General News
14 August, 2023
Prioritising oral health care during Dental Health Week
Biting into the importance of oral hygiene, Maryborough’s health service is reminding residents to care for their teeth as Dental Health Week comes to an end. Held last week from August 7 to 13, the Dental Services Team at Maryborough District...
Biting into the importance of oral hygiene, Maryborough’s health service is reminding residents to care for their teeth as Dental Health Week comes to an end.
Held last week from August 7 to 13, the Dental Services Team at Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) took on the annual oral health campaign — spear-headed by the Australian Dental Association, to raise awareness about the connection between mind, body and mouth.
While improving oral hygiene and health can reduce the impacts of disease on other parts of the body, most people are not aware that such a link exists.
“There is more work required to help the community become aware of the connection between oral health and overall physical well-being,” a MDHS spokesperson said.
“We have discussions with patients if they have chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and lung conditions or during pregnancy — however we would like to see more discussion and consideration to the mind, body, mouth connection in other parts of the medical field.
“It’s unfortunate that sometimes a link is only made for a patient when we have discussions regarding their medical history once they are in the dental chair.”
Mouths are a gateway to the body for food as well as bacteria, the spokesperson said, urging people, including parents with young kids, to stay on top of their own as well as their children’s dental needs.
“Generally, we see that oral health is overlooked for adults and children among some members of the community,” they said.
“Some parents may not be aware of their role in maintaining their child’s oral health — this includes helping their children brush their teeth at an early age, and making the right food and drink choices for them.
“Unfortunately, it’s the children who face the consequences of poor oral hygiene, which results in tooth decay, nerve damage, and painful abscesses.
“We hope campaigns [like Dental Health Week] help educate and spread a positive message on why we need to improve oral health, and how to help prevent oral diseases including decay and gum disease.”
Out of a range of dental problems, a majority of patients in the area visit the dental service for a fluoride related issue.
“One of the common problems we tend to see here in the Central Goldfields is tooth decay associated with fluoride deficiency,” the spokesperson said.
“This can be due to families being on tank water or people choosing to drink bottled water because they prefer the taste.
“Drinking fluoridated water from the tap is safe, and one of the best ways to prevent tooth decay for people of all ages, particularly in children.”
To stay ahead of tooth decay and other potential health concerns, the service’s dentists and oral hygiene therapists are urging people to follow these four steps:
• Brush teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth every day using floss or interdental brushes.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit added sugar intake.
• Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and preventative care.
For more information visit mdhs.vic.gov.au/dental-services or call 5461-0388.