World Oral Health Day Exposes Oral Health Myths

(SOURCE: Australian Dental Association)

Today on World Oral Health Day, FDI World Dental Federation and the Australian Dental Association (ADA) are recognising how integral oral health is to our over wellbeing by busting the myths around what people around the world believe to be good oral health practices, in the process encouraging Australia to become better informed and take action. 

President of the ADA, Dr Hugo Sachs, stated “This World Oral Health Day, it is vital Australians take ownership of their oral health and separate truth from myth. Understanding good oral health practices and adopting them early in life, will help to maintain optimal oral health into old age and ensure you live a long life free from physical pain and often emotional suffering caused by oral disease.”

The results from a survey carried out in 12 countries by YouGov on behalf of FDI, exposed a significant gap between what Australians believe to be good oral health practices, versus what they actually do. Just over half (51%) of people surveyed mistakenly think it is important to brush your teeth straight after every main meal. FDI recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth to avoid weakening tooth enamel.

Two out of three (66%) reported they rinsed their mouth out with water after brushing, with a similar amount (69%) tending to do this. It is actually recommended not to rinse with water straight after brushing to allow maximum exposure to fluoride, which will optimize the preventative effects. 

Over a third (35%) surveyed felt that drinking fruit juice rather than fizzy drinks was important for good oral health. Fruit juice however, can also be high in sugar which can cause tooth decay. FDI recommends keeping consumption of sugary drinks to a minimum as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

“These survey results highlight an alarming discrepancy between knowledge and actual good oral health practices,” said Dr Patrick Hescot, FDI President. “We want everyone to take control of their oral health this World Oral Health Day and understand that by adopting good oral hygiene habits, avoiding risk factors and having a regular dental check-up, they can help protect their mouths. A healthy mouth allows us to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow and convey a range of emotions with confidence and without pain, discomfort and disease. Good oral health matters and translates to a better quality of life.”

Other key findings on oral health practices include: 

•    81 percent of people surveyed agreed that visiting a dentist once per year is good oral health practice, but only half (50%) actually tend to do it
•    Only 42 percent of respondents identified drinking alcohol in moderation as important for good oral health

5 Health Issues Your Dentist Can Spot!

How your dental wellbeing speaks about a lot more than just your teeth. 

1.     Heart Problems

Did you know that gum disease can cause bacteria to travel to your heart, causing clotting in your arteries and interfering with blood flow, which may contribute to coronary artery disease? Researchers are still investigating the links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease, but by treating gum inflammation you could lower your risk of stroke or heart attack.

2.     Osteoporosis

Did you know that a receding gum line and loosening teeth may indicate weakness in the bones that support your teeth? While the strength of your bones is not linked to the strength of your teeth, the strength of the supporting structures around your teeth can say a lot about the health of your bones. This weakness may be an early warning sign of osteoporosis.

3.     Oral Cancer

Did you know that one of the first signs of oral cancer is often small red or white spots/sores on the gums, lips, tongue or cheek lining? Early detection can be critical, and your dentist can recommend relevant tests and biopsies for any suspicious tissues.

4.     Stress

Did you know that many people grind their teeth while sleeping when suffering from stress? This grinding can lead to chipped teeth, worn teeth, jaw pain and ultimately bone loss. Your dentist may note an increase in wear on your teeth and recommend stress management solutions or that you wear a splint while sleeping.

5.     Mental Health issues

Did you know that researchers speculate a link between gum disease bacteria and brain function? A recent report in the Journal of American Geriatric Society found that people who brushed their teeth less than once a day were 65 percent more likely to develop dementia than those who brushed daily.

Regular appointments could help your dentist spot warning signs for potential health issues, allowing you to take necessary steps to prevent or treat them. Make sure you book your routine dental check ups and cleans to keep your oral health and your general health in tip top condition.

Sports Drinks: Read the Label!

Did you know there is more sugar in a bottle of Gatorade than in three Krispy Kreme Donuts?

Sports drinks have become increasingly popular in Australia but they may not be all they claim to be - having some detrimental health effects. Manufacturers of sports drinks spend a lot of money on marketing the 'health benefits' of these drinks: 'supporting hydration' and providing electrolytes when we need them most. However, it is important to read the labels and remember that not all sports drinks are beneficial to our bodies, less our teeth. A lot of them are extremely acidic and have a high content of sugar. Many sport enhancing supplements include ingredients such as citric acid to help to create a flavour and ingredients such as ‘sodium benzoate’ as a preservative so the products have a longer shelf-life. The best thing to do is to read the labels, and ensure that the contents are what the labels claim the drink to be. Do not over-consume sports drinks either; like anything -they are best consumed in moderation. And don't forget: the best (and cheapest) drink to enhance your performance at the gym is plain water. 

Buying sport supplements: Products that contain ingredients like citric acid (food numbers 330 or 331) or ascorbic acid (food number 300) are acidic, and preservatives that end in the letters ‘ate’ like sorbate can also be assumed to be acidic. 

Don’t miss out on your children’s free dental benefits!

NEWS ABOUT THE CHILD DENTAL BENEFIT SCHEME (CDBS). WHAT IS REALLY HAPPENING?

Maintaining and protecting the health of children’s teeth is one of the top priorities for any parent, so any help with managing the cost associated with the kid’s dental visits are always very welcomed!

For families who are eligible for this scheme, the most recent news from the Federal Government is good news.

The Child Dental Benefits Scheme provides government funded access to benefits for a wide range of dental services to around 3 million children aged between 2 and 17 years for treatment up to $1000. This includes inclusive benefits for oral examinations, xrays, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatment, fissure sealing, fillings, root canal and extractions. The CDBS is means tested, requiring a receipt of Family Tax Benefit Part A or a relevant Australian Government payment.

Despite proposals to reduce the scheme amount, Health Minister Greg Hunt has reinstated the cap at $1000. These dental benefits should be used as soon as possible in order to be fully utilized.

If you have never accessed CDBS before, you may wish to contact Dental4U’s friendly receptionists to discuss the scheme and your family’s eligibility. If you are familiar with the scheme, now is the time to check in with us to make the most of your child’s balance!

At Dental4U we are passionate about creating positive dental experiences for your children, and we pride ourselves on showing particular patients and care. In cases where children need treatments, modern techniques and strategies ensure your kids have a gentle and comfortable experience.