New national figures show that tooth decay in adults has risen sharply in England and is now similar to the levels last seen in the late 1990s.

The Adult Oral Health Survey 2023 found that four-in-ten adults have clear signs of decay (41%).

This has risen from 28% in 2009. When early enamel decay is included, almost two-in-three adults (64%) had signs of decay somewhere in their mouth.

This is the first full picture of adult oral health in England for more than ten years.

Oral Health Foundation response

The Oral Health Foundation has said the findings show adult oral health is moving in the wrong direction and that without urgent action things will continue to get worse.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation, says: “These figures are a stark warning that England is heading backwards on oral health. To see levels of decay returning to those last recorded in the late 1990s is simply unacceptable and entirely preventable. We urgently need national action to make healthier choices easier, improve access to dental care, and address the widening inequalities that are leaving millions behind. Unless we act now, we risk a generation living with worse oral health than their parents and grandparents.”

Unless we act now, we risk a generation living with worse oral health than their parents and grandparents.

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About the survey

The Adult Oral Health Survey takes place around every ten years. It is carried out on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care. The 2023 survey was led by the National Centre for Social Research, with dental experts from several universities.

Read the latest Adult Oral Health Survey.