(By Dr. Joseph D. Lim and Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI)
FEBRUARY, a Valentine month, is for lovers.
It is a month for precious smiles and kisses that lovers greet each other with.
It’s National Oral Health Month as well in recognition of the importance of good oral health to your kiss and your smile.
Chocolates are great Valentine gifts (just remember to brush your teeth). Another great gift is to take care and preserve your oral health so your smiles and kisses will always be perfect like true love.
Today, the primary issues facing oral health in the country is dental caries or tooth decay, says Dr. Ma. Editha Micu-Ramos, Chairperson of the Philippine Dental Association for this year’s World Health Day. Tooth decay affects nearly half or 45 percent of the population, she says.
There’s a high risk of tooth decay among those with dry mouth, Dr. Ramos continues.
Another major oral health concern is periodontitis or gum disease which causes gum inflammation leading to the loss of teeth.
Loss of teeth is easily preventable with simple and easy things to avoid, such as opening sachets with your teeth or always having sweet, sugared drinks, says Dr. Ramos.
“Kaya naman, sa temang ‘Brushing ang Key sa Ngiping Healthy,’ hinihikayat ang lahat na magsepilyo ng dalawang beses sa isang araw at huwag agad magmumog pagkatapos mag-toothbrush,” she says.
Dr. Ramos also calls attention to the right amount of fluoride content in toothpaste. For children 3 years old and below, toothpaste should have 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride. The fluoride content must be 1,500 ppm for those 4 years and above.
The family should be the first line of defense against oral health challenges, she says.
The Philippine Dental Association provides fee dental services every Monday and Tuesday at its office in Makati (PDA Bldg., Ayala Avenue, Cor. Kamagong St., San Antonio Village).
Oral Health Month raises awareness about the importance of preventive dental care.
Here’s a few reminders from Dr. Mark Jason Mina, Regional Oral Health Manager of the Department of Health’s Ilocos Center for Health Development.
In the first place, there is an important connection between oral health and overall well-being, he points out. “Oral health is crucial because it’s the first step in digestion,” he explains.
Properly chewed food, for example, allows for better nutrient absorption. Conversely, poor oral health can lead to indigestion and digestive problems.
A balanced diet is also important in maintaining oral health, Dr. Mina says. “Nutritious food choices provide essential nutrients for healthy teeth, gums and mouth, contributing to overall well-being.”
Individuals who smoke, vape or consume alcohol are more likely to experience poor oral health, which can lead to more serious health issues, he says.
To maintain good oral health, he recommends regular dental checkups, proper brushing techniques and flossing.
“Napakadali lang naman na alagaan ang oral health. Visit lagi ng dentist and brush after eating so mape-prevent natin ‘yong mga ‘yon,” Dr. Mina reminds the public.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com/PN
