ORAL sex is just as bad for your mouth as alcohol and smoking, the Australian Dental Association says.
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The association is lifting the profile of oral sex dangers as part of Dental Health Week, which starts today.
Association oral health committee chairman Peter Alldritt said health issues like oral cancer should be at the forefront of young people's concerns if they wanted teeth at 30.
He said unprotected oral sex, improper care of lip and tongue piercings, smoking, alcohol and sugary drinks all led to teeth, gum and mouth damage.
"Whatever you put in your mouth or do with your mouth, do so responsibly, in moderation and with the appropriate precautions," he said.
Research shows more than 25 per cent of Australian oral cancer diagnoses are likely due to people contracting the human papilloma virus through oral sex.
More than 75 per cent of people diagnosed smoke, and at least three Australians are diagnosed with oral cancer each day.
To decrease these statistics the association has released its Young Person's Oral Survival Guide.
"The guide explains all the oral health risks that young adults are exposed to," Dr Alldritt said.
"It reminds them that they are not bullet-proof and need to take care of their oral health."
The guide includes tips like leaving a toothbrush on the pillow to remind you to brush your teeth before going to bed after a night out, drinking sports drinks through a straw and getting vaccines that protects you against HPV.
It also suggest not brushing your teeth until an hour after having a sports drink, as the acid temporarily softens tooth enamel and brushing too early will harm it.
"Be vigilant and get your dentist to check anything that you notice has changed in your mouth that lasts longer than two weeks," the guide said.
"It doesn't have to be painful, just different."
The guide is available at www.dentalhealthweek.com.au.