The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Edo branch, has called for the inclusion of oral health education in the schools’ curricula.
The NMA Chairman of the branch, Dr Valentine Omoifo, made the call on Wednesday at the 2019 World Oral Health Day celebration in Benin.
The theme of the celebrations is: ”say Ahh, Act on Mouth Health”.
He said as a result of its importance, Oral Healthcare, should be made a compulsory subject in both primary and secondary schools.
Omoifo also called for training of medical personnel in order to fit into the pyramid of modern medical practice.
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In his welcome address, Dr Anthony Osaguona, Edo State Chairman of the Nigerian Dental Association, said tooth loss should not be accepted as a natural cause of ageing.
According to him, good oral hygiene habit and practice, as well as regular dental check-ups can help people to ensure a healthy mouth and prevent risk factors.
Osaguona appealed to the state government to create a directorate of Dental services in line with the Federal Ministry of Health guideline.
He stressed the need to coordinate dental services and prevent oral health diseases in Nigeria in line with the Mini-mental Scientific Convention in Japan.
Also, Mr Ukachi Nnawuihi delivered the talk on oral healthcare on the occasion, which featured road walk and free dental check-up.
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