New Zealand's Dental Hygiene Still Needs Much Work

Kiwis are suffering from dental health issues all over the country. Looking at the most recent statistics, most New Zealanders’ dental hygiene practices still need a lot of work to avoid major problems and alleviate our overall dental health status.

According to the most recent annual update from the Ministry of Health, less than half of Kiwi adults visited a dental health worker in the year 2016/2017.

Additionally, last year’s report from the Ministry of Social Development Work & Income revealed that they had given out 400,000 emergency grants over the past six years, costing more than $140 million.

Kids in New Zealand are not safe from tooth decay either. It’s reported that nationally, 40 percent of our 5-year-old kids had some tooth decay. For Maori children, the figure was almost 60 percent, while for Pasifika it was 66 percent.

The oral health of older New Zealanders has also been declared an “urgent clinical problem”. A recent Otago University survey revealed that those with dementia, and older men in general, have dirtier and more decayed teeth. Lead author of the study Professor Murray Thomson said that greater rates of tooth decay can lead to dental and facial infections, poorer quality of life, malnutrition and communication difficulties.

Professional dental practitioners in New Zealand are strongly promoting good oral hygiene across the demographic board through regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, as well as a change in diet that excludes too much sugary and acidic food.

New Lynn Dental Care, in particular, strongly advocate seeing a dental hygienist regularly to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. They provide affordable dental care and dental services for Kiwis of all ages.

Book an appointment for a check-up or cleaning on the New Lynn Dental Care website today!