SNP must respond to depressing teeth figures - Finnie

12.01.00am GMT Wed 10th Mar 2010

Liberal Democrat Health spokesperson Ross Finnie MSP has revealed that almost a quarter of men and over a third of women over 55 are estimated to have no natural teeth.

Figures released in an answer to a Parliamentary Question also showed that around 3% of 35-54 year olds have no natural teeth.

The previous Executive set a target in 2005 for 90% of adults to possess some natural teeth by 2010.

Commenting, Mr Finnie said:

"This is a depressing indictment of Scotland's dental health.

"Almost a quarter of men over 55 and over a third of women over 55 don't have any of their own teeth.

"Unless the Scottish Government takes drastic action, they won't meet the target set by the previous Government.

"Improving Scotland's diet is essential. Our sweet tooth is not only taking its toll on our waistlines, it's hitting our teeth too. Regular dental checks are also very important. We know that in some parts of the country, people still simply can't get an NHS dentist.

"The Scottish Government needs to sort this out."