steeples, a dental hygienist and dental therapist who is also president of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy, said, “Bleeding gums are a red flag, signalling inflammation due to plaque and debris left on the teeth. Don't overlook this sign. Regular and thorough brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste twice a day, cleaning between the teeth, and a good mouthwash if needed, can help remove plaque and ward off gum disease.
“Routine dental check-ups are key for early detection and treatment of gum disease. Prevention is the best strategy to avoid dental issues.”
Toothache
Toothache is the third most common oral health problem in the UK, experienced by nearly one in four (24 per cent) adults.
Unlike sensitive teeth, a toothache is a constant pain in or around a tooth. It can be caused by various issues, such as tooth decay, an abscessed tooth, a damaged filling, or a tooth fracture. The pain from a toothache is persistent and doesn’t go away when the hot, cold, or sweet stimulus is removed.
Nigel commented, "Enduring a toothache can be a relentless ordeal, impacting not just your oral health but your overall wellbeing. At home, you can alleviate the pain with over-the-counter pain relievers and by avoiding extremely hot or cold foods. However, these are temporary solutions. If the pain persists, it's a signal that your body needs professional help.
“Neglecting a toothache can lead to serious complications, including abscesses, spread of infection, tooth loss, and even a decreased quality of life. It's crucial to seek professional dental care if you're experiencing persistent toothache. Don't suffer in silence.”
Dry mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a prevalent oral health issue in the UK, affecting nearly one-in-six (17 per cent) adults. This condition is often characterised by a persistent feeling of dryness in the mouth, which can be due to various factors such as medication side effects, certain medical conditions, or dehydration.
Miranda added, "Living with dry mouth can be a daily challenge, often overlooked but causing significant discomfort. Staying hydrated, using a saliva substitute, and maintaining good oral hygiene are the keys to managing dry mouth and reclaiming a comfortable oral environment. If you're experiencing persistent dry mouth, it's important to seek professional dental advice to prevent further complications."
Bad breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is another prevalent oral health issue in the UK, affecting nearly one-in-six (17 per cent) adults. It is an unpleasant smell from the mouth that can be caused by various factors, such as poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, or certain foods and drinks.
Nigel said, "Living with bad breath can be extremely difficult often unnoticed by the individual but affecting their social interactions. Regular and thorough brushing and flossing, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet are the keys to managing bad breath and reclaiming fresh breath. If you're experiencing persistent bad breath, it's important to seek professional dental advice as it could be a sign of a more serious oral health issue."
Maintaining good oral health is important, not just for a radiant smile but for overall wellbeing. Oral health is a window to your general health, with gum disease sometimes associated with heart disease, diabetes, and other inflammatory conditions. Regular dental care can prevent these problems, enhance self-esteem, and improve quality of life.
Miranda said, "Oral health is a commitment that pays off in the long run. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste keeps your teeth and gums healthy. Be mindful of your sugar intake, both in terms of quantity and frequency. Regular visits to your dental team are crucial for early detection and treatment of any potential issues. Remember, prevention is better than cure."