The British Dental Association (BDA) has given a positive reception to the preliminary findings from the 2009 Adult Dental Health Survey (ADHS).

The report shows that adults are retaining at least some of their natural teeth later into life. Additionally, the report found that 86% of adults had 21 or more natural teeth. In 1978, this was the case for only 74% of adults.

'Fluoride toothpaste, greater awareness of the importance of a healthy diet and regular visits to the dentist have all undoubtedly contributed to the better dental health we see in adults today,' said Professor Damien Walmsley, the BDA's Scientific Adviser. '

The report also confirms the relationship between low socio-economic status and poorer oral health. Ninety-one percent of people from managerial and professional households have 21 or more natural teeth compared to 85% from intermediate occupation households and 79% from routine and manual occupation households.

'Addressing this [link] must be a priority for the UK's governments,' added Professor Walmsley.

The survey also found that 12% of adults who have ever been to the dentist have extreme dental anxiety about the situation.