One third of people in the East Midlands admit they sometimes don't brush their teeth at night
It comes as a study reveals a critical link between oral health and overall well-being
Last updated 25th May 2023
More than 30 percent of people in the East Midlands admit they sometimes don't brush their teeth at night, as research shows links between poor oral hygiene and other health conditions.
It's been linked to heart disease, strokes and men's sexual health, among other issues.
Almost a fifth of people in our area say lack of NHS dental access is preventing them from taking care of their oral health.
NHS figures also show fewer than 4 in 10 adults in Rutland were able to see a dentist last year.
Dr Ben Atkins is a dentist and says the situation is dire: "I've been an NHS dentist for thirty years, and I've never experienced such a lack of access for patients to NHS services.
"It really does worry me, and it breaks my heart to see the health of our nation's teeth being affected by contractual issues."
He explains the link between poor oral health and health conditions: "There's evidence it affects your heart - this is because bacteria from your mouth can get into your bloodstream and inflame little arteries that supply oxygen to your heart."
Ben recommends taking preventative measures: "Take a step back and look at how much sugar you have in your diet...
"Brush your teeth twice a day and wait for about an hour after meals before brushing.
"This gives our saliva the chance to naturally neutralize acids, reducing potential damage caused by immediate brushing after consuming sugary or acidic food."