AMA WA head calls for dental Medicare

Australians are suffering from chronic health problems that could have been prevented by a quick trip to the dentist.

Speaking at a parliamentary inquiry on Monday, Australian Medical Association WA president Michael Gannon said chronic renal disease and rheumatic heart disease could be caused or exacerbated by inadequate dental care.

Dr Gannon said anything that could be done to improve dental care for those who don't have the means to visit a private dentist would benefit the community.

"There is a cost to our community that we don't have the dental equivalent of Medicare," Dr Gannon told the Public Administration Committee.

"All across this state there are people who go and see their GP and get a subsidised prescription for antibiotics or strong painkillers where more ideally they need comprehensive dental care."