March is World Oral Health Month, where people are encouraged to pay attention to their dental care.The NHC in Honeydew, along with their three centres across Johannesburg, held an Oral Awareness Day on 16 March. ”It is amazing how little people think about their teeth.The oral hygiene awareness day is an annual event because it is a means of reaching out to people and helping them understand the importance of good oral health as well as informing the public on the correct oral products to use,” said dental representative for Glaxo Smith Kline South Africa (GSK) Faith Mothokoa.
Sensodyne offered free sensitivity tests at NHC. Some chilled water was given to people wanting to test the sensitivity of their teeth and if they felt some pain, they were advised what they could do to help stop the sensitivity.
Mothokoa advises people with sensitive teeth to do the following:
• Brush twice a day
• Check your diet and avoid too much acidic and fizzy drinks
• Brushing technique is important. Brush in a circular movement to avoid removing the enamel of your teeth.
According to Dr Lakeshni Lall at NHC Honeydew, risk factors for oral disease include smoking, drinking, an unhealthy diet and failure to maintain proper oral hygiene. ”Studies show there is a close link between periodontal disease or advance gum disease and heart dieases. Some people may not find it easy to reduce or stop their tobacco and alcohol use, but maintaining a good daily oral hygiene routine is a start,” added Dr Lall.
Centre Manager for NHC Honeydew Jackie Bothma added that for NHC raising awareness is a definite priority. ”Our aim is to raise awareness to everyone and host every health awareness day possible because information is key,” said Bothma.
Details:www.sensodyne.co.za
