Bristol residents most likely to have teeth extracted in the South West
New figures have suggested that Bristol residents are more likely to have teeth extracted than residents of any other towns and cities in the South West.
New research from mydentist shows that the extraction rate in Bristol is the highest in the region. Rates in Bristol are 12.5 per 100 patients compared to an average of 10.67 in the South West and 11.4 in the UK.
Previously, reports have suggested that low levels of fluoride in the city’s water supplies could be linked to poor standards of oral health. However, mydentist’s clinical director, Steve Williams, believes that the high rates are more likely to be caused by infrequent dental checks.
According to mydentist dentists, there has been a significant increase in the number of patients who are seeing a dentist for the first time in years, despite advice from dental experts to have check-ups every 6-12 months.
The advice from representatives at mydentist is to keep up to date with routine check-ups. If you can’t find a dentist, contact your local NHS trust or visit the NHS Choices website. It’s also advisable to brush twice-daily using fluoride toothpaste, and to moderate your intake of sugary foods and drinks. Products like sweets and fizzy drinks contribute to acid erosion of the tooth enamel, which increases the risk of decay and gum disease. Frequent check-ups can reduce the risk of dental disease by 60 percent.
Dental organisations have recently criticised the government for failing to address issues linked to access to NHS dental care, however, NHS England claims that access to NHS services is improving.
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