التوعية بالصحة الفموية

Course Information

• Course Title: HEALTH EDUCATION
• Course Code: HWDA 102
• Instructor: Dr. Rahul N Gaikwad
• Email: [email protected]

Lecture 2: Oral Health and Disease Prevention

• Lecture content focuses on understanding common oral diseases and conditions, promoting preventive dental care practices, and educating patients on oral hygiene.

Introduction

• Oral diseases impact millions globally, affecting overall health.
• Understanding these diseases aids in prevention and management.

Common Oral Diseases and Conditions

• Dental Caries (Cavities): The most prevalent chronic oral disease. Bacteria convert sugars into acids which erode tooth enamel.
• Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Caused often by poor oral hygiene, inflammation and infection of the gums, leading to possible tooth loss. Two important stages are Gingivitis and Periodontitis.
• Oral Cancer: Risk factors include smoking, alcohol use, and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection. Regular screening is important for early detection. Symptoms include persistent sores, lumps, or pain.

Common Oral Diseases and Conditions (cont.)

• Tooth Sensitivity: Discomfort caused by enamel erosion or gum recession when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Halitosis (Bad Breath): Often a result of poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or dry mouth. Can also be linked to certain systemic conditions such as diabetes.

Main Causes of Oral Problems

• Bacteria accumulation in the mouth.
• Food with strong smells.
• Smoking
• Tonsillitis
• Sinus infections
• Digestive disorders
• Lung disease
• Constipation

Other Conditions

• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
• Oral thrush (fungal infection)

Preventive Dental Care Practices

• Proper Brushing and Flossing: Twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, and daily flossing help remove plaque and prevent decay and gum disease. Proper brushing techniques are essential.
• Regular Dental Visits: Essential for early detection and prevention of cavities and gum disease. Dental checkups and cleanings should be done regularly.
• Dietary Changes: Limiting sugary and acidic foods helps reduce tooth decay risk. Drinking water (especially fluoridated water) after eating helps remove food particles and bacteria.
• Cessation of Tobacco and Alcohol Use: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting these habits is critical.

Patient Education on Oral Hygiene

• Proper Brushing Technique: Proper brushing techniques are important, including small circular motions and covering all surfaces of the teeth. Using soft bristle toothbrushes helps avoid enamel damage.
• Flossing and Interdental Cleaning: Cleaning between teeth with floss or interdental brushes removes plaque that toothbrushes miss, helping to prevent gum disease.
• The Role of Fluoride: Fluoride can strengthen enamel and help reverse early decay. Using fluoride toothpaste and seeking fluoride treatments from dental professionals is important.
• The Importance of Routine Checkups: Regular dental checkups help in early detection of problems to reduce need for extensive treatment. Visits should be every six months, or as recommended.
• Dietary Advice: Patients should be counseled to reduce sugar intake and adopt a balanced diet to improve oral and overall health. Drinking water after meals can help clear away food particles and bacteria.
• Managing Dental Anxiety: Dental anxiety is common and can be addressed through education, sedation, and positive reinforcement.

The Role of Technology in Oral Care

• New advancements in electric toothbrushes with oscillating heads and smart toothbrushes with sensors significantly improve plaque removal.

Conclusion

• Oral health is essential for overall well-being.
• Understanding conditions, adopting preventive practices, and maintaining patient education are important in reducing oral health issues and working together between dental professionals and patients.