Children are still losing their teeth due to "rampant decay", according to a top Swindon dentist.

Patrick Holmes, spokesman for the British Dental Association for the North Wiltshire area, said tooth decay remained a major problem among youngsters.

A report from the World Health Organisation showed more than five billion people worldwide suffer from tooth decay, dispelling the idea that tooth decay is no longer a problem in the developed world.

Mr Holmes, who works at Seven Fields Dental Health Centre, in Penhill, said: "Decay is still a big problem.

"The increase in confectionery sales and fizzy drinks means the former decrease we saw in the decay rate has levelled out.

"Even in an area like Swindon, we still have to frequently extract teeth from young children who have rampant decay."

One treatment that can help avoid problems for children involves applying a fissure sealant, which is a protective anti-decay coating.

The back teeth are usually treated as these have deep grooves and pits that can catch food and make it harder to clean.

The sealant reduces the tooth's depth.

The news of the nation's dental health problems comes in the run-up to National Smile Week, Britain's biggest annual oral health event, which runs from May 16 to 22.

The British Dental Health Foundation, the UK's leading dental health charity, is hoping the report will persuade businesses and organisations to get involved in the week, and raise awareness of the importance of good oral health.

Chief executive of the Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, said: "This report highlights just how common a problem tooth decay is, not just in the third world, but in developed countries like Britain as well.

"Tooth decay can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, and can lead to tooth loss. Every year five million people visit the dentist with toothache, and this is often a result of tooth decay.

"Fortunately, there is an easy way to avoid it.

"Cleaning your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cutting down on the frequency of sugary foods and drinks and visiting your dentist at least once a year is usually enough to prevent tooth decay from becoming a problem."

During National Smile Week, the foundation will look at other oral health issues affecting adults. These include the problem of gum disease, which affects 19 out of 20 people in their lifetime, and the possibilities offered by cosmetic dentistry.

The theme of "the four ages of dental health" will explore problems faced by babies, children, teenagers and the elderly.

For a free National Smile Week pack containing an event organisers' guide and a resources catalogue contact the British Dental Health Foundation on 0870 770 4000.