Good oral health is an investment

LIFESTYLE NEWS - Many people don’t realize the extent to which their oral health is linked to their overall physical health, and that dental hygiene is about so much more than pearly white teeth and fresh breath.

Poor dental health increases the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream, which can cause an infection and affect certain areas of the heart.

Gum disease (periodontitis) which affects an estimated 10% of the global population, is associated with an increased risk of developing heart diseases.

In fact, poor oral health can contribute to endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves as well as cardiovascular disease.

The body's natural defences along with good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, work to keep bacteria under control.

Without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Gum disease in pregnant women has also been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Certain bacteria in your mouth can also be drawn into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.

The bottom line is that your oral health is more important than many may realize.

This World Oral Health Day, the South African Dental Association (SADA) wants to reiterate the importance of good oral health.

An unhealthy mouth can severely impact your quality of life by affecting not only your physical wellbeing but also your emotional, social and mental health.

Poor oral health can negatively affect a person’s self-image and emotional well-being. This includes feeling embarrassed about their teeth and mouth which can lead to missing school or work and result in social withdrawal and isolation.

Over 90% of the world’s population will suffer from some form of dental disease in their lifetime.

The good news is that most oral health conditions are preventable and can be treated to avoid further progression.

This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily and scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding tobacco use can also aid good dental hygiene.

World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is celebrated annually to spread educational messages about good oral hygiene practices and how to prevent and control oral disease.

WOHD champions the prevention and early detection of oral health issues and aims to raise the profile of oral health on a global scale. Educating people about the link between oral health and systemic health has also become a priority.

Unfortunately, widespread disparities do exist when it comes to the access and uptake of oral health services in South Africa and globally.

SADA supports awareness initiatives and runs programmes at an outreach level primarily to school children to educate our youth about the importance of good oral hygiene.

In most local community health centres (CHC), members of communities can access oral health services, so we urge community members to visit these CHCs so that you can get your oral health issues treated in time.

These are free services that are offered by the by the Department of Health.

‘Be Proud of your Mouth’ is the theme of World Oral Health Day 2022 for the second year running, and SADA is calling on all South Africans to look after their oral health for their happiness and wellbeing.

For more information or to find a dentist in your area, go to https://www.sada.co.za/

Local community health centres (CHC), members of communities can access oral health services.