June often arrives faster than expected. Between work, school holidays and everyday life, many people suddenly realise the year is already halfway through. It’s also the time many private health fund benefits reset, making it a smart opportunity to prioritise your oral health before unused extras potentially go to waste.
At Markham St Dental, our oral health therapist (OHT) Emma Jacob helps patients of all ages maintain healthy smiles through preventive care, education and gentle treatment tailored to individual needs.
What Does an Oral Health Therapist Do?
Oral health therapists play an important role in preventive dental care. Emma works closely with patients to help maintain healthy teeth and gums through professional cleans, oral hygiene support and early intervention for common dental concerns.
She also focuses on creating positive dental experiences, particularly for children and nervous patients. Emma understands that dental anxiety can start early, so she takes time to help patients feel comfortable, informed and supported during their visit.
Her calm, friendly approach often helps patients feel more relaxed in the chair, even the little ones who arrive feeling unsure.
Meet Our Oral Health Therapist, Emma Jacob
Emma joined the dental industry in 2016 and completed her bachelor’s degree at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga. Since then, she has built a reputation for compassionate care and genuine connection with patients.
Outside the clinic, Emma keeps busy with her three dogs: Ned the sausage dog, Ralph the energetic kelpie and Roxy the gentle rottweiler. She also loves beach road trips, baking attempts that she describes as ‘average’ and rewatching The Big Bang Theory for what may now be the 51st time.
Growing up on a cattle and cropping property near the Victorian border helped shape Emma’s down-to-earth personality and approachable style of care.
Why Is Preventive Care So Important?
Preventive dental care aims to identify concerns early before they progress into more complex problems. Regular professional cleans and oral health assessments may help reduce the risk of gum disease, tooth decay and plaque build-up.
Emma also works with patients to improve home care habits through practical, personalised advice. Small adjustments to brushing and flossing routines can make a significant difference to long-term oral health.
Every patient has different needs and treatment recommendations vary based on individual oral health conditions.
Use Your Health Fund Benefits Before They Reset
Many health funds reset benefits around the end of the financial year, which means June can become one of the busiest times for dental appointments. Booking an appointment with an oral health therapist before your benefits reset may help you maximise your available extras cover.
Patients should check directly with their health fund provider regarding eligibility, rebates and annual limits.
Ready to Book Your Visit at Markham St Dental?
If it’s been a while since your last dental clean or oral health check, now is a great time to book an appointment with Emma and the team at Markham St Dental.
You can reach us by calling (02) 6772 6554.
We look forward to caring for your smile!