Causes of oral ill health
Risk factors for oral and dental ill health include poor diet and hygiene, trauma, stress, smoking, alcohol use, and use of illegal substances. These are also common risk factors for other chronic diseases.
"Oral ill health, whether it is due to dental caries (decay), tooth erosion, or gum disease, imposes a significant burden not only on the individual but also on the economy."
- Nunn J (2006). The burden of oral ill health for children. Arch Dis Child 2006;91:251-253. doi: 10.1136/adc.2005.077016