Most dentists are in a position to advise their patients on lifestyle changes.
Dentists can give lifestyle advice when seeing patients for regular check-ups.
This is the assertion made by Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, who noted such meetings provide "an ideal opportunity for intervention around things that have got a direct effect on the mouth".
He added produce such as sugary foods and drinks should not be consumed too often, while tobacco and alcohol use have to be regulated.
Dr Carter observed the argument can be made that dentists are in a "prime position to give basic advice and perhaps a brief intervention on tobacco cessation".
The expert observed people only go to the doctors when they are ill, whereas individuals regularly visit the dentist.
His comments come after Professor Damien Walmsley, scientific adviser to the British Dental Association, stated older patients have to pay particular attention to their oral health to make sure it is up to standard.