[ Home ] [ Speeches & statements ]

12 August 2008

August is Oral Health Month which is celebrated annually to increase awareness regarding oral health. Free State Department of Health will host the National Oral Health Congress on 14 August 2008, at Thaba Nchu in the Protea Black Mountain Hotel. The congress will start at 08h45.

Most oral diseases are not life threatening but affect almost every individual during his or her lifetime, resulting in pain and discomfort, expenditure on treatment, loss of school days, productivity and work hours and some degree of social stigma. Oral conditions are important public health concerns because of their prevalence, their severity or public demand for services because of their impact on individuals and society.

Basic health and social services are a human right and oral health is a significant component thereof.

The two major diseases in the mouth are: tooth decay (holes in the teeth) and gum disease (bleeding gums).

To prevent this:
* One should brush ones teeth with a small, soft toothbrush twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste.
* Floss your teeth once a day. Brushing should be done in small circular movements, concentrating on the gum line. Also brush the tongue.
* The toothbrush has to be replaced every three months.
* Fizzy cold drinks and sweets should be minimized in the diet.
* Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Free screenings are done at oral health clinics throughout the province. It is important to visit the dentist every six months, do not only visit the dentist when you have toothache.

Enquiries:
Tsholofelo Moreosele
Tel: 051 408 1277
Fax: 051 408 1579
Cell: 073 26 71717
E-mail: moreoset@fshealth.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Health, Free State Provincial Government
12 August 2008
Source: Free State Provincial Government (http://www.fs.gov.za)