Poor dental hygiene could possibly increase the risk of swine flu, according to new research by the British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF).
The National Dental Survey, carried out by the BDHF as part of the National Smile Month, found that bad dental habits are helping spread germs, with 40 per cent of Britons admitting to using their fingernails to pick their teeth .
The BDHF said picking teeth with fingernails risks spreading germs from dirty surfaces and hands straight to the mouth and on to the rest of the body.
In addition, the survey worryingly found that some people are using everyday items such as earrings, credit cards, paperclips, paper and even screwdrivers to pick their teeth .
BDHF chief executive Dr Nigel Carter said: "Hygiene warnings have been made clear ever since the swine flu outbreak, and it is worrying that these habits have been revealed as the numbers affected by flu steadily rises. Personal hygiene should be a top priority for all."
As well as highlighting the UK's failure to heed infection control advice, the findings also revealed the country’s lack of awareness of the importance of good oral health .
Despite various studies linking gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, strokes, premature births and low birth-weight babies, 66 per cent of respondents were unaware of possible links to heart disease, 80 per cent had no clue of the links to strokes or diabetes, and 94 per cent knew nothing of potential risks posed to pregnant women.
"The public could be put at risk by poor dental hygiene habits yet awareness of these risks is very low," Dr Carter added.
"Gum disease in particular has been linked to serious health issues. It affects most people at some point in their lives, so there is no excuse for ignoring good dental hygiene ."
"People should take care of their gums by brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth with floss or an interdental brush, cutting down on how often they take sugary snacks and drinks and visiting the dentist regularly."
Britons seeking expert dental advice can call the British Dental Health Foundation’s National Dental Helpline on 0845 063 1188.
