Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sade Oguntola
Published on 2024-02-29 06:00:01
Dr. Olufemi Olagundoye, an expert in gum diseases, emphasized the importance of giving prompt attention to teeth that are mobile and gum diseases for overall good health. Speaking at the fourth scientific conference and biennial general meeting of the Periodontologists’ Association of Nigeria (PAN) at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile Ife, Osun State, Dr. Olagundoye, a senior lecturer at the Lagos State University College of Medicine, pointed out the significant link between poor oral care and various diseases in the body, including heart disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disease, and poor pregnancy outcomes like preterm and low birth weight babies.
He highlighted that poor dental health can lead to 57 different diseases in the body, which many people are unaware of. For instance, there is an association between poor dental health and coronary heart disease, regardless of other factors such as age, cholesterol levels, hypertension, and smoking. Dr. Olagundoye also mentioned the impact of poor oral health on diabetes control and pregnancy outcomes, stressing the necessity of maintaining good oral hygiene for overall well-being.
He advised against unnecessary tooth removal, citing advancements in dental technology that allow for salvaging teeth with issues like mobility or decay. Instead of automatically extracting a problematic tooth, certain treatment techniques like guided tissue regeneration can help stabilize and save the tooth. Dr. Olagundoye encouraged seeking the opinion of a periodontologist before opting for tooth removal, as many teeth that are extracted may not need to be if proper treatment is administered.
Furthermore, Professor Beatrice Ogunba, a public health nutrition expert, emphasized the importance of good nutrition and adequate water intake for oral health. She recommended a diet low in sugar but high in fiber, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids to reduce the risk of gum diseases. Professor Ogunba stressed the need for dietary counseling as part of the care for individuals with gum diseases to promote overall oral health.
Dr. Solomon Nwhator, the president of PAN, highlighted the importance of educating patients about the type of toothpaste to use, as it can impact dental health. He mentioned that there are 70 practicing periodontologists in Nigeria and encouraged them to engage in discussions about oral care products to further benefit their patients.
In conclusion, the presentations at the PAN conference underscored the critical role of timely attention to dental health in preventing a myriad of systemic diseases and promoting overall well-being. With the advancements in dental technology and the emphasis on good nutrition, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain healthy teeth and gums, ultimately contributing to better overall health outcomes.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
