This report presents key data, information and trends over time on the oral health status of Australians and their use of dental care services. Poor oral health – mainly tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss – may result in a person experiencing pain, discomfort and feelings of embarrassment. Around 1 in 3 adults have reported feeling uncomfortable about their dental appearance.

This report was last updated on 4 October 2024. 

Key findings

• In 2022–23, around 1 in 2 (52%) Australians aged 15 years and over reported seeing a dental professional in the last 12 months.
• In Australia, the rate of potentially preventable hospitalisations due to dental conditions has fluctuated over the decade from 2013–14 to 2022–23, ranging from 2.8 to 3.4 per 1,000 population.
• Around 1 in 2 people aged 5 years and over had some level of private health insurance cover for dental expenses.
• Overall, $11.1 billion was spent on dental services in 2021–22.