LONDON : The Oral Health Foundation, a leading national charity organization of United Kingdom (UK), is throwing its support behind a groundbreaking new report that advocates for a range of preventative policies to enhance the oral health of the nation. The report, commissioned by the Wrigley Oral Healthcare Programme and conducted by Frontier Economics, identifies three urgent interventions that can effectively prevent and reduce instances of tooth decay.
The report, titled "Economic Value of Good Oral Health," was launched to coincide with National Smile Month. It highlights the positive impact of water fluoridation programs, sugar-free chewing gum, and supervised tooth brushing, which collectively could lead to 1.43 million fewer tooth extractions, 1.6 million fewer fillings, and 265,000 fewer root canal treatments annually within the NHS. The associated savings to NHS dental services could exceed £51 million.
Recognizing the challenges faced by individuals in accessing NHS dentistry and the financial burden of oral health treatments, the Oral Health Foundation urges the immediate implementation of preventive interventions. Dr. Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, emphasizes the need to shift from a treatment-oriented approach to oral health problems to a preventive mindset. He states, "Oral health diseases are almost entirely preventable with the correct daily care and supportive policies."
Dr. Ben Atkins, a dentist and trustee of the Oral Health Foundation, underscores the potential of water fluoridation programs, sugar-free chewing gum, and supervised tooth brushing to alleviate the prevalence and severity of oral diseases. He calls upon politicians and policymakers to initiate radical changes in managing oral healthcare in the UK, citing the positive impact that a few new interventions can make in reducing oral disease, relieving pressure on the NHS workforce, and freeing the NHS dental budget from years of stagnation.
The Oral Health Foundation is committed to promoting oral health and supporting initiatives that enhance the well-being of individuals nationwide. By endorsing this landmark report, the Foundation aims to catalyze transformative changes that will lead to improved oral health outcomes for all.