As the world marks the 2024 Oral Health Day, a Consultant Paediatric Dentist, Dr Adeola Williams, has advised Nigerians to avoid much consumption of sugary foods.
Williams, who works at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, gave the advice in an interview on Wednesday.
She spoke on the sidelines of the 2024 World Oral Health Day celebration on Wednesday in Ibadan.
The 2024 World Oral Health Day had the theme, A Happy Mouth is a Happy Body.
The consultant advised Nigerians to replace sugary foods with fruits and vegetables.
According to the doctor, fruits and vegetables are nutritious and will promote oral and general health.
“People should take proper care of their mouths,” she said.
Williams recommended that teeth should be brushed twice daily.
“There is need to brush in the morning and at night, with a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
“Visit the dentist at least two times in a year even if you don’t have any complaint; this will enable early detection of oral diseases.
“Also, when you have any pain or discomfort in the mouth, visit a dentist,” Williams urged.
NAN reports that the Nigerian Dental Association, Oyo State Chapter, led by Dr Fechi Nkwocha began a weeklong activities since Monday to celebrate the 2024 Health Health Day.
The activities include dental market outreaches, media engagements and an interschool debate.
At the end of the debate on Wednesday, Ikolaba High School, Ibadan, emerged the winner, and the contestants went home with cash gifts.
World Oral Health Day is observed on March 20 every year.
It is aims to help to reduce the burden of oral diseases which affect individuals as well as the health systems and economies. (NAN)
