Did you know that tooth decay and gum diseases are the two most common oral health problems affecting Filipinos? According to National Monitoring and Evaluation Dental Survey conducted in 2011, there are 87.4 % Filipinos suffering from tooth decay while 48.3 % has gum disease.

Dental caries or tooth decay is the breakdown of tooth enamel caused by bacteria. The bacteria present in the mouth converts the free sugars to acids causing tooth decay. On the other hand, periodontal disease or gum disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. Both problems are preventable by good oral hygiene. Aside from regular and proper brushing of teeth, regular consultation with dentist for early diagnosis and preventive care, and avoidance of tobacco smoking are also important.

Proper nutrition is a component of good oral health as well. Having a well-balanced diet, limiting intake of sugar-rich foods, and reducing alcohol intake helps in achieving a good oral health. 

In the country, the Department of Health offers different dental services for different age groups through their Oral Health Program. These can be availed through the rural health units, urban health centers, and districts and city/provincial hospitals. In addition, Department of Education offers oral health services to school children during school health days available in their school health clinics.

Oral Health is essential to overall health and well-being. It improves person’s ability to speak, eat, smile, and make facial expressions to show feelings and emotion. It also helps in building one’s confidence to socialize and improve quality of life.

By the virtue of Proclamation No. 559 s. 2004, the country celebrates National Oral Health Month every February to create dental health consciousness among the people.

(BLVMEstrella)

References:

Department of Health Philippines. (n.d.). Oral Health Program. Accessed from: https://doh.gov.ph/oral-health-program

Official Gazette of the Philippines (2004). Proclamation No. 559 s. 2004. Accessed from: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2004/02/24/proclamation-no-559-s-2004/

Office of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. (2020). Oral Health. Accessed from: https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/oral-health

World Health Organization. (2020). Oral Health. Accessed from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health