Aussies' poor oral health is keeping hospital emergency wards buzzing with the latest government data suggesting dental conditions are contributing 24 per cent of acute potentially preventable hospitalisations, the second most common cause behind urinary tract infections at 25 per cent.
This comes amidst research from Bupa which suggests just 52 per cent of adults had regular health checks such as dental check-ups which play a big role in addressing small problems before they spiral into a situation requiring hospitalisation. Potentially preventable hospitalisations are conditions where the hospitalisation may have been prevented through preventative care at home or treatment in settings like GPs and dentists.
Bupa Dental Principal Dentist, Dr Mark Dohlad, said skipping or avoiding visits to the dentist increases the risk of small issues spiralling into major oral and general health conditions.
"A visit to the dentist involves a whole lot more than a simple clean and cavity check, we also look for signs of oral cancer, oral infections and a range of other conditions that can have a significant impact on your general health if not addressed early.
"Many Aussies are also rushing to the emergency ward as a first resort for dental issues rather than consulting their dentist, many of whom can provide emergency treatment on short notice or provide relevant referrals or advice," Dr Dohlad said.
Data from the Australian Dental Association suggests seniors, who are most vulnerable to health issues, make fewer trips to the dentist than the rest of the population, with cost the most common barrier.
"In recent times, we have worked hard to address cost of living concerns, with eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers getting 100% back on check-ups and simple dental fillings when visiting Bupa Members First Ultimate practices.
"As we move into the second half of the year, it's definitely time to take stock of your health and book in that dental check-up if you haven't already. A visit to the dentist today could save you a painful visit to the hospital later on," Dr Dohlad said.
Bupa is also a provider for the government's Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), a Government-funded program that provides up to $1,132 for basic dental services for eligible children aged 2-17 over two calendar years to access basic dental services such as examinations, x-rays, cleaning, fillings and extractions.
