The ultimate guide to perfect teeth: Top experts use the latest science to reveal when to worry, what's normal and how to make them whiter and keep them clean By Jo Waters Published: 01:52 BST, 27 October 2024 | Updated: 01:56 BST, 27 October 2024 e-mail View comments 'Healthy' habits that you should be avoiding It's not just about having an attractive smile – though thanks to the effect of TV's Love Island and TikTok , private cosmetic dentistry is booming. But looking after your teeth is vitally important for your physical wellbeing, too. That's because poor dental health is increasingly being linked to serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even dementia.
The good news is that improved dental techniques, including scans to detect problems and the use of fluoride in tap water, mean that our teeth are generally getting better: fewer people now need dentures in old age, for instance. Yet an acute shortage of NHS dentists has led to 'dental deserts' in some areas: the British Dental Association estimates one in four adults – 13 million people – in England alone, have no access to a dentist. 'It's a mixed picture when it comes to the nation's dental health,' admits Nigel Carter, a dentist and chief executive of the charity Oral Health Foundation.
Poor dental health is increasingly being linked to serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even dementia But there is plenty you can do yourself to help prevent dental problems. From.