ORAL HEALTH CRITICAL FOR OVERALL WELL-BEING–MEDICAL EXPERTS

A dental surgeon, Doctor Chibuzo Uguru has urged Nigerians to take proper care of their oral health to safeguard the entire body system from diseases.

Dr. Uguru gave the advice while speaking  with Radio Nigeria on this year’s World Oral Health Day being

The mouth is said to be the gateway to the human system. It is also important in social interaction. The mouth is a mirror to an individual’s body and reflects his general health and well-being.

This means that a healthy mouth is very important to the over all well-being of human body and boosts individual’s confidence and acceptance in social interations. Little wonder the World Dental Federation in two thousand and seven deemed it necessary to set aside twentieth March every year as World Oral Health Day.

The day aims at raising global awareness on the prevention and control of oral diseases as well as promoting good oral health for everyone. It also aims at empowering individuals to maintain a healthy mouth at all ages.

A dental surgeon and Consultant Oral Maxofacial Surgeon, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, UNTH Ituku-Ozalla, Dr Chibuzo Uguru explained that various sicknesses are linked to poor oral hygiene.

Dr Uguru emphasized the need for proper care of the entire oral cavity especially the tooth gum, as it ccould  habour some organisms that could lead to tooth decay and loss. He further advised for at least a visit to a dentist annually for general oral examination, which according to him is affordable in public health facilities.

The theme for this year’s celebration which is ‘Say Ahh: Act on Mouth Health’ aims at motivating individuals to take charge of their own oral health by taking specific action to prevent oral disease and safeguard their overall health.

REPORT BY IFESINACHI UGWUEZE

EDITED BY CHINASA EZEONYEBUCHI