ANDOVER, England, May 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Simplyhealth's Annual Dental Survey 2011 shows that Brits could be risking their dental health with over a quarter viewing visits to the dentist as a 'luxury'.
The survey of 10,000 UK adults found that men are the worst offenders with over a third considering dentist appointments not essential. 19% also believe they can take care of their teeth themselves.
James Glover from Simplyhealth says: "It's surprising that so many people see visiting the dentist as a luxury. We're not talking about a holiday, or a new car, but protecting your dental health, which is an everyday health need. Simplyhealth offers an affordable Simply Dental Plan to help spread the cost of visiting the dentist. This covers check-ups, treatment and emergencies."
Younger people place less importance on their dental health, with almost a third (31%) of 18-24 year olds saying visiting the dentist is a luxury. In contrast 23% of over 55s see the dentist as a luxury, but 71% have seen the dentist in the last year.
Practicing dentist and Simplyhealth's dental advisor, Michael Thomas, says: "It's really important that individuals take the time to brush their teeth twice a day and regularly visit their dentist. This isn't just important for the health of their teeth, but also for other health issues. For example, research[1] suggests that poor oral health is associated with a greater risk of a stroke and heart disease."
Simplyhealth is currently running an exclusive 'two months free' offer* to all new customers who purchase a Simply Dental Plan online via http://www.simplyhealth.co.uk. For more information visit the website or call 0800-072-6715.
*The two months free offer for new customers purchasing a Simply Dental Plan online ends 30 June 2011.
Notes to Editor:
- The Simplyhealth Annual Dental Survey 2011 as well as interviews with Michael Thomas, case studies and a spokesperson from Simplyhealth are available upon request
- The research was carried out online by One Poll between 8 March 2011 - 14 March 2011. All research adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines
About Simplyhealth:
- We became Simplyhealth in 2009 after bringing together HSA, BCWA, LHF, HealthSure and Totally Active
- Simplyhealth is a trading name of Simplyhealth Access, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
- We have 1.2 million customers providing cover for 2 million lives
- We're committed to making a positive impact on our communities. Last year, we donated GBP1.6 million to health related charities
[1] http://www.dentalhealth.org/news/details/457
Lynsey Thorp, Public Relations Executive +44(0)844-579-2266
Caroline Lakeman, Public Relations Manager +44(0)844-579-2274/+44(0 )7795-294447 Or pr@simplyhealth.co.uk
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