Dental health information

Looking after your teeth and gums can:

  • prevent tooth pain and dental problems
  • help you eat, speak and smile comfortably
  • support your overall health and wellbeing.

Good oral health may also help reduce the risk of health conditions such as:

  • diabetes
  • heart disease
  • stroke

Some people may need extra support to maintain good oral health. For more information, see health conditions and disability.

Keep your mouth healthy

Good oral health helps you eat, speak and smile, and supports your overall health, including your heart and managing conditions like diabetes.

Simple ways to protect your teeth and gums

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Eat healthy foods.
  • Drink tap water.
  • Visit your dental practitioner regularly.

​Common dental problems

Tooth decay (dental caries)

The most common dental disease. Plaque bacteria feed on sugar and make acid that damages teeth. Snacking between meals increases the damage caused by acid.​​

Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)

Caused by plaque buildup. Can lead to bleeding gums and tooth loss. Linked to heart disease and diabetes.

Oral cancer

Affects the mouth, tongue, lips or throat.

Regular dental checks help find problems early.

Dry mouth (low saliva/xerostomia)

Dry mouth happens when your body does not make enough saliva. Saliva helps protect your teeth and gums.

Common signs of dry mouth include:

  • dry or sticky feeling in the mouth
  • cracked lips
  • mouth sores
  • red, sore or dry tongue
  • bad breath
  • difficulty eating or swallowing

Ways to manage dry mouth

  • Drink water regularly throughout the day.
  • Chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva.
  • Use saliva sprays or oral moisturisers.

If dry mouth continues, speak with your dental practitioner for advice and support.

​

Looking after your teeth, gums and mouth

Food and drinks

  • Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.
  • Choose tooth-friendly snacks (cheese, yoghurt).
  • Limit sugary foods and drinks.
  • Drink fluoridated tap water – it’s best for your teeth.

Toothbrushing

  • Brush teeth twice daily.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
  • Spit out after brushing – do not rinse.
  • Clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes.
  • Replace toothbrush every 3 months.
  • Clean dentures daily with mild soap (no toothpaste).

For more information on toothbrushing see How to Brush.

Dental check-ups

Regular dental visits help prevent problems. Dental professionals can:

  • check your teeth, gums and mouth
  • give advice and treatment
  • look for early signs of oral cancer.

You may be eligible for free dental care through NSW public dental services.

Dental injuries

If a tooth is knocked out:

  • stay calm and find the tooth
  • store it in milk or saline
  • do not scrub it
  • get dental care immediately.

Free emergency dental care is available through NSW public dental services.

In an emergency, contact your public dental services, or go to your local hospital emergency department.

Smoking and vaping

Smoking and vaping can increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Support to quit is available through iCanQuit or NSW Quitline on 13 78 48.

Drugs and alcohol

Alcohol, drugs and some medicines can cause dry mouth, bleeding gums, teeth grinding and tooth loss.

Support is available through Your Room.


Current as at: Monday 29 June 2026
Contact page owner: Centre for Oral Health Strategy