Under-18s suffer worsening gum disease

Oral health experts are warning under-18s to tackle gingivitis early after a new government study revealed that at least half are facing gum disease or tooth decay.

Gum disease and tooth decay among UK children and teenagers have now worsened to levels last seen in 1983, according to the Department of Health.

Poor diet, excessive snacking between meals and a lack of proper oral hygiene are to blame, says the Department of Health report.

The study shows that six out of 10 under-18s have either had gum disease or tooth decay or are at risk from getting them.

It follows the launch of a traffic light scheme in which patients’ oral health is rated green, amber or red. The new system is being piloted by 95 dental surgeries in England.

Early results show that 28% of adults and 13 per cent of under-18s had a red rating – confirming that they are currently suffering from either gum disease and/or tooth decay.

At least half all adults and one-third of children had an amber rating, showing that they are at serious risk of developing gingivitis and/or tooth decay.

‘These figures make grim reading – especially when you know the problem is easily avoidable simply by eating more sensibly and taking better care of your teeth and gums,’ said a spokesperson for Eludril and Elgydium.

Dentists all over the world recommend chlorhexidine as the best treatment for gum disease. It has a proven track record dating back over several decades.

Chlorhexidine is one of the active ingredients in Eludril gingivitis mouthwash and Elgydium toothpaste.

For more information about Eludril and Elgydium, contact Chloe Rogers at Ceuta Healthcare on +44 (0)844 243 6661, [email protected], www.gumproblems.co.uk

 

 

 

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