Dentists Push Government to Finalize Stalled National Oral Health Plan Amid Widespread Decay
Dental professionals gathered in Canberra urging the federal government to release the delayed National Oral Health Plan as one-third of adults suffer untreated tooth decay and many avoid care because of cost.
More than forty dentists assembled in Canberra’s Parliament House to press the federal government to finalize the National Oral Health Plan for 2025-2034, which has been delayed despite consultations in 2024. They point to an Australian Dental Association survey showing that one-third of adults have untreated tooth decay and over 2 million people skip dental appointments because they cannot afford them. The story of Sydney student Emily Novo, who suffered a severe wisdom-tooth infection that left her unable to eat or speak for a week, illustrates the personal toll and financial anxiety of delayed care.
Dentists also cite poor access in regional areas and risky dental practices among 18- to 25-year-olds influenced by social media. ADA vice-president Angie Nilsson and president Chris Sanzaro argue that oral health must be treated as a core component of the national health system, not a luxury. They urge policymakers to adopt the pending plan to provide affordable, coordinated dental services nationwide.
Why it matters
Poor access to affordable dental care leaves many Australians with painful, costly health problems.
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