ORAL HEALTH PROMOTION: A DOOR TO GOOD HEALTH AND HEALTHY LIVING

Abstract

Good oral health is a key indicator of overall health, wellbeing and quality of life
because it is a state of being free from chronic mouth and facial pain, oral and throat
cancer, oral infection and sores, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and
other diseases and disorders. The most common oral diseases globally are; dental caries
(tooth decay), periodontal (gum) diseases, oral cancers, oral manifestations of HIV,
oral-dental trauma, cleft lip and palate. Due to the overall importance of a positive oral
health to individuals, this paper presents a broad review of extant literature on oral
health promotion as a gateway to good health under the sub-headings of oral diseases
and conditions, the need for good oral health, and healthy ways to ensure good oral
health. Summarily, summative findings from literatures revealed that how well an
individual cares for the teeth and gums exerts substantial effects on the overall health. In
this respect, it is imperative that a good oral health is the determinant to a healthier
body and mind because it reduces the risk of numerous bacterial borne diseases and
some non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Consequently, it is necessary to understand
the importance of a good oral hygiene, and the need for the implementation of a proper
oral care routine right from childhood.