Health workers at Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center in Ilocos Norte are stepping up efforts to encourage Filipinos to see oral hygiene as a key part of lifelong health. This push comes as part of National Oral Health Month, aiming to change the habit of only visiting a dentist when pain becomes intolerable.
Janine G. Blanco, a dental hygienist at the hospital, explained that maintaining good oral health means taking care of not just the teeth but also the gums, tongue, and the roof of the mouth. She stressed that poor oral hygiene can lead to a range of problems. These include tooth decay, bad breath, gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, mouth sores, tooth erosion, and even oral cancer. Many of these issues begin with neglecting simple hygiene practices.
Blanco outlined five essential habits to protect oral health. These are brushing, flossing, eating a balanced diet, rinsing with mouthwash, and having regular dental check-ups. She recommends brushing the teeth, gums, and tongue twice each day for two minutes using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. She also advised waiting at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing to avoid harming tooth enamel.
Flossing is important to get rid of food and plaque that a toothbrush might miss. If plaque is not removed, it can cause gum problems and lead to more serious dental diseases. Eating too much sugary or acidic food can also damage teeth, so a healthy diet is important. Rinsing with mouthwash helps cut down the bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of disease further.
Blanco stressed the importance of visiting the dentist every six months, not just when pain appears. Regular check-ups help find issues early, making them easier to treat. To make dental care more available, the hospital has community programs like free dental check-ups for seniors aged 60 and over. In addition to free checks, the hospital offers treatments, extractions, and advanced dental surgeries. These efforts all aim to help people take charge of their oral health early, with the goal that a healthy mouth leads to a healthier life overall.
Tags: bad breathdental carediseasegingivitisperiodontitis