Young people risking oral health

According to research undertaken by the NHS Information Centre, nearly one in two (45 per cent) 11 to 15 year olds consumed alcohol, while more than one in four (27 per cent) admitted to smoking, a figure higher than the number of adults who smoke (21 per cent). Over half (55 per cent) of respondents deemed it acceptable to try alcohol. Also, over a third (35 per cent) said the same thing about smoking.

Although the publication of these figures represent an improvement over the last 10 years, the British Dental Health Foundation, believes they still show cause for concern. Chief executive of the foundation, Nigel Carter, issued a stark warning to parents and children putting their oral health at risk, saying ‘If you smoke, you are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, the most common cause of tooth loss in adults. Smoking and alcohol are also the two predominant causes of mouth cancer, and when combined they increase the risk of getting the disease by up to 30 times. Drinking alcohol, particularly to excess, can increase the risk of mouth cancer by four times. The UK has a problem with binge drinking, and from an oral health point of view, more must be done to educate this age range on the dangers that poses.’