While Australia’s fertility rate hits a record low, the country’s future depends on the health of its children. Unfortunately, children’s dental health is often overlooked, especially in early childhood.
Paediatric dentists estimate that about 1,500 infants and children a year get dental operations, often suffering from pain and discomfort for extended periods. This stark reality underscores the urgent need to scale the theatre space so that child dental patients receive the utmost oral care.
Read on to explore Australia’s key statistics on children’s dental health as data-driven insights to maintain children’s oral health, ensuring they have the best possible start in life.
Overview of Children’s Dental Health in Australia
While oral health declines with age, good dental care early in life can preserve it. However, thousands of kids are hospitalised unnecessarily annually due to oral conditions that are entirely preventable. Let’s learn more about these child dental health trends by the numbers.
State of Oral Health in Australian Children
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) reveals that 11 in every 1,000 children aged 5-9 were admitted to hospitals for preventable dental issues in 2021-22. This figure is slightly higher than the 9.5 per 1,000 reported in 2018. Meanwhile, the rate was even higher at 14.3 per 1,000 for Indigenous children, up from 11.5 per 1,000 in 2018.
So, what dental issues are prevalent in these records? Tooth decay remains a widespread dental issue, affecting 34% of Australian children aged 5-6 and 27% of those aged 5-10 with untreated primary (baby) tooth decay.
Aside from dental decay, around 1 in 5 children aged 5-14 years have developed early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) in 2012-14. One huge factor behind this is plaque buildup. Thriving bacteria in these amassed plaques produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums.
Such figures imply that many kids have not undergone regular checkups, which could have helped prevent these dental dilemmas. Consistent dental visits are preventive measures, even if you think your child’s teeth are perfectly fine and have no issues.
Tooth Decay Rates in Kids
How common can children develop tooth decay? One critical risk factor for developing dental cavities is the consumption of high-sugar foods and beverages. Here’s a summary of the prevalence of dental cavities among Australian children:
- 2-4 years: 3.4-8%
- 5-6 years: 48.7%
- 6-14 years: 24%
At age 6, a child’s teeth become wobbly and fall out to make way for adult (permanent) teeth. This explains why teeth at that age have the highest rate of exfoliation and cavities.
These cavities, however, often lead to severe tooth decay, as many believe dental services are only for treatment rather than prevention. For example, children in 2012-14 were more likely to have visited the dentist for a dental issue (68%) than for a routine check-up (36%).
Oral Health in Different Regions
Insufficient dental services in certain regions can make dental issues more prevalent. For instance, about 9.6% of children aged 5-10 years have lost teeth due to dental caries, a higher incidence than in major cities (4.9%).
On the other hand, there was also a higher incidence of gum disease (38%) in children from remote and very remote areas compared to major cities (20%) in 2012-14. These figures are expected to rise as remote areas with a growing population continue to have limited access to dental services.
Access to Dental Care for Children in Australia
Despite growing concerns for children’s oral health, dental services have become more accessible. Let’s understand the highs and lows of children’s dental access in Australia.
Availability of Dental Services for Kids
In 2021, nearly three-quarters of Australian children had made a dental visit in the previous 12 months. Most child dental patients had done so for checkups, and about 84.7% opted for a private dental practice.
A higher percentage of these clinic-goers were from middle-class households (87%), compared to low (75.3%) and high-income (74.8%) households. However, these figures can still increase, especially for children in remote and disadvantaged communities.
Impact of the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
The CDBS has been a game-changer in scaling the children receiving adequate dental care. With this initiative, children aged 2-17 can receive fluoride treatment, fissure sealants, scale and clean, and oral hygiene instructions (e.g., tooth brushing).
So, how many Australian children benefitted from this? The CBDS provides basic dental services to around 3.3 million eligible children. Dental children patients have access to a benefit cap of $1,095 within two years, which can be used in either public or private dental clinics.
In 2021 alone, 1 in 2 children (46%) were eligible to receive services under the CDBS. The bad news is only one-third of eligible children used it in 2018-2021. Such financial assistance is key to driving the rate of children receiving robust dental treatment.
Barriers to Dental Care
What’s limiting most Australian children to optimal dental care? One prime barrier is the financial burden; in 2021, over half (53.8%) of children avoided or delayed dental checkups due to cost.
Geographical locations can also limit access to dental care, especially in rural and remote areas. That explains why children in outer regional areas tended to have less frequent visits to a dentist than in major cities. Even though CBDS exist, nearly 20% of parents were still unaware that their child was eligible for free basic dental services in 2021.
Common Dental Issues in Children
With inadequate access to dental care, more children are likely to develop oral health issues in the long run. These dental problems may lead to pain, difficulty eating, and low self-esteem. Let’s explore how Australian children develop such dental issues.
Prevalence of Cavities (Dental Caries)
Dental caries remains the most prevalent oral disease in children. Around 4 in 10 (42%) of children aged 4-10 had experienced this in 2012-14. What could hasten cavities among kids?
One prime culprit in this problem is sugary drinks. Sugar particles can get stuck in teeth, allowing bacteria to thrive and producing acids that erode tooth enamel. The eroding enamel compromises the teeth’ structure and firmness, resulting in dental decay in children.
Gum Disease in Kids
While often associated with adults, gum disease also affects children. About 22% of children aged 5-14 had gum disease in 2012-14. Early signs of this condition include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and severe oral complications.
Dental Trauma in Children
Dental trauma is common among active children, affecting about 6% of Australian dental patients. Sports-related injuries falls, and other mishaps can result in crooked, cracked, or lost teeth. Mouthguards can avoid this when your kids play or train for contact sports.
Preventive Dental Care Trends for Kids
Dental health profoundly influences a child’s well-being and confidence. That’s why preventive dental care is an essential aspect of pediatric health. Children can maintain good dental health by promoting proactive care and healthy habits from an early age. Let’s explore this topic in more detail.
Fluoride Use and Its Impact
Around 89% of the Australian population has access to fluoridated drinking water. Studies reveal that water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by 26-44% in children in 2017. That supports the idea that toothpaste with adequate fluoride levels strengthens tooth enamel, a potent solution for reducing tooth decay rates among children.
Brushing and Flossing Habits in Children
An exceptional foundation of oral hygiene begins at an early age. Educating the children about proper oral hygiene helps them take charge of their dental well-being. The great news is that around two-thirds of Australian kids aged 5-14 brushed their teeth twice daily in 2012-14.
Sealants and Other Preventive Treatments
The permanent teeth at the back of the mouth (molar teeth) can be difficult to clean. These molar teeth also have grooves and pits susceptible to developing caries. Dental sealants may be applied to teeth to create a thin layer of protection against decay.
In 2012-14, around a quarter (27%) of Australian children aged 6-14 had at least one dental sealant in their permanent teeth. Even though sealants act as thin barriers, professional cleanings complement this preventive treatment to ensure optimal oral health.
Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Children’s Oral Health
Besides consistent oral hygiene, diet is crucial to a child’s dental health. Excessive sugar consumption is a prime example among children. An Australian study highlights that sweetened beverages increase the risk of dental caries among children aged 5-16.
When sugar-laden drinks and snacks are consumed frequently, bacteria thrive and produce acids that gradually erode a child’s teeth. The ADA’s Consumer Survey even showed that while 85% know how sweet beverages can lead to decay, about 26% of children still have fruit juice daily, 37% have 2-5 fruit juices weekly, and 37% have 2-5 soft drinks a week.
Aside from having no nutritional value, sugary beverages increase children’s risk of dental issues in the long run. Parents often give their children sweet treats, yet it’s best to choose a tooth-friendly option, like a piece of fresh fruit, rather than a store-bought juice.
Making conscious dietary choices is key for children to develop strong, healthy teeth. Research strongly suggests that parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s oral health habits and attitudes. Parents can foster their child’s holistic dental state by setting positive influences.
Importance of Regular Check-ups and Early Dental Visits
How often should children visit the dentist? The ADA recommends that the first visit start when an infant’s first tooth or teeth emerge, typically before or around age one. Then, regular visits should be made every six months thereafter.
These routine dental visits are essential to identify and treat dental problems early, avoiding future oral complications. Seeing a dentist only for tooth pain or oral problems will likely create a negative first experience for your children. Early intervention is also important to avoid unnecessary costs and complex treatments due to unbearable dental issues.
Role of Aesthetic Dental Clinic in Children’s Oral Health
Aesthetic Dental Clinic commits to providing comprehensive dental care for children of all ages. Our highly experienced paediatric dentists offer personalised dental solutions to ensure your children feel safe and comfortable, making dental visits a positive experience.
With unrivalled industry expertise, we offer preventive and restorative treatments best suited to younger patients. We use advanced machines and tools in dental checkups, cleanings, fissure sealants, fluoride treatments, and various dental solutions. We also custom-fit oral hygiene practices depending on your child’s oral conditions and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are cavities in Australian children?
Stats reveal that around 42% of children aged 5-10 have experienced dental caries (cavities) in their primary (baby) teeth. Meanwhile, about 24% of children aged 6-14 had dental caries in their permanent teeth in 2012-14. These figures will likely go down with the government’s initiatives to provide more accessible dental services for children.
How often should children visit the dentist?
The ADA strongly recommends that children visit their dentists every six months for periodic checkups and professional cleanings. However, more frequent visits are common when infants’ first few teeth emerge, or children are at higher risk of tooth decay and other dental issues.
What are the main causes of tooth decay in children?
Dental decay in children may stem from high sugar consumption, poor oral hygiene, and an unhealthy diet. When kids excessively eat sweet foods and drinks, these sugar particles fuel oral bacteria to produce acids that can erode tooth enamel. With inadequate oral cleaning, the continuous eroding of the enamel creates more small holes, potentially leading to tooth decay.
What government programs support children’s dental care?
The government program’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) provides children access to basic dental services. About 46% of Australian children aged 2-17 were eligible for this scheme. Children covered by their parent’s Pensioner Concession Card or Health Care Card can also access free public dental care in most states.
How can I encourage my child to brush and floss regularly?
While a consistent oral routine can be challenging, setting an engaging routine can help. Making toothbrushing more fun, like using colourful or fun toothpaste flavours, can encourage your child to follow oral routines. You can also use positive reinforcements by rewarding your child for good oral hygiene habits. Moreover, see that your child uses a toothbrush and toothpaste (and even floss) well-suited for their age and skill level.
Secure Your Child’s Smile With Us
Maintaining optimal dental health starts at a young age. Alongside parents’ guidance, children can develop a good lifestyle, diet, and oral hygiene to ensure a lasting holistic oral condition. Regular dental visits are essential for catching any potential dental issues early.
At Aesthetic Dental Clinic, we’re your children’s dental care experts. With extensive industry experience, we provide preventive and restorative dental solutions to children of all ages and conditions. We offer patient-centred pediatric dental care, ensuring every dental visit is a positive experience for children.
Ensure your child’s smile shines radiantly in the years to come! Call 02 4655 4438 or book an appointment today for our expert paediatric dental care.
