This article explains why it is better to prevent dental problems than to fix them.

Main ideas

• Dentists can do amazing repairs. But once a tooth is fixed, it will need more repairs later.
• Nothing is as good as your own natural teeth.
• In Australia, more than 8 in 10 teeth of people over 75 are decayed, missing or filled.
• Pulling all the teeth out for dentures or implants is not an easy fix. These can wear out and fail too.
• Dental disease is common, but it is not normal.
• A damaged tooth is a sign to look at your diet, cleaning and health. Ask: what has changed?

Harmful habits

• Soft drink and sugar.
• Acidic food and drinks.
• Not cleaning well enough.
• Dry mouth.
• Poor general health.
• Not changing your habits as your needs change.

Helpful habits

• Low sugar and low acid diet.
• Brushing and flossing well.
• Managing dry mouth.
• Looking after your general health.
• Using the right dental products the right way.
• Changing your habits as your needs change.

Good habits feel hard at first, but soon become easy. Even if you already have lots of fillings, prevention helps them last longer.