• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit sugar intake
• Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and preventive care
• Drink fluoridated tap water.

How often should I see a dentist?

Regular routine check-ups are important - not just for the teeth but also the gums and the mouth as a whole. Your dentist will advise the ideal frequency of your visits based on individual needs, but a routine check-up every 6-12 months is recommended by most dentists.

Regular visits identify changes in need of treatment, such as tooth decay or gum disease in its early stages, making treatment more straight-forward. Regular visits can also help identify risks so that preventative strategies can be put in place. 

The oral health of Australia

• Dental caries (tooth decay) is the most prevalent health problem in Australia
• Periodontal (gum) diseases are the fifth most prevalent health problem among Australians
• About 90% of all tooth loss can be attributed to dental caries and periodontal disease, both of which are preventable and treatable
• Although preventable, dental decay is the second most costly diet-related disease in Australia, with an economic impact comparable to heart disease and diabetes
• Almost 29% of Australians aged 25 to 44 were found to have untreated tooth decay
• 19% of Australians over 65 years of age had no natural teeth

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