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Celebrating World Oral Health Day 2021

  • March 15, 2021
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Our mouth is a mirror to our body and reflects our well-being and level of wellness. Every day is an important day to take care of oral health. Yes, it's time to celebrate World Oral Health Day (WOHD), which is on the 20th of March. It is a day to promote the importance of looking after oral hygiene to everyone, elder and young. Oral hygiene means preventive care for the whole mouth - the teeth, tongue, cheeks and gums. For the next three years, the theme is "Be Proud of Your Mouth".

According to a 2012 World Health Organization fact sheet on oral health, "Oral health is essential to general health and quality of life. It is a state of being free from mouth and facial pain, oral and throat cancer, oral infection and sores, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and other diseases and disorders that limit an individual's capacity in biting, chewing, smiling, speaking, and psychosocial wellbeing."

A global problem

As per research, 90% of the world's population are affected by oral diseases in their lifetime. But many of which can be prevented with proper oral care.

Tooth decay affects almost every adult and around 60% of children around the world. However, there is a simple straightforward solution, simply brushing teeth twice daily. Brushing properly is the single most beneficial action for improving people's oral health. The most prevalent and consequential oral diseases globally are dental caries (tooth decay), periodontal disease, tooth loss, and cancers of the lips and oral cavity.

Lifestyle factors that contribute to bad oral, and often physical health includes:

  • Cigarette smoking
  • Less or frequent tooth brushing
  • A diet that is rich in sugar
  • Acidic drinks
  • Use of recreational drugs and alcohol

A simple routine can help prevent dental problems:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes
  • Use a toothbrush that has soft bristles
  • Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months
  • Cleaning between the teeth
  • Rinse your mouth after every meal or snacks
  • Floss at least once a day
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet – the one low in sugar
  • Regular dental check-up

Remember your tongue.

Yes, when we say oral care it is not only teeth but also our tongue. Indeed, the tongue forms the most essential part of overall oral health. Because it helps us talk, swallow, and do much more. While plaque is best known for building upon the surface of our teeth, it can build upon our tongue too. It can lead to bad breath, infection, and other health issues, so it's important to get rid of it. Simply brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth to keep plaque out of play.

When it comes to dental care, adopt good oral hygiene habits. It's never too early or too late to start looking after your mouth; your body will thank you.