Introduction:
World Oral Health Day is observed annually on March 20th to promote oral and dental health worldwide through taking preventive measures and raising awareness about the importance of oral hygiene.
Facts:
- Dental caries (tooth decay) affects Saudi children at a rate of 96% in 6- -year-age group and 93.7% in 12-year age group.
- Oral diseases are the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide.
- Severe periodontal (gum) disease, which may result in tooth loss, was estimated to be the 11th most preventable disease globally.
- Dental treatment is costly, averaging 5% of total health expenditure and 20% of out-of-pocket health expenditure.
- Poor oral hygiene and inadequate exposure to fluoride is one of the most common causes of dental and oral diseases.
Objectives:
- Raising awareness about the importance of oral and dental hygiene.
- Promoting healthy diet with low sugar and combating smoking.
- Encouraging periodic oral examination.
Official Date:
Globally: March 20th, 2021
Locally: Shaban 7th, 1442H
Theme:
(Be Proud of Your Mouth)
References: