Avoid tooth decay with regular dental check-ups
With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, Bupa’s dental practices are open again and are encouraging patients to book in and see their dentist for a check-up.
Dental check-ups are an essential part of taking care of your teeth and help avoid major procedures in the future. During March and April, dental practices across Australia were closed, in line with government guidelines. Dentists were only performing emergency dental procedures. These restrictions have now eased, and dentistry is back to normal – with specific COVID-19 infection control measures in place.
Dr Kavita Lobo, Clinical Director of Bupa Dental says it’s important that patients return to see their dentist and have their teeth and gums examined, as regular dental check-ups, scale and cleans, and procedures such as fillings are essential to avoiding more serious dental work in the future.
Highlighting the state of oral healthcare across Australia, the 2020 Adult Oral Health Tracker undertaken by the Australian Dental Association, found that:
- 32.1% of adults have untreated tooth decay;
- 28.8% of adults have periodontal pockets, which is connected to gum disease; and
- Only 53% of adults brush their teeth twice a day.
“When left untreated, tooth decay and gum disease can destroy the tissues in the mouth, which can lead to lasting physical and psychological disability,” Dr Lobo said.“Many of the conditions that affect the oral cavity are largely preventable. These conditions can have a significant impact on oral health and quality of life, as these conditions can cause pain, lead to days off from work and even result in hospitalisation.
“Many Australians had to postpone their dental appointments during COVID-19 restrictions. With dental practices open again, we strongly encourage people to book in to see their dentist and maintain good oral health care,” Dr Lobo said.
The most important ways to look after your teeth and mouth include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day, with toothpaste than contains fluoride;
- A healthy diet of fresh food and drinking water;
- Avoiding sugary drinks;
- Regular dental check-ups to help remove plaque, undertake a proper clean, and to monitor your teeth and mouth for adverse changes; and
- Quit smoking.
Media reference number: 20/073
