Call for care during Dental Health Week

MAKE no mistake – poor dental hygiene is at the root of illness, and research shows links to serious and fatal medical conditions.

When it was thought that my father, Ginger, was suffering from ulcers they removed all his teeth – much to mother’s horror. Fifty-years later Beria was still saying, “And he had the most beautiful teeth!”

A Dental Health Week CareDent survey shows that a quarter of Australians only brush once daily; less than one-in-four floss daily; and more than a quarter never use mouthwash.  Almost one-in-two Australians are undergoing cosmetic dental procedures; consequently, dentists are urging everyone to prioritise conventional oral health over cosmetics.

Dental Surgeon, Dr Alistair Graham, said, “There is a real concern that the insta-world is cultivating a focus on cosmetic appearance rather than oral health basics like brushing twice-daily, as well as regularly flossing and using mouthwash. Poor dental care not only affects the teeth and gums, which can lead to an increase in cavities and gum disease, but research shows links to heart disease, cancer and diabetes.”

I would rather go hungry than neglect my teeth – and my tongue; however, the nation is divided on that practice. One in five never brush their tongue, and just as many do it twice daily.

“Clearing the bacteria on our tongues is important for the overall health and hygiene of our teeth and gums, and for preventing bad breath, and should be cleaned daily,” says Dr Graham.

A beautiful smile is important, but a waste if you are neglecting your dental hygiene.