Good oral health for adults
What to check for
Lips: Dryness, lumps, cracked corners, inflammation or abnormal colour
Tongue: Patchy, white coating or any ulcers, redness or swelling
Gums: Ulcers, sores, swelling, redness or bleeding
Teeth: Worn down teeth, decay (black or brown spots), broken fillings
Dentures: Cracks, breaks, worn areas, cleanliness, signs of irritation
Adults who have both a Medicare Card and a Centrelink Health Care Card or a Pensioner Concession Card or a Commonwealth Seniors Card are eligible for free public dental services in NSW.
5 facts to know about when checking your mouth
- Dental disease is preventable and can be minimised if caught early.
- Check your mouth closely and weekly for any changes.
- Look for any changes in your mouth: swelling, red or white patches, gums that have changed colour or sores that do not heal.
- Contact a dental professional if you are experiencing any pain ,swelling, bleeding or infection within or around your mouth.
- Visit your dental professional regularly, ideally yearly.
5 signs of a healthy mouth
- Lips: Healthy lips should be smooth, pink and moist.
- Tongue: A healthy tongue should be pink and moist
- Gums: Healthy gums and tissues should be pink, moist, smooth and free from bleeding and swelling.
- Teeth: Healthy teeth should be clean and free from food, plaque and decay.
- Dentures: should be clean and well-fitting
For further information visit our Information for patients
Hard copies of this publication can be obtained from Better Health Centre Publications (02) 9887 5450
SHPN (COHS) 140126 April 2016
