Most Chinese children suffer from tooth diseases, according to a recent national survey conducted by a group of local dental experts.

In China, 76.55 percent of the five-year-olds have had decayed teeth, at an average of four each, the survey shows.

The incidence of dental problems among teenagers is also serious, with 85 percent of middle school students suffering from periodontal difficulties.

The survey found that one-third of all Chinese still do not have the habit of regularly brushing their teeth.

The increase in the consumption of sugar and the decline in coarse food grain intake in the Chinese diet has caused the prevalence of dental problems, according to the experts, who fear that this trend may continue if effective measures are not taken. To tackle the problem, the Ministry of Public Health plans a series of campaigns urging people to take better care of their teeth.
　　(From People's Daily)