Fear of dental visits leading to vicious cycle of decay
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https://www.adpa.com.au/news/book-your-free-denture-check
● One in four live with tooth decay and the number of adults with fewer than 21 teeth are increasing
● Those with dentures who do not visit their dental practitioner annually may experience headaches, neck pain, bone loss and irritated gums
● Eight in ten Australians fear dental visits, with half having avoided the dentist in the past year
● During Dental Health Week (6-12 August), ADPA members are offering free denture checks and encouraging people to “Watch Your Mouth” when it comes to oral hygiene.
One in four Australians live with tooth decay, often caused by poor diet choices[1]. However, those who delay going to the dentist are at risk of the vicious cycle of decay, often requiring more intensive treatments. Tooth decay can lead to further tooth loss which can result in the need for dentures.
Despite considerable advancements in dental technology and techniques, fear of the dentist is all too real for 85% of Australians[2], resulting in almost half (45%) avoiding their annual dental check-up[3] or cancelling appointments.
With the number of adults living with fewer than 21 teeth increasing[2], the Australian Dental Prosthetists Association (ADPA) are warning that dental decay, if left untreated may lead to tooth loss and the need for replacement teeth.
Missing teeth cause facial muscles to droop and create a sunken-cheeked appearance. Full or partial dentures are often used to maintain a happy smile. However, it is essential for those who wear dentures to visit their dental prosthetist annually for adjustments, those who fail to do so may experience headaches, neck pain, bone loss and irritated gums[4].
During Dental Health Week (6-12 August 2018), the Australian Dental Prosthetists Association is educating Australians about the importance of maintaining good oral health in every aspect of their lives and to “Watch Your Mouth” when it comes to oral hygiene by offering free denture checks throughout Dental Health Week.