A survey reveals that nearly a quarter are too embarrassed about their teeth to smile in photos.

Cheer up! It's national smile month, but why are Brits so Glum?

18th May to 17th June is National Smile Month, but despite this, Brits are looking glum. Nearly a quarter are too embarrassed about their teeth to smile in photos, a survey has found.

What's more more than two thirds (!) admitted that they hadn't cleaned their teeth for at least a day.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, commented: "Clearly people don’t realise how much difference a good oral healthcare routine can make. There is a growing body of evidence that links gum disease to more serious general health conditions such as heart disease, heart attacks, strokes and diabetes."

Other findings include:
  • Nearly three quarters of respondents had found blood in the sink after brushing at some point, which can be an early warning sign of gum problems
  • But 47% of lethargic Brits would prefer to ignore the warning signs and do nothing about it
  • 75% said they noticed someone’s teeth when they were talking to them
  • The same amount would be turned off someone if they had bad teeth
  • 37% of Brits would prefer to have expensive teeth whitening treatments. In comparison, just 8% would opt to have necessary remedial work done, such as removing pockets of plaque removed to help protect against gum disease

In addition, vain Brits are also forking out to look good on the outside and are prepared to spend more than double the amount on grooming products – an average of £9.80 a month – than on toothpastes or mouthwashes to keep their pearly whites and gums in good condition. This is not such good news when it comes to attracting the opposite sex – as one in five said the biggest turnoff is bad teeth.

The survey was commissioned by Corsodyl to launch their new Corsodyl Daily Defence mouthwash the first and only daily fluoride mouthwash to contain chlorhexidine, an antibacterial ingredient used by dentists.

Corsodyl Daily Defence is available in pharmacies, all major supermarkets and dental surgeries, priced at £4.49.


This content was created on Thu 5 June 2008

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