dental visits: 5 things you should know

Everyone should see an oral health professional regularly

• people with natural teeth
• people with no natural teeth
• people with dentures
• people who receive nil by mouth

At regular dental visits an oral health professional can:

• check that all parts of the mouth are healthy
• clean the teeth (remove tartar build-up and polish)
• suggest ways to make daily mouth care easier
• recommend mouth care products
• give feedback on an oral health care plan
• treat small problems before they become bigger problems.

• Different people will have different needs. An oral health professional can recommend how often an individual should see them.

• Anyone can go to a private dental clinic. They will have to pay.
• Adults who have a healthcare card or pensioner concession card can go to a public dental clinic. Clients of a disability service will usually not have to pay.
• Find out more about dental services available.

A person should see an oral health professional straight away if:

• they have pain in their mouth
• their gums are bleeding
• they have sores, lumps or any patches that are a different colour in their mouth
• if they, or you, are worried about their mouth for any reason.