Abuja school sensitises students to importance of oral hygiene

AN Islamic model school in Abuja, Al-Mufeedah International Academy (AIA), has urged its students to make their oral hygiene a priority to guard against tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

A dentist, Mr Peter David, gave the advice while speaking on the topic ‘Healthy Smiles, Happy Lives’ as part of activities marking the school’s “Oral Week.”

According to David from Kwali General Hospital, Abuja, regular brushing of the teeth at least twice daily not only promotes good oral health but frees the mouth of all forms of infections.

“Oral health is a state of being free from mouth and facial pain, discomfort and disease or infection and ability to eat, speak and socialise without feeling self-conscious about one’s oral health.

“And to promote good oral health, it is important to brush at least twice in a day, in the morning and the last thing in the night before retiring to bed. It is equally important to limit intake of sugary and acidic food and drinks and visit dentists for check-up at least every six months.

“Not taking good or proper care of one’s teeth can lead to decay, gum disease, tooth loss, bad breath, tooth sensitivity and oral cancer,” he said.

He urged parents to establish early dental routine and encourage good oral habits in their children by monitoring their sugar intake.

The chairman of the school, Dr Junaid Ajao, thanked the guest lecturer, saying the importance of oral health could not be overemphasised.

The director of the school, Hajiya Kafayat Olaitan Akanji, said besides having a beautiful smile, good oral health helps in boosting self-esteem and overall well-being of individuals.

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