A study that was conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO), revealed that oral diseases are the most common chronic diseases around the globe. In the published article, WHO revealed that even though there have been considerable improvements in oral care and the prevention of oral diseases, the problem still persists. Oral disease is especially problematic in areas that are underprivileged.
WHO recognises the fact the oral care should be an essential part of general health. This means that oral diseases and oral conditions could have a wider impact on the general health and wellbeing of the population.
WHO also states that oral care and general health have common risk factors. These include poor diets and nutrition, and because of this WHO suggests that oral disease should be included in the disease prevention programmes.
Dental care is a big public health problem in high-income countries and statistics show that 60% to 90% of school going children and adults suffer with oral disease. It was once again established that sugar and the intake thereof plays a major role in oral disease.
It is recommended that the sugar intake should be monitored, and be brought down to minimum intake.
Here are some facts you should know about oral hygiene and your health
Warning signs you must look for
Anaemia
– It is condition when there is a shortage of red cells in the blood
– The symptoms for Anaemia is a tongue that is red, smooth and painful
Diabetes
If you are suffering from a dry mouth or increased gum disease, you might have uncontrolled diabetes.
Crohn’s Disease
Symptoms for this disease are Halitosis, recurring mouth ulcers, inflamed and swollen gums and the thickening of the mouths lining (oral mucosa). If you suffer from these symptoms you might have Crohn’s disease.
What is the correct oral hygiene procedure to follow
Brush, rinse and floss twice a day with alcohol free products. Remember to brush your teeth for at least two minutes long.
Make sure that you are using a soft bristled toothbrush.
Try to brush your gums using circular movements and not horizontal or vertical strokes
Use a toothpaste containing fluoride, and you need only use a pea sized amount
Once you have finished brushing, try to wait at least 10 minutes before rinsing your mouth. This allows the fluoride to be absorbed into the tooth’s enamel. You can then rinse your mouth and thereafter use an alcohol free mouth wash.
Try not to eat or drink at least 30 minutes after brushing your teeth.
Do not neglect to brush your tongue and pallet
Try chewing on gum that contains xylitol and that is sugar free. Xylitol will help to strengthen your tooth’s enamel.