University of Sydney experts warn of rising gum disease

Oral health experts at the University of Sydney are highlighting the prevalence of gum disease caused by ineffective brushing techniques. Andrew Terry, a senior lecturer at the University of Sydney School of Dentistry, reports that approximately 30 per cent of Australian adults suffer from moderate to severe gum disease due to poor brushing habits.

Common mistakes include brushing too hard, which can damage gums without effectively removing plaque, and failing to reach all areas of the mouth. Experts use disclosing tablets to demonstrate plaque build-up; these tablets turn pink to show new plaque and purple to indicate older, harder-to-remove plaque.

Challenges to maintaining oral health in Australia include the high cost of dental treatment and an overwhelmed public health system. Experts emphasize that oral health is closely linked to overall bodily health, noting that sickness in one part of the body can affect the mouth and vice versa.