New data from a national survey has revealed just 1 in 3 Australian women visit the dentist regularly+, putting approximately 7 million women across Australia* at risk of serious dental disease.
Which is why during Australian Dental Health Week from 5-11 August, one of Australia’s leading dental service organisations, Pacific Smiles Dental, is encouraging people to prioritise their oral health, as it has a direct impact on their overall health and quality of life.
The survey also found that almost 20% of Australian women don’t know how menopause can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, with the decrease in oestrogen and associated medical treatments, a leading cause of dry mouth, bleeding and painful gums, and higher than normal dental plaque buildup.
This year’s Dental Health Week focuses on gum health and diseases that affect the gums, called periodontal diseases. Gum disease affects millions of people worldwide and stems from bacteria residing in dental plaque. Gum disease starts as red, swollen and inflamed gums (gingivitis) which, in susceptible patients, can eventually develop into periodontitis. 1 in 4 Australians have gum disease.
Dr Troy McGowan from Pacific Smiles Dental is a periodontist – a dental specialist who focuses on the treatment of periodontal (gum) disease; who believes regular check-ups is a key factor in avoiding losing your teeth because of advanced gum disease:
“Gum disease, or periodontitis, is the most common non-infectious disease in the world affecting approximately 743 million people globally. It is a disease that doesn’t usually cause pain or have any clear symptoms until patients have lost so much bone and gum that their teeth start wobbling in their mouths and in some cases, they even fall out! It is for these reasons that getting your dentist, therapist or hygienist to check your gums during your regular exam is so critical.
“Just like you need to take your car in for regular servicing, you should have a regular check in with your dentist to ensure any changes are picked up early enough, so you’re not at risk of having your teeth fall out because of advanced gum disease.
“There is plenty of research out there that shows the mere act of smiling can lower your stress, boost your immune system and even lead to longevity, so it makes sense to protect your teeth and gums so you can enjoy all the benefits that come from having a great smile,” Dr McGowan said.
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