Bad teeth affecting career progression

An online survey from AXA PPP healthcare suggests that 44% of senior decision-makers in SMEs believe that unpleasant teeth or bad breath would adversely affect their decision to promote an employee, regardless of their ability.

The figures show that roughly half (48%) of senior decision makers agree that poor dental health or hygiene would have a negative effect on their choice to do business with someone.

Dr John Burke, medical advisor from AXA PPP, says: ‘These findings should be a wakeup call to the 24 million people in the UK who work for SMEs. The suggestion that people are suffering career or business setbacks because of bad teeth or poor oral health is alarming – especially when good oral hygiene and regular check-ups can so readily help to secure good dental health and achieve a winning smile.’

Furthermore, the survey also drastically revealed that 30% of SME senior ruling bodies never floss, with 27% admitting they haven’t seen a dentist in the past year. Almost a third (31%) either rarely (18%) or never (13%) check their teeth before an important business meeting. Men are twice as more likely to remain careless with their oral health than women.

The numbers clearly indicate that when it comes to taking care of their own teeth, SME bosses not ones to judge.

Dr John Burke noted: ‘Employers who help their employees look after their dental health can gain in a number of ways – with fewer workers being distracted by toothache or having to take time off for urgent trips to the dentist. And a readiness to smile can also make a big difference in creating a positive workplace atmosphere. Customers appreciate it too.’

Visit the AXA PPP healthcare website on www.axappphealthcare.co.uk for more information.

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 613 SME decision makers. Fieldwork was undertaken between 28 – 31 May 2013. The survey was carried out online.

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