A recent dental study has found out that Britons have recorded more oral problems today than during the Roman era.
In the study, researchers examined 303 skulls dating from 200 to 400 AD which are currently sheltered by the Natural History Museum. Only 5 percent of the 303 skulls have been found to exhibit signs of moderate to severe periodontitis.
This percentage is relatively low compared to the figure yield after examining dental records of modern day Brits which is at 15 to 20 percent.
The researchers of the study were quite shocked with their findings especially that during the Roman era, toothbrushes, toothpastes and even dental facilities were never at the disposal of the people during those times.
With this, we can concur that poor oral hygiene is but a factor in the development of oral health issues.
Lifestyle and diet, were then found to be the primary factors that affect dental health. Even when today's common dental hygiene necessities were not available to people in the 200 to 400 AD, they did not have sugar-packed foods, smoking is not as common then compared to today and the diseases such as diabetes that may directly or indirectly cause oral health issues were not as prevalent during those times as they are today.
Aside from periodontitis, the examined skulls also showed tooth decay and wear. These are, however, attributed by the researchers to the common diet during the period which commonly includes coarse grains and cereals.
With the findings laid out on the said study, dentists urge modern day folks to cut back on habits that cause the deterioration of one's oral health. Adults are not the only ones who should observe oral health practices. Kids need the same.
Dentists have urged parents to keep tabs on their little ones' oral health. This is most especially that we are in that time of the year when kids go about stuffing jack-o-lanterns with candies and sweets.
