A recent study by Monash University has found almost half of 18 to 29 year old Australians are feeling depressed or anxious and they are turning to sugary treats during periods of stress.

Dr McAnulty said he is particularly concerned with people staying at home more often during the pandemic that people are snacking more than they should.

"We all like a treat but you can overdo it," he said.

"The problem with snacking is people are exposing their teeth to a high sugar content over a sustained period of time and that can cause a dental decay."

Dr McAnulty also added another study showed 1 in 3 adults aged 15 and over have untreated tooth decay and about 1 in 2 Australian adults eat more sugar than they should.

"These are national studies but certainly Orange is no different than anywhere else," he said.

"Before COVID, between 2017 to 2018, there was over 250 presentations of preventable dental diseases in Orange and over a thousand cases across the Western Local Health District.

"It's a significant number and the thing about dental disease is that it is widespread and largely preventable."

As this week is National Dental Health Week, Dr McAnulty added a lot of processed foods have hidden sugars.

"People need t look at the fine print on the label to see what it contains and a lot of the foods people buy and snack on are quite sticky," he said.

"It will then adhere to the teeth and give the bacteria cause to create an acid byproduct to decay the teeth."

For those who are worried about the financial cost of visiting the dentist, Dr McAnulty said it is wise to get a regular check up every 12 months.

"Once dental disease gets a hold and its left untreated you may not be aware until you get pain but once it happens you have a significant problem," he said.

"I like to liken it to a car, if something happens to the vehicle you get it regularly serviced, it should be the same with checking up on your teeth."

Dr McAnulty added people should upkeep with regular cleaning, flossing and be careful with what you consume.

"Patients should look after their diet as what you put in your mouth affects not only your general health but also your teeth and to eat fresh fruits and vegetables rather than processed foods," he said.