The impact of oral disease on people’s everyday lives is subtle and pervasive, influencing eating, sleep, work and social roles. Oral diseases are among the most prevalent diseases in the Australian community. Almost 60 % of 14-year-olds in Australia have had decay in their permanent teeth. More than one in five Australian adults over the age of 65 have lost all their natural teeth, leaving them vulnerable to further health problems. More then 60,000 Australians a year are hospitalised for preventable oral health conditions. Oral diseases include dental decay (caries), periodontal disease (disease of the gum tissue) and oral cancer. The cost to the Australian economy of oral diseases is $8.4billion a year. A growing body of evidence links oral disease to other health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and some cancers. Children face the additional challenge of poor oral health and/or poor oral health habits having far reaching effects into their adulthood. Dental conditions in childhood can restrict children’s participation in schooling and education through days lost to illness. Impaired physical appearance due to dental disease can further limit children’s ability to socialise with confidence and develop social norms and relationships.
How can I prevent bad oral health?
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste. Preferably, brush after each meal and especially before going to bed. Clean between your teeth daily with
dental floss or interdental cleaners such as Piksters, the Interdental Brush. Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacks. Avoid carbohydrates such as lollies, biscuits and chips, which can remain on the tooth surface. If sticky foods are eaten, brush your teeth soon afterwards. Ask us about dental sealants, a protective resin coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay. Drink fluoridated water. At least a litre of fluoridated water each day is recommended to protect children from tooth decay.
Visit Sam or Rachel regularly for professional Oral examinations and Cleans