Oral health encompasses many aspects, intricately linked to emotional well-being, social happiness, mental health, and overall physical health. Oral diseases can cause significant suffering, but thankfully, most are largely preventable and treatable in their early stages.

A healthy mouth is crucial for overall health and well-being. Maintaining good oral health is achievable through individual awareness of risk factors and proactive disease prevention.

What are some good oral hygiene habits?

1. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Brushing helps remove food particles and plaque, which if left unchecked, can lead to cavities and gum disease.

2. Brush thoroughly. Use a manual or electric toothbrush to clean the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.

3. Use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride plays a key role in preventing cavities.

4. Don't rinse immediately after brushing. Rinsing with water right after brushing washes away the fluoride before it has a chance to work.

5. It is generally recommended to replace your toothbrush every two to three months and to store it in a dry place.

6. Use floss at least once a day. Floss and interdental brushes help clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth. Regular cleaning helps remove food particles and reduce gum disease and bad breath by removing plaque from around the gum line.

When unable to brush immediately, use fluoride mouthwash or chew sugar-free gum after meals and snacks to maintain oral hygiene.

What are the risk factors for oral diseases?

1. Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene has long-term effects on oral, mental, and physical health. For example, cavities can cause discomfort, pain, and social isolation. Untreated gum inflammation can eventually lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other serious illnesses.

2. Unhealthy diet - high sugar: Adults should consume no more than six teaspoons of sugar per day; children should consume no more than three teaspoons. Excessive sugar intake from snacks, processed foods, and soft drinks is a major risk factor for oral diseases. Soft drinks include any beverage with added sugar, such as soda, juice, sugary instant drinks, sports and energy drinks, etc.

3. Smoking: Tobacco is one of the biggest public health threats in the world today and the leading cause of preventable deaths globally. No form of tobacco is safe. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer, and can also cause tooth staining, bad breath, premature tooth loss, and loss of taste and smell.

4. Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption is strongly associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including oral, laryngeal, pharyngeal, and esophageal cancers. In addition, most alcoholic beverages are acidic and high in sugar, which can erode teeth and lead to cavities.

5. Inadequate protection: When participating in contact sports and commuting by bicycle or motorcycle, please use protective gear such as mouthguards to reduce the risk of injury.

In summary, maintaining good oral health habits and regular dental check-ups are key to preventing oral diseases and keeping your mouth healthy.