Dubai: Bad breath, sensitivity and bleeding gums are the top dental issues among UAE residents, according to a dental survey of 500 respondents aged 18–35. The survey also revealed that cost is the biggest barrier to regular dental visits for 50 per cent of respondents.

Carried out by Oral-B and Crest on the general state of oral health across the UAE, the survey stated that around two-thirds of respondents prefer to ask family and friends for dental advice rather than visit a dentist. The survey results will be used for ‘Healthy Mouth, Healthy Life’, a campaign to provide dental education and free dental check-ups starting 2013. The 2011-12 campaign conducted more than 200,000 free check-ups.