Champion Dental Clinic
The majority of oral health issues can be prevented and effectively treated in the early stages. This article will provide you with an overview of global oral health through a report from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The global status of oral health
The World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Oral Health Status Report (2022) estimates that nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases. Middle-income countries are home to three out of four affected people. Globally, an estimated 2 billion people have permanent tooth decay, and 514 million children have baby tooth decay.
The prevalence of oral diseases continues to increase worldwide, with the increasing pace of urbanization and changes in living conditions. This is mainly due to inadequate exposure to fluoride (in oral care products such as toothpaste) and the availability and strong marketing of high-sugar foods, which leads to increasing consumption. These products contribute to the prevalence of oral diseases and other non-communicable diseases. In some places, access to community oral health care services is limited.
Understanding Common Dental Conditions
Tooth decay
Tooth decay occurs when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and converts the sugars found in food and drink into acid, which over time breaks down the tooth. Failure to remove plaque by brushing can lead to cavities, pain, and sometimes tooth loss and infection.
Gum disease
Gum disease affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It can cause symptoms such as bleeding or swollen gums (gingivitis), pain, and sometimes bad breath.
These serious dental health issues are estimated to affect around 19% of the adult population worldwide, accounting for over one billion cases globally. Poor oral hygiene and tobacco use are the main causes of gum disease.
Tooth loss
Tooth loss is mainly caused by advanced cavities and severe gum disease, but can also result from trauma and other factors. The global average tooth loss rate is estimated at nearly 7% in people over 20 years old. For those aged 60 and above, the global disease burden is much higher at 23%. Tooth loss can cause psychological trauma and limit the ability to chew for patients.
Oral cancer
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lip, other parts of the mouth, and throat. It is the 13th most common cancer worldwide. An estimated 377,713 new cases were reported globally in 2020. Oral cancer is more common in men and older adults, and is influenced by socioeconomic circumstances. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and betel quid chewing are among the leading causes of oral cancer.
Dental trauma
Dental trauma is the result of injuries to the teeth, mouth, and oral cavity. The latest estimate shows that 1 billion people are affected, with a rate of about 20% in children under 12 years old. Dental trauma can be caused by factors within the oral cavity, such as misaligned teeth, as well as external factors such as traffic accidents and violence. Treatment is costly and lengthy, and can sometimes result in tooth loss and complications that affect facial development, psychological well-being, and quality of life.
Noma Disease
Noma disease, also known as cancrum oris, is a severe form of tissue necrosis in the mouth and face. It primarily affects malnourished children aged 2-6 years who have infectious diseases, poor oral hygiene, or weakened immune systems.
Noma begins as a soft tissue lesion (ulcer) of the gums. It then progresses rapidly into acute necrotizing gingivitis, destroying soft tissues and continuing to advance into hard tissues and skin on the face.
Cleft Lip
Cleft lip is the most common craniofacial anomaly, with a global prevalence rate of 1/1000-1500 live births. One of the main causes is genetic predisposition. However, poor maternal nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity during pregnancy also play a role. With appropriate surgical treatment of cleft lip and palate, full function can be restored.
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Ways to Improve Oral Health
Oral diseases and other non-communicable diseases can be prevented by:
Adopting a balanced diet that is low in free sugars and rich in fruits and vegetables. Drinking water should be the preferred choice of beverage.
Avoiding all forms of tobacco, including chewing tobacco; reducing alcohol consumption; wearing protective gear while playing sports or riding a bicycle/motorbike to reduce the risk of facial injuries.
Adequate exposure to fluoride is an essential factor in preventing tooth decay. Encouraging brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (1000-1500 ppm).
Regular dental check-ups are also important in ensuring oral health. Schedule an appointment with us today.
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