Good oral health for adults

What to check for

Photo of older woman's dry and cracked lips  

Lips: Dryness, lumps, cracked corners, inflammation or abnormal colour

Photo of tongue with cracks and swelling. 

Tongue: Patchy, white coating or any ulcers, redness or swelling

Photo of gum with ulcer 

Gums: Ulcers, sores, swelling, redness or bleeding

Photo of unhealthy mouth with decaying teeth with black and brown spots. 

Teeth: Worn down teeth, decay (black or brown spots), broken fillings

Photo of denture with some of the teeth missing 

Dentures: Cracks, breaks, worn areas, cleanliness, signs of irritation

Adults who have both a Medicare Card and a Centrelink Health Care Card or a Pensioner Concession Card or a Commonwealth Seniors Card are eligible for free public dental services in NSW.

5 facts to know about when checking your mouth

  • Dental disease is preventable and can be minimised if caught early.
  • Check your mouth closely and weekly for any changes.
  • Look for any changes in your mouth: swelling, red or white patches, gums that have changed colour or sores that do not heal.
  • Contact a dental professional if you are experiencing any pain ,swelling, bleeding or infection within or around your mouth.
  • Visit your dental professional regularly, ideally yearly.

5 signs of a healthy mouth

  • Lips: Healthy lips should be smooth, pink and moist.
  • Tongue: A healthy tongue should be pink and moist
  • Gums: Healthy gums and tissues should be pink, moist, smooth and free from bleeding and swelling.
  • Teeth: Healthy teeth should be clean and free from food, plaque and decay.
  • Dentures: should be clean and well-fitting

For further information visit our Information for patients

Hard copies of this publication can be obtained from Better Health Centre Publications (02) 9887 5450

SHPN (COHS) 140126 April 2016​

Current as at: Monday 27 April 2020
Contact page owner: Centre for Oral Health Strategy