As World Oral Health Day 2025 approaches, the spotlight is on Nambour and Queensland’s growing oral health concerns. With tooth decay rates on the rise and access to fluoridated water decreasing in parts of the state, it’s more important than ever to focus on preventive dental care.
At Blackall Terrace Dental in Nambour, we’re dedicated to empowering our community with the knowledge and care needed to maintain healthy smiles. Let’s take a closer look at the state of oral health in Queensland—and what you can do to protect your teeth for life.
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The Fluoridation Debate
Fluoride has long been recognised as a crucial tool in preventing tooth decay. However, access to fluoridated water across Queensland has dropped by 20% since 2012, when local councils were given the power to decide whether to fluoridate their water supply.
While communities like Nambour and across Sunshine Coast continue to benefit from fluoridation, many other regions remain unprotected. This has led to widening gaps in dental health outcomes, particularly for children and vulnerable populations.
A recent University of Queensland study has confirmed that fluoride does not negatively impact brain development, dispelling persistent myths about its safety. However, as Dr Joseph Hollywood BDS (Practice Principal at Blackall Terrace Dental) explains, fluoride alone isn’t enough:
“Fluoride helps, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. We need to focus on comprehensive oral health habits—regular brushing, a low-sugar diet, and professional dental check-ups are all essential.”
The Bigger Picture
Beyond fluoridation, the statistics on Queensland’s oral health are concerning:
1 in 3 adults in Queensland has untreated tooth decay.
Over 63,000 Australians are hospitalised annually for preventable dental conditions.
Dr Hollywood sees first-hand the long-term impact of untreated dental issues:
“Many patients come to us needing full-mouth rehabilitation—crowns, implants, and bridges—to restore their smiles. While we have the expertise to provide these treatments, so many of these cases could have been prevented with earlier intervention.”
The key message this World Oral Health Day - Prevention is always better than cure.
Take Charge of Your Oral Health Today
In Nambour this World Oral Health Day, let’s take action to improve oral health across Queensland. Here’s what you can do:
✔ Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
✔ Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
✔ Limit sugary foods and drinks to reduce the risk of cavities.
✔ Stay hydrated with water - the best choice!
✔ Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional care.
At Blackall Terrace Dental, we’re committed to supporting our community with high-quality dental care. Whether it’s a routine check-up or more complex treatment, our expert team is here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.
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