The role of oral health promotion

Macarenco Maxim 209 (2)

 Oral Health Promotion

Oral health promotion aims to prevent oral health disease
before it occurs or to reduce the impact of oral health
disease. This is done through a variety of strategies or
community-based programs that aim to improve and
maintain population oral health. For example, teaching
people how to correctly clean their teeth and maintain a
healthy mouth.
 Why is Oral Health Promotion so Important?


The mouth and the surrounding structures including the teeth
is an important part of the body as a whole. A healthy mouth,
with a complete set of healthy teeth, is essential for general
well being and quality of life. It plays an important role in the
digestion of foods and boosts people's confidence to speak
and socialise freely.

Many oral diseases, including tooth decay and gum disease,
can be prevented through early detection and intervention.
Preventative programs and services represent a sound
investment in the health of the country and help to alleviate
future restorative oral and general health care expenses.
Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) Oral Health Service is
highly committed to delivering meaningful and accessible
Oral Health promotion initiatives.
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The health of the teeth, the mouth, and the surrounding
craniofacial (skull and face) structures is central to a person’s
overall health and well-being.

Oral and craniofacial diseases and conditions include:

Dental caries (tooth decay)

Periodontal (gum) diseases

Cleft lip and palate

Oral and facial pain

Oral and pharyngeal (mouth and throat) cancers

Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Oral health is essential to overall health. Good oral health
improves a person’s ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch,
chew, swallow, and make facial expressions to show feelings and
emotions.

Good self-care, such as brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily
flossing, and professional treatment, is key to good oral health.

Health behaviors that can lead to poor oral health include:

Tobacco use

Excessive alcohol use

Poor diet

Barriers that can limit a person’s use of preventive interventions and
treatments include:

Limited access to and availability of dental services

Lack of awareness of the need for care

Cost

Fear of dental procedures

There are also social determinants that affect oral health. In general,
people with lower levels of education and income, and people from
specific racial/ethnic groups, have higher rates of disease.

People with disabilities and other health conditions, like diabetes, are
more likely to have poor oral health.
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Thanks for your attention!