Greens candidate for Aston, Salore Craig, has called for Australia to get behind the Greens Denticare policy, which would provide free dental care to every Australia who needed it.
"A trip to the dentist can be a daunting prospect at the best of times, but the consequences of this vital service being unavailable can be dire," said Ms Craig.
"But for over 500 000 Australians, this is the reality. For these people, lack of access to dental care can lead to increased chances of cardiovascular disease and stroke. For these people, basic dental health is about more than just a winning smile."
The Greens Party’s National Healthcare Plan, which focuses on early intervention and prevention, includes a universal dental care scheme to combat this growing problem.
Denticare – an expansion of the current Medicare program – focuses on primary, non-cosmetic dental health. The innovative plan also recognizes the invaluable work of many dental professionals by supporting dental pro bono programs for low-income earners.
“We can get regular check ups on Medicare from our Doctors and Optometrists, why not our Dentists as well?”
“Anyone who has ever had a toothache will know how invaluable this program will be,”
“By ensuring everyone has access to proper dental care now, we will reduce the strain on the public health care system in the future. No doubt it will save a lot of agony, too.”