Dear Editor,
Oral diseases are among the most common Noncommunicable diseases (NCD’s) worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.5 billion people. While the global burden of oral health conditions is growing, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, the overall burden of oral health conditions on services is likely to keep increasing because of population growth and aging.
Oral health is the state of the mouth, teeth and orofacial structures that enables individuals to perform essential functions such as eating, breathing and speaking, and encompasses psychosocial dimensions such as self-confidence, well-being and the ability to socialize and work without pain, discomfort and embarrassment. Oral health varies over the life course from early life to old age, is integral to general health and supports individuals in participating in society and achieving their potential.
Oral diseases disproportionately affect the most vulnerable and disadvantaged populations. People of low socioeconomic status carry a higher burden of oral diseases and this association remains across the life course, from early childhood to older age, and regardless of the country’s overall income level.
In terms of oral health, Haiti has the lowest dentists to population ratio (0.12 dentists per 10,000) in the Western Hemisphere. Cuba on the other hand reported the highest density in the region at 18.42 dentists per 10,000 population. The dentist-to-population ratio in Jamaica is significantly lower than recommended international standards, with estimates ranging from 1:17,000 to 1:20,000, creating a critical shortage of dental professionals. This contrasts sharply with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 1:7,500 for developing countries.
Each year the international community observes World Oral Health Day March 20.The day is set aside to raise global awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene and preventive dental care. We must be reminded that oral health is a key indicator of overall health, well-being and quality of life.
This year’s theme is A Happy Mouth Is A Happy Life”. Among the recommended good practices for maintaining good oral health are brushing twice daily. Brush Your Tongue: Gently clean your tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath. Floss Once Daily: Use dental floss to clean between teeth and under the gum line where a toothbrush cannot reach. Limit your intake of sugary foods.
Replace Your Toothbrush: Change your toothbrush or brush head every 3–4 months or when the bristles become worn. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleaning and early detection of dental issues. All of the above tips can help maintain strong teeth and healthy gums while preventing common teeth problems.
How Oral Health Affects Your Heart, Diabetes, and More
Poor oral health, especially gum disease, can influence several systemic health conditions due to bacteria and inflammation spreading from the mouth. Heart Health: Bacteria from gum infections may enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation in the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and severe gum infections can make blood sugar levels harder to control. Respiratory Health: Oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory infections.
Pregnancy Outcomes: Poor oral health during pregnancy has been linked to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Immune System Impact: Chronic oral infections may contribute to ongoing inflammation and affect the body’s ability to fight infections.
Healthy Diet For Better Oral Health
We must be intentional in maintaining good oral health. There is an urgent need for school dental nurses to be integrated in global education systems to address basic restorative dental care and provide dental education. Alongside good oral hygiene and regular dental care, diet also matters. It is important that we follow a balanced, low-sugar diet for oral health.
Low/no calorie sweeteners are “tooth-friendly” ingredients which are not fermented by oral bacteria and, therefore, do not contribute to dental caries. Your diet plays an important role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. A balanced diet with calcium-rich foods such as milk, yoghurt, cheese, leafy greens, and nuts helps strengthen tooth enamel.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles, while drinking plenty of water supports oral cleanliness. At the same time, limiting sugary snacks, sticky foods, and acidic drinks can help prevent enamel erosion and cavities. Making healthy dietary choices along with good oral hygiene supports strong teeth and healthy gums.
Happy World Oral Health Day.