Bupa’s latest research reveals a significant knowledge gap in the UK regarding the relationship between dental health and overall physical and mental wellbeing.
The study found that two in three (65%) individuals aged 18-34 are more informed about their mental health than their dental health, with 19% unaware of any connection between oral health and mental wellbeing. Only 13% of respondents felt they had a better understanding of their dental health compared to their mental health.
The findings are part of a broader investigation into British awareness of the links between dental health and overall health. Alarmingly, 85% of participants did not believe that mental health issues could affect the health of their teeth, tongue, or gums. Moreover, only 12% recognized a connection between oral health and panic attacks, and just 7% understood its links to bipolar disorder.
Public awareness of the association between oral health and mouth cancer is also low, with only 53% acknowledging the connection. Awareness is even lower for conditions like diabetes (25%) and heart disease (14%).
Neil Sikka, director of dentistry at Bupa Dental Care, emphasized the importance of awareness: “Typically, people visit the dentist when they’re in pain or for a routine check-up. However, we can detect much more, and many individuals are unaware of this.”
Sikka noted that the research indicates a pressing need to educate the public about the critical role dental health plays in overall health. “As dental professionals, we often serve as the first line of defense in identifying oral health conditions that may signal early signs of systemic issues such as diabetes or heart disease.”
To address this knowledge gap, Bupa has launched “The Great Unexplored” campaign, aimed at encouraging individuals and families to prioritize their oral health, recognize warning signs, and enhance their understanding of oral care.
The research also revealed that when people learned about the direct impact of dental hygiene on overall health, 78% reported a shift in their attitudes. Additionally, 61% committed to improving their oral hygiene practices in the future.
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents believe more efforts are needed to highlight the impact of oral hygiene on overall wellbeing, while 67% feel that the significance of oral health is underrepresented in UK media. Furthermore, 63% suggested that schools could play a key role in teaching better habits to children from a young age.
Sikka concluded, “It’s easy to overlook dental health as purely cosmetic, but our entire body is interconnected. At Bupa, we’re uniquely positioned to provide patients with access to both dental and broader health care, ensuring peace of mind when they need it most.”
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