Did you know that brushing your teeth and looking after your oral health can actually have an impact on your general health and wellbeing? While a gorgeous and bright smile is great, there’s lots more to keeping your teeth clean. It’s facts like these that many Australians aren’t aware of. Plus, with technology continuing to advance, as well as our understanding of oral and dental health, there are always new things to learn when it comes to looking after our teeth.
Knowing why it’s important to look after your teeth and overall mouth health can also help you keep up with regular cleaning and dental check-ups. This is because you’ll know exactly what you have to look forward to! So get ready to expand your mind with these great facts about oral and dental health services in Australia.
What Is Oral Health?
In Australia, oral health is defined as the overall condition of a person’s teeth and gums, as well as the health of the muscles and bones in their mouth. Generally speaking, oral health declines as we age, which is why it is important to implement good dental hygiene practices from an early age to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Why Is Oral Health Important?
Good oral health is fundamental to our general health. Without it, your general quality of life will likely deteriorate as your ability to eat, speak and socialise becomes compromised because of pain, discomfort, and embarrassment caused by various dental issues.
How Can A Dentist Help With Oral Health?
Between 2017–18, research showed that 44% of Australians had not seen a dentist in the past year. This is demonstrative of the fact that many people only see a dentist when there is an issue that has escalated to a point where they can’t handle it.
However, it is important to remember that dentists don’t just solve problems. They can prevent them from occurring in the first place. Regular visits to your dentist mean they can tackle issues like gum disease and tooth decay early before any real problems arise. As part of their dental health services, your dentist will also provide education on the steps you can take to maintain good oral hygiene.
How Often Should I Visit My Dentist?
Obviously, you should visit your dentist if you sense any pain or discomfort in your mouth, as well as in the event of any sort of dental emergency. Furthermore, your dentists can advise on more advanced dental services, including dentures and cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers.
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting a dentist every six months for a general checkup. While these bi-annual checkups are intended to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and nip any issues in the bud, some patients with more complex dental needs might be required to see a dentist more regularly.
Ready to get on top of your oral and dental health? Get in touch with Stanley Street Dental today!