New research from a deep dive into the nation’s mouths has found three-quarters of us rarely or never floss or clean between our teeth.
The ADA is governed by Federal Council, which consists of 17 voting councillors, including two from Western Australia, who are appointed through branches and who are responsible for setting the direction, approving policy, compliance and oversight of ADA inc.
Also, one in five adults brushes their teeth only once a day and over 60% of adults haven’t seen a dentist for at least 2 years.
Among other surprising outcomes, the Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) 2020 National Consumer Survey of around 25,000 people released today for Dental Health Week (2-8 August) also found:
“These findings show that Australians have the capacity to improve the daily habits that contribute to good oral health,” said ADA Vice President Dr Steven Liew.
“Not brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is a fast track to developing tooth decay, gum disease and a whole range of health issues that can arise from sub-par oral health.
“Previous studies suggest that untreated advanced gum disease can increase the chances of serious cardiac events, adverse pregnancy outcomes including prematurity, Type 2 diabetes and other significant health conditions.
“Brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, and flossing thoroughly every day, as well as consuming a diet low in added sugar and seeing your dentist at least once a year, all go a long way to maintaining good oral health and benefitswhole of body health.”
Teeth whitening statistics showed 37% people purchased a kit online and 16% from a chemist or supermarket,16% had it done at the dental practice, and 22% did it at home under the supervision of the dentist who supplied a take-home kit.
Further, 64% said they weren’t aware of the risks of teeth whitening services operated by non-dentists. These risks can include painful chemical burns to the gums and lips, and sensitivity or pain affecting the teeth. Meanwhile 18% of respondents said they whitened yearly, 38% every 6months, 26% bi-monthly, 15% monthly and 3% every week.
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