4th March 2025

Media release

The Dental Hygienists Association of Australia (DHAA) is proud to launch the Mouth Matters campaign, advocating for a fundamental shift in healthcare policy to recognise the need for oral health to be addressed in our primary care system. With
oral diseases on the rise, and proven links to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues, DHAA is calling for urgent action to make oral health care accessible for all Australians through their GPs as part of the management of their chronic diseases.

The Issue:

Currently, oral health remains separate from mainstream healthcare, despite strong evidence that poor oral health contributes to chronic disease and that chronic diseases can worsen oral health. One-third of Australian adults suffer from untreated
dental decay, and a similar number experience periodontal disease. Alarmingly, hospitalisations for preventable oral health issues cost the Australian healthcare system an estimated $605 million annually.

At its most acute, gum disease in the form of severe periodontal disease is responsible for more years lost to disability than any other disease. This is in large part because of the strong connection between periodontal disease and some of our most significant chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Poorly managed gum disease can impact blood sugar, lead to inflammation, and otherwise exacerbate or contribute to other chronic conditions. But gum disease also leads to poorer physical health, often due to pain and discomfort that restricts proper eating. This in turn increases the risk of chronic disease or directly contributes to poorer outcomes for those with chronic conditions.

The Solution:

The Mouth Matters campaign highlights the need for accessible, primary care-based oral health services aimed at improving access to oral care and recognising the connection between oral health and chronic disease outcomes. Oral care is distinct from restorative dental care but provides an important bridge between primary care system that treats chronic disease and oral and dental services. DHAA is seeking support from all candidates for an expansion of two key

Government initiatives:

Expanding Medicare Coverage – DHAA is calling for the inclusion of dental hygienists, oral health therapists, and dental therapists as eligible allied health providers under the Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program, allowing them to provide access to GP led and primary care-based oral healthinterventions for eligible patients.
Workforce Integration – DHAA is calling for an expansion of the list of eligible professionals able to be employed within general practices under the Workforce Incentive Program – Practice Stream (WIP). This will allow general practices to use WIP funding to employ Oral Health Practitioners as a support for multidisciplinary collaboration and early intervention.
“Despite overwhelming evidence linking oral health to chronic disease, appropriate oral care remains financially out of reach for many Australians and distinct from the primary care system where most Australians receive care,” said DHAA President,Jinous Eighani-Roushani.
“By integrating Oral Health Practitioners into primary care, we can improve health outcomes, reduce avoidable hospitalisations, and build a more sustainable health system.”

“The proposals outlined above are practical, cost-effective, and draw on existing programs and the vital role of general practice as the cornerstone of our primary care system,” she said.

How This Will Help:

Allows GPs to refer to Oral Health Practitioners for Medicare-rebated or WIP-subsidised chronic disease-focused oral interventions providing more affordable access.
Provides oral care access in general practice settings. Improved management of oral disease and associated chronic disease in primary care settings.
Improved self-management capacity for patients with chronic diseases.
DHAA urges policymakers to act now and recognise oral health as an integral part of general health. Expanding Medicare access and integrating Oral Health Practitioners into primary care will ensure all Australians can receive the essential oral care that they need.

Support our campaign
For more information on the Mouth Matters campaign and to support this initiative,
visit www.dhaa.info .
Media Contact:
Bill Suen – CEO, DHAA
Phone: +61 (0) 412 831 669
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.dhaa.info

A campaign brochure is available here:  Mouth Matters Brochure