Empower individuals to prioritise dental health
EVERY year, World Oral Health Day is celebrated today on March 20. With this year's theme A Happy Mouth is a Happy Body, WorldOralHealthday.org.com said it aims to highlight the important connection between oral health and general health.
This event tries to create more awareness on empowering individuals in all communities to be mindful of how they manage and look after their mouths.
Such an event increases the level of understanding that dental care plays an important role in the overall management of a person's wellbeing.
This week Dr Sagar Solanki shares the same sentiments for having a passion for creating healthy, beautiful smiles.
He is a practicing general dentistry at the My Dental Clinic at the Queensland Insurance Building Centre in Suva.
"World Oral Health Day is a reminder of the importance of oral health on a global scale. It serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the significance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking regular dental care," he said.
"For me, it symbolises a commitment to promoting oral health equity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the resources and information needed to achieve optimal oral health.
“I've had extensive experience educating patients on oral health, simplifying complex concepts into easy-to-understand information.
“I emphasise the importance of proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, to maintain healthy teeth and gums."
He said dental hygiene and oral health are crucial because they not only affect our teeth and gums but also impact our overall well-being.
"Proper oral hygiene prevents dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Moreover, oral health is linked to systemic health, influencing conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining good oral health ensures a confident smile and contributes to a healthier life."
Dr Solanki agreed on the importance of oral health.
"Dental hygiene and oral health are crucial because they not only affect our teeth and gums but also impact our overall well-being.
Having dental services available in Fiji is incredibly important for the overall health and well-being of the population.
Dr Solanki said accessible dental care ensures that individuals can receive timely treatment for oral health issues, preventing more serious problems down the line.
Dental services contribute to improving people's quality of life by alleviating pain, enhancing confidence through better oral aesthetics, and supporting systemic health.
Overall, accessible dental services play a vital role in promoting the health and happiness of the community in Fiji.
Dr Solanki also acknowledged being able to celebrate an event as such.
He said it serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the significance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking regular dental care.
"For me, it symbolises a commitment to promoting oral health equity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the resources and information needed to achieve optimal oral health.
“I employ various methods to educate my patients on dental care, including simple explanations during appointments, visual aids such as models to illustrate concepts, and educational materials like videos.
“Additionally, I encourage open communication, answering any questions they may have and providing personalised advice tailored to their specific oral health needs,” he said.
Dr Solanki and his colleagues will also be distributing information to support World Oral Health Day.
"To commemorate Oral Health Day, our clinic plans to distribute informational materials on proper oral hygiene techniques, offering discounted dental check-ups and cleaning, and engaging with the community through social media.
“Our goal is to empower individuals to prioritise their oral health and take proactive steps towards achieving a healthy smile for life."
Below are some tips shared by Dr Solanki to help look after your dental hygiene.
Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time;
>Floss daily;
> Limit sugary foods and drinks;
>Eat a balanced diet;
>Stay Hydrated;
> Visit the dentist regularly;
> Avoid tobacco products and
> Protect your teeth.