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Oral health is integral to our general health and well-being; impacting every aspect of our lives.
The results from a survey carried out in 12 countries, by YouGov on behalf of FDI World Dental Federation, exposed a significant gap between what Australians believe to be good oral health practices, versus what they actually do.
Just over half (51 per cent) of people surveyed mistakenly think it is important to brush your teeth straight after every main meal.
FDI recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth to avoid weakening tooth enamel.
“It is vital Australians take ownership of their oral health and separate truth from myth,” said president of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), Dr Hugo Sachs.
“Understanding good oral health practices and adopting them early in life, will help to maintain optimal oral health into old age and ensure you live a long life free from physical pain and often emotional suffering caused by oral disease,” he added.
Two out of three (66pc) reported they rinsed their mouth out with water after brushing, with a similar amount (69pc) tending to do this.
It is actually recommended not to rinse with water straight after brushing to allow maximum exposure to fluoride, which will optimize the preventative effects.
Over a third (35pc) surveyed felt that drinking fruit juice rather than fizzy drinks was important for good oral health. Fruit juice however, can also be high in sugar which can cause tooth decay.
FDI recommends keeping consumption of sugary drinks to a minimum as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
“These survey results highlight an alarming discrepancy between knowledge and actual good oral health practices,” said Dr Patrick Hescot, FDI president.
“We want everyone to take control of their oral health and understand that by adopting good oral hygiene habits, avoiding risk factors and having a regular dental check-up, they can help protect their mouths.
“A healthy mouth allows us to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow and convey a range of emotions with confidence and without pain, discomfort and disease. Good oral health matters and translates to a better quality of life.”
It was also found 81 per cent of people surveyed agreed that visiting a dentist once per year is good oral health practice.
