Employees are pushing through dental pain rather than taking time off, with many fearing judgement from managers and colleagues. New research suggests that oral health remains a missing piece in workplace wellbeing, with some staff choosing to delay treatment even when in discomfort.
According to a study of 3,000 UK workers commissioned by Bupa Dental Insurance, 21 percent of employees believe dental issues are viewed as less valid than physical or mental health when calling in sick.
Nearly a third (29 percent) said they had experienced a negative attitude from an employer when seeking time off for dental care, and 14 percent felt complaining about dental pain would be seen as a sign of weakness.
Oral health still treated as an afterthought
Half of employees said they prioritise physical health over oral health when deciding whether to take sick leave, while 47 percent place mental health needs above dental problems. Although oral health is widely recognised as essential to overall wellbeing, the research suggests it is still treated as a lesser concern in many workplaces.
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The survey, conducted by polling firm Censuswide, found that 17 percent of workers recognised a distinct “push through it” culture surrounding dental pain at work. Nearly one in four employees (24 percent) said they feel self-conscious about their teeth, and 13 percent said they believe others judge them based on the appearance of their teeth.
Some respondents admitted to skipping or delaying treatment due to workplace pressures or anxiety. Among the sample, 26 percent reported dental fear and 20 percent said their anxiety was so severe that they often avoided visits to the dentist altogether.
Employers’ attitudes influence problem
Ann Stewart, director of Bupa Dental Insurance, said workplace culture continued to shape how employees responded to dental problems. She argued that employers have an important role to play in removing barriers to oral care.
“Oral health is still the missing piece in workplace wellbeing,” she said. “Our research shows that employees are weighing their health against job security and perception, often delaying care until small issues become costly problems that affect overall health and productivity.”
Stewart added that organisations should go beyond simply offering dental cover. “This means more than offering insurance,” she said. “It’s about creating a culture where dental health is normalised, removing barriers like cost and time and actively educating employees on the proven link between oral health and overall wellbeing.”
Health risks reach beyond the mouth
Medical evidence has established links between oral health and a range of serious conditions. Gum disease, for example, has been associated with a 36 percent higher risk of heart attack and an 86 percent increased risk of stroke. Some studies have also connected poor oral hygiene with cognitive decline and dementia.
The NHS has warned that untreated dental infections and inflammation can contribute to chronic conditions, particularly among older adults. Despite this, dental care is often excluded from employer wellbeing programmes or discussed only in the context of cosmetic treatment.
Workplace wellbeing advisers have said employers should view oral health in the same light as other long-term prevention strategies, such as mental health support or annual health checks.
Supporting a culture of prevention
Experts in workplace health have advised that normalising routine dental care is key to reducing presenteeism and longer-term costs. Strategies include allowing flexible scheduling for appointments, providing clear information about benefits and entitlements and including dental wellbeing in wider health awareness campaigns.
The British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy has also highlighted the importance of early intervention and preventive care. In employer guidance, it recommends that businesses actively encourage staff to attend check-ups and model positive behaviour through internal communication and senior role-modelling.
Stewart said the workplace could be a valuable setting for tackling long-standing taboos around dental anxiety and stigma. “By prioritising dental care alongside physical and mental health, businesses can protect their people, reduce absenteeism and strengthen long-term productivity,” she said.
Oral health in the spotlight
Although dental anxiety and poor oral health are rarely discussed in the workplace, the findings suggest they may have more of an impact on wellbeing and productivity than many employers realise. As with mental health a decade ago, observers argue that greater openness and clearer support could transform the way dental care is treated at work.
The research shows that when employees feel judged or unsupported, they are less likely to seek help early. For employers, this can mean more prolonged absences, preventable health deterioration and avoidable costs. As more businesses focus on whole-person health, oral care may be the next frontier in closing the wellbeing gap.
