World oral Health Day (w o h d ) is celebrated globally on March 20th every year at our dental clinic in Mohali. It has been celebrated since 2013 with the aim to raise awareness about the importance of oral health and promoting good oral hygiene practices.
ORAL HEALTH TIPS AND ADVICE
- Brush correctly: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride tooth paste . The technique of brushing should be correct . The brush should be moved up and down, keeping the head of the brush at an angle of 45 degrees to the tooth . The brush should be moved all around all teeth from outside and then inside and then with scrubbing motion on the occlusal surface with which we eat our food. We should use a soft tooth brush and not apply any force on the teeth while brushing.
- Floss regularly: Flossing should be done to remove the food stuck in the hard areas . The floss should also be done with the correct technique else it may harm your gums and teeth . Ask your dentist to teach you the correct method of flossing.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups help prevent oral health issues number.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods: Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
- Clean your tongue: Clean your tongue regularly to remove the bacteria and fresh and your breath.
IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HEALTH FOR OVERALL HEALTH
- Oral health and heart diseases: Research suggests a link between gum disease and heart disease.
- Oral health and diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to oral health issues.
- Oral health and respiratory health: Oral health issues can increase the risk of respiratory infections.
- Oral health and mental health: Oral health issues can effect the self esteem and mental health.
ORAL HEALTH TIPS FOR SPECIFIC GROUPS
- CHILDREN: Encourage children to brush regularly twice a day as the milk teeth have the equal importance as the permanent teeth .They cannot be called unimportant and left to decay. They will affect the growth and development of the permanent teeth in the jaw.
- PREGNANT WOMEN: Oral health is important in pregnant women. There are hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy leading to increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Research suggest a link between gum disease and preterm labour.
We suggest regular tooth brushing twice a day and good oral care to the pregnant patients. The mouth should be free of any calculus which can cause gum diseases . - OLDER ADULTS: Good oral health is essential for proper nutrition and digestion of old people. Oral infections can lead to serious health issues such as pneumonia and hard diseases . We suggest regular brushing and flossing , regular dental checkups and cleaning dentures daily.
ADAPTIVE ORAL CARE TOOLS FOR OLDER PATIENTS
- Electric toothbrush can be easier to use for the old patients.
- Oral care such as toothbrush holder and floss threaders.
- PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: People with disabilities have the right to equal accesses to oral Health Care. Good oral health will prevent conditions of pain , infection and malnutrition in in such patient. These conditions are difficult for patients to tolerate , so should be avoided. Good oral hygiene will improve their quality of life , self esteem and dignity.
HOW TO CELEBRATE ORAL HEALTH DAY
- Practice good oral hygiene – brush , floss and rinse regularly with mouthwash.
- Visit your dentist regularly – to ensure that your teeth and gums are in good condition.
- Educate your friends and family about the importance of oral health.
