Dental disease can be prevented, yet despite this, the percentage of the Australian population who suffer from some form of tooth decay remain worryingly high. Results from the latest Australian Oral Health Tracker report card point to the fact that up to90 per cent of adults face tooth decay issues in some form. The reasons for this are vast as they are varied with many environmental factors contributing to the dental difficulties experienced. Failure to clean teeth twice a day as recommended by dentists, smoking, consuming too much of sugar-laden foods and drinks including alcohol and avoiding dental check-ups are well-established reasons for the rise in dental diseases.

 A popular opinion in the dental industry is that by generating awareness around the far-reaching consequences of tooth loss, Australians will invest more effort into protecting their oral health. Dental Health Week is one such example of programmes initiated by regulatory dental authorities used to promote oral health among the public. Much focus of these programmes is aimed at the young. It is hoped that by instilling good hygiene practices in childhood will help carry these behaviours and attitudes into adulthood.

 Effects of dental decay costly and painful

Untreated tooth decay and eventual tooth loss can impinge on the quality of life a patient lives. Restoration of teeth lost is possible throughdental implants in Melbourne. Treatments can consist of replacing a single tooth or, for multiple teeth lost, all-on-four implants are a viable option. It is even possible for a patient to receive same day teeth.

The following are just some of the ways pain and discomfort and other difficulties can become part and parcel of everyday life:

Patients have to avoid certain foods

The poor condition of one’s teeth can present challenges (chewing and swallowing) to consuming certain types of food. Pain may be experienced when biting down on hard substances or teeth may become dislodged. Avoiding some foods may present nutrition challenges as a patient may not be able to consume the recommended daily intake of essential nutrients.

There is an established link between oral health and general health

Many in the dental industry including the Australian Institute of Health & Welfare warn of the direct link between oral health and numerous serious medical conditions of which two of the most widely known are diabetes and heart disease.

Social avoidance and other psychological effects

The tentacles of dental disease are all-pervasive extending to impinge of patients’ social and psychological welfare. A patient’s self-image can take a bashing with a patient opting to avoid social contact due to embarrassment of appearance.

Failure to seek treatment for poor oral health can land patients in hospital. As it is a progressive disease if not treated appropriately, this can exacerbate factors that can give rise to life-reducing conditions requiring hospitalisation. Timely treatment at a reputable dental clinic such as High Dental Implants Melbourne can help avoid many of the difficulties associated with the different aspects of dental decay. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.