According to figures published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), dental health is still a major problem in the industrialised nations.

The figures comes from the 2003 report which says that between 60% and 90% of children and the vast majority of adults still have problems. In the USA, the figures reveal that dental caries is even more common than asthma – five times more common. This amounts to a staggering 151 million people suffering from tooth decay.

Caries begins by bacteria attacking the enamel and dentine of teeth. In time, a hole develops. If the tooth is left untreated then it can result in painful discomfort, and the only way to stop it is to remove the tooth.

However removal of teeth is now no longer a top priority for dentists. It is only carried out if it is absolutely necessary. Dentists try as far as possible to ensure prevention of decay rather than tooth extraction.

Teeth can now be repaired that have become discoloured or have developed porosities resulting from decay. What’s more this doesn’t even have to involve a local anaesthetic or drilling, the latter dreaded by most patients.

The major likely reason for poor oral health in the so called more advanced nations is poor diet and a general lackadaisical approach to oral hygiene. Children in particular in the UK and elsewhere eat too many sugary foods such as sweets and fizzy drinks that damage the enamel. Improper cleaning is also a probable cause.