Nine out of ten people around the world are at risk of having some kind of oral disease, from caries to gum disease to oral cancer, warns the World Health Organization , which reminds that prevention begins in childhood and yet, even in developed countries, between 60% and 90% of children of school age have cavities .
Experts warns that “having healthy teeth, gums and mouths are aspects of health that people often take for granted until they no longer have them.” Experts say it is a “regrettable fact” because good habits and regular check-ups could prevent most oral health problems, “which is easier to happen if people know the importance of oral health”, admits.
Tobacco and alcohol
One of the most serious forms of this disease is mouth cancer, whose most important risk factors are the consumption of tobacco or alcohol and the human papillomavirus (HPV). Oral health professionals can play a key role in early detection by examining their patients for signs of oral cancer at check-ups. In both North and South America, the burden of this type of disease has decreased significantly since 1980, largely thanks to public health interventions such as the use of fluoride in salt and water, or the use of technologies Simple and effective in oral health care.
To achieve this evolution, the WHO reminds that oral diseases can be prevented through healthy habits, such as brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and fluoride mouthwash every day, Make regular revisions for both children and adults and avoid carbonated beverages, artificial juices, energy drinks, sweets and sweets, junk food and tobacco and alcohol.