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released: 19 Aug 2005 author: AIHW Dental Statistics and Research Unit

This report provides information on the oral health and use of dental services among older adults in Australia.Data on tooth loss, denture use, dental visiting patterns, treatment received and affordability of dental care are presented by government concession cardholder status.

ISSN 1445 7441; Cat. no. DEN 142; 4pp.; Internet only

Summary

  • Declining frequency of dental visits with increasing age.
  • Use of dental services for problem rather than check-up increases with age.
  • Majority have low DMFT but 10-15% could be regarded as high risk.
  • Precavitated lesions in 47.7% and cavitated lesions in 28.4% young adults indicate significant needs for preventive and restorative care.
  • Low prevalence of gum (periodontal) health and high prevalence of calculus in young adults may reflect lower rates of dental utilisation.
  • These results for the young adults represent the oral health of metropolitan, fluoridated Adelaide and are likely to be an underrepresentation of the oral health needs of this age group nationally.

Recommended citation

AIHW Dental Statistics and Research Unit 2005. Oral health and access to dental care - older adults. DSRU research report 18. Cat. no. DEN 142. Canberra: AIHW. Viewed 13 June 2013 <http://www.aihw.gov.au/publication-detail/?id=6442467748>.