Philippines Battles Tooth Decay Epidemic: Experts Offer Crucial Oral Hygiene Advice
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A shocking 72% of Filipinos, or seven out of 10, suffer from dental caries, also known as tooth decay, according to a 2024 report by the philippine Dental Association. This alarming statistic underscores a widespread problem rooted in inadequate oral hygiene practices, including improper brushing and flossing.
The importance of regular and effective brushing and flossing cannot be overstated. These simple actions remove plaque, the sticky whitish substance that constantly forms between teeth and on the gum line. Neglecting this crucial step contributes to halitosis, or bad breath, and significantly increases the risk of tooth decay.
Mastering the Art of Brushing
Dr. Ana Beatriz Robles,DMD,of the gan advanced Osseointegration Center,emphasizes the importance of a two-minute brushing routine—”the length of a song,” she suggests. The goal is to cover all the teeth’s surfaces: The sides facing your cheek, the top sides, the sides facing your tongue, which is the most neglected side of your teeth, and, of course, the side that other people can see, the frontal area,
Dr. Robles explained, advising users to apply only light pressure.
The correct brushing motion, according to Dr. Robles, is vertical or circular, mirroring the vertical alignment of teeth. Horizontal brushing, she warns, can irritate gums and cause recession. When the gums recede upwards or away from the teeth, away from the biting surface, it reveals the area of the tooth most vulnerable to wear and tear, to abrasion,
she explained. So,that’s why when we brush,ideally,you’re going to be brushing in the same direction as the division of the teeth because the whole brushing is meant to sweep away debris from all the teeth’s surface,
she added.
Dr. diane Isabel Selvido previously suggested the modified Bass method, involving placing bristles at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and using short back-and-forth movements with gentle vibratory pressure to dislodge plaque.
electric Toothbrushes: A Convenient Solution
For those uncertain about their brushing technique, Dr. Robles recommends an electric toothbrush. All you have to do is just give it some time, hover over each tooth, and it’s gonna take care of all the motion for you,
she said. Brushing twice or thrice daily with fluoride toothpaste is advisable.
The Importance of Flossing
While the order of brushing and flossing is a matter of debate,Dr. Robles stresses that both are essential and should be performed effectively. Flossing, ideally once daily, removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gum line, areas a toothbrush can’t reach. These trapped particles can lead to bacterial growth, resulting in gingivitis, bad breath, and other gum diseases.
Various flossing methods exist, including conventional dental floss and water flossers, which Dr. Robles finds notably convenient for those with braces or bridges.Though, she cautions that water flosser is effective in removing soft plaque, but you cannot expect it to remove the hardened tartar.
For hardened tartar, professional cleaning is necessary. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings twice a year are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health.
The high prevalence of tooth decay in the Philippines underscores the critical need for improved oral hygiene practices. By following these expert recommendations, Filipinos can significantly reduce their risk of dental problems and maintain healthy smiles.
Headline: “conquering the tooth Decay Epidemic in the Philippines: Expert Strategies for Lifelong Oral Health”
Senior Editor: Welcome to World Today News! Recently published reports have revealed a staggering 72% of Filipinos suffer from dental caries or tooth decay. What can we learn from this epidemic, and how can we tackle it effectively?
Oral Health Expert: Thank you for having me. This shocking statistic certainly serves as a wake-up call about the profound impact oral hygiene has on our lives. Poor oral care practices, like improper brushing and flossing, are at the core of this issue. By addressing the fundamentals of oral health maintenance, we can combat tooth decay effectively. One critical aspect is regular and correct brushing and flossing habits, which are surprisingly overlooked despite their importance in removing plaque—the primary culprit behind tooth decay and halitosis.
Senior Editor: speaking of brushing, many struggle with achieving the right technique. Could you elaborate on how to perfect this essential routine?
oral Health Expert: Absolutely. Doctor Ana Beatriz Robles emphasizes a simple yet effective approach: visualize your brushing routine as the length of a song, lasting about two minutes. It’s crucial to cover all areas of your teeth—those facing your cheek, the biting surfaces, the sides reaching your tongue, and the outer surfaces visible to others. The ideal brushing motion is vertical or circular,aligning with the alignment of your teeth. Avoid horizontal strokes as these can lead to gum irritation and recession, exposing areas prone to wear. practicing these techniques diligently can significantly enhance your dental hygiene routine. For those seeking more guidance, electric toothbrushes are beneficial as they automate the motion, ensuring thorough cleaning.
Key Takeaways for Effective Brushing:
- Duration: Brush for two minutes.
- Coverage: Address all surfaces of the teeth.
- Motion: Use vertical or circular motions.
- Tool: Consider an electric toothbrush for consistent technique.
Senior Editor: Can you provide insight into the role of flossing in preventing tooth decay and maintaining overall oral health?
Oral Health expert: Certainly. While there is some debate regarding whether to brush or floss first, both are undeniably essential. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush can’t reach, especially between teeth and below the gum line. This reduces bacterial growth, mitigating risks of gingivitis, bad breath, and severe gum diseases. For ease of use,water flossers are quiet effective,especially for individuals with braces or bridges. However, they don’t remove hardened tartar—this requires professional dental cleaning. Incorporating daily flossing into your oral care routine and attending regular dental checkups can therefore have profound benefits for oral health.
Flossing Recommendations:
- Frequency: Floss daily.
- Method: traditional or water flossers, depending on personal needs.
- Professional Care: Attend bi-annual dental cleanings.
Senior Editor: In light of these insights,what are your top recommendations for Filipinos to improve their oral health practices and reduce the prevalence of dental issues?
Oral Health Expert: To effectively reduce tooth decay,Filipinos should adhere to a extensive oral care regimen. This includes:
- Brushing Right: Follow the correct brushing technique and duration to remove plaque effectively.
- Incorporate flossing: Make flossing an infallible component of daily oral care.
- Use Fluoride toothpaste: Consider its plaque-fighting benefits.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule bi-annual visits for professional cleanings and checkups.
By embracing these practices and being proactive about oral health, individuals can greatly diminish their risk of dental problems and maintain healthier smiles.
Final Thoughts: The widespread issue of tooth decay highlights the urgent need for improved oral hygiene education and practices in the Philippines. By adopting these expert recommendations, Filipinos can not onyl enhance their oral health but also improve their quality of life. We invite you to join the discussion—share your experiences and tips for maintaining optimal oral health in the comments below or on social media. Let’s work together to build healthier, happier smiles!