A tsunami of gum disease in the UK

A British dentist has come out saying that his country is facing a “tsunami” of gum disease due to the increase in sugar consumption. He says tooth decay is now the most likely cause of a hospital stay for children under 10.

In a recent article, Dr Tony Kilcoyne was quoted as saying:

“We are supposed to be a First World country but the problem has got so bad we now have a charity, Dentaid, which usually provides treatment in developing countries, opening an emergency service for poor and vulnerable people. Sugar is a cheap filler and it’s addictive so many children are now getting eight to 10 sugar attacks a day.”

Here are some other points from the article:

• His warning came as figures showed 62,000 kids were treated on wards for tooth problems last year.
• The soaring rate will pile more pressure on David Cameron to introduce a sugar tax.
• Experts warned the NHS is “unfit for purpose” after it emerged there was a 20% rise in children being treated in hospital.
• The PM is currently considering plans for a 20% sugar tax.
• TV chef Jamie Oliver, 40, has led calls for the controversial levy.

Follow the link to read the full article.