Western dietary habits
is causing oral diseases, particularly among school children.1
Proactive and preventive
measures can help achieve good oral health and control infections.
To safeguard your oral health, practice these at home:
Proper cleaning of the mouth: The ideal frequency for brushing is twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste, and flossing at least once daily.1,2
Early detection of the disease: Regular checkups with a dentist, typically once a year, are essential to catch and address any emerging issues.2
Increase Resistance of Teeth: By consuming fluoride-rich foods and using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. 2
Fight Plaque and bacteria: Proper brushing, using interdental cleaning aids, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses (preferably those containing Povidone Iodine) can help fight oral bacteria.2
Modify Diet: Reduce refined carbohydrate intake, avoid sticky foods, and incorporate caries-protective foods like cheese, nuts, and raw vegetables.1,2
Additionally, request these in-office preventive measures to your dentist-
Protective coating application (pit and fissure sealants) on the chewing surfaces of teeth.2
Fluoride varnish applications.2
Early-stage caries treatment.2
Here Are Some Additional Tips for particular conditions:
If you have oral wounds, use Povidone Iodine mouth rinse to prevent infection.3
If you have diabetes, maintain sugar levels, as it can lower your risk for complications, including gum disease. 4
If you are pregnant, maintain good oral hygiene and do not skip dental appointments.5
If your medication causes dry mouth, consult your doctor for an alternative medication that doesn't have this side effect. 4
If dry mouth is unavoidable, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.4
Seek medical or dental advice if you experience sudden changes in taste and smell.4
If you're a caregiver, assist older individuals in brushing and flossing their teeth if they cannot perform these tasks independently.4
Remember, oral health is integral to your overall well-being, so make it a priority.
References-
1. Al-Qahtani SM, Razak PA, Khan SD. Knowledge and Practice of Preventive Measures for Oral Health Care among Male Intermediate Schoolchildren in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Jan 21;17(3):703. Doi: 10.3390/ijerph17030703. PMID: 31973187; PMCID: PMC7038016.
2. Shah N. Oral and dental diseases: Causes, prevention and treatment strategies. NCMH Background Papers•Burden of Disease in India.
3. Amtha R, Kanagalingam J. Povidone-iodine in dental and oral health: a narrative review. J Int Oral Health 2020;12:407-12.
4. CDC[Internet]. Oral Health Tips. Cited on: 12 October 2023. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/tips.html
5. Healthline[Internet]. Tips for Preventing Oral Health Problems; updated on: 03 December 2015; Cited on: 09 October 2023. Available from:https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-oral-health-prevention
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