Visiting the dentist

Yaama Gurrru, my name is Jade Beetson. I am a proud Ngemba women from Brewarrina, NSW.

I would like first to pay my respect to my Elders Past, Present and Emerging.

For the past 6 years I have been working on Wiradjuri country as an Indigenous dental assistant. Today I would like to share with you information that can help with your dental health concerns. If you have any of the below dental problems you need to see a health professional straight away.

  • Swollen face

  • Trouble swallowing

  • Pain (especially if it is keeping you up at night)

  • Tooth knocked out


Who is a health professional?

  • Dentist

  • Local doctor

  • Hospital

  • Aboriginal Medical Services

  • Aboriginal health worker

 

Even if you do not have any problems with your mouth, it is important to see your dentist 6 monthly or yearly.
 

Below I have listed some worries or concerns you may have about dental treatment
 

Worries or concerns
Did ya know

Remoteness of your community

Living in a remote community can mean you may not have a local dentist, but there are other options available.

Leaving mob/country for treatment

Don’t be shame to speak up about what your worries are about leaving mob/country.
There are many support services available have a yarn with a health professional.

I can’t afford the dentist

Free dental treatment is provided throughout Australia at Government dental clinics and Aboriginal Medical Services. 

Yarns getting around town

Healthcare workers are obligated to keep your information private. This means they can’t yarn to anyone without your permission about your treatment or what is said at you appointment.

Shame

Healthcare workers are not here to make you feel shame. We are here to work through your concerns when it comes to being shame. Good oral health is important to maintain overall health and wellness.


Anytime is a good time to start your oral hygiene. Don’t be shame to have that yarn with the health professionals mentioned above so we can all have a deadly smile.

Jade Beetson
About the Author
Jade Beetson

Jade is a dental assistant and a proud Ngemba women from Brewarrina, NSW.

Keep your
smile for life

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