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World Oral Health Day
March 4, 2022 | Altura Blog
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Let’s face it. Oral health has come a long way. Back in the 1800s, the poor often relied on a visit to the local barber, who used unsanitary tools to perform a rudimentary pain-relieving extraction in the back laneway, with no attention paid to prevention or ongoing dental hygiene.
Perhaps today there aren’t many people who simply love the experience of going to the dentist, but on the other hand, we are so fortunate to be living in an age when oral health problems can be discovered early, attended to by a caring dentist or dental practitioner and you are out of that surgery before you can say ‘Have a gargle and a rinse out’.
On the 20th March each year, World Oral Health Day reminds us of the importance of good oral health. For many countries, oral disease remains a major concern which affects their individuals and health care communities. This special day relies on everyone’s collective actions to reach out, educate and create awareness to reduce the burden of oral diseases.
In our own sector, there are many uncomfortable consequences of poor oral hygiene for older people, from tooth decay to more serious diseases such as gingivitis, or gum disease, periodontitis, when the gums and bone actually begin to break down, and root decay. It’s vitally important that we continue to support the people in our care by assessing their oral health regularly, observing their behaviours, providing assistance and reminding them about strategies that will maintain good oral health.
How can you and your team get involved with 2022 World Oral Health Day?
- Read all about World Oral Health Day, where you’ll also find stories about how other teams around the world are promoting good oral health
- Check out the resources available on the World Oral Health Day website
- Spread the word!
- Organise an event with your staff
For our Altura Learning members, find out more.
In our Residential Care course, Oral Health: Caring for Natural Teeth and Dentures
and our Home Care course, Activities of Daily Living: Oral Hygiene, you’ll discover why good oral health is so important and learn how to assist with the maintenance of oral hygiene for the people in your care.
Keep up the great work and keep smiling!
