As the recession rumbles on, cash-strapped Brits are trying to save money all over the place; and according to a new survey that means not visiting the dentist to get regular check-ups. When asked about their reasons for avoiding dental visits, 75% of respondents said the cost was too much for them as they struggled during tough economic times.
The Adult Dental Survey – which is carried out every ten years – revealed that around a quarter of adults admitted that the type of dental treatment they went for was influenced by price, whilst nearly one in five said they would put off making an appointment due to finances. However, there are many conditions that can be exacerbated by poor dental health – such as heart disease, diabetes, and strokes – and experts are hoping consumers will invest a little bit more in their teeth, even when money is tight.
Dr Nigel Carter OBE, Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said that dental care was something that Britons should not neglect, even if it is expensive sometimes; ‘While budgets are feeling the squeeze, there is a very good reason looking after your oral health should not be cut-back. You may think you’re saving yourself some pennies in the short-term, but the cost of neglecting your oral health is even higher.’ He went on to say that ‘The financial savings of prevention – to your mouth and to your wallet – are much higher than if you put off oral health treatment until it’s too late.’