The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Health, is observing the Gulf Oral and Dental Health Week; an annual event that takes place in the Gulf region.
The event is aimed at promoting awareness about oral and dental health. The Gulf Health Council organises events involving dental professionals from various Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the Sultanate of Oman.
Aimed at educating the public on the importance of maintaining good oral health and hygiene, Gulf Oral and Dental Health Week raises awareness about the most common oral health issues, such as a cavity, gum and oral cancer. The event provides an opportunity for dental professionals to engage with the public and provide them with valuable information on how to prevent and treat oral health problems.
The focus of the Gulf Health Council this year is on the use of manual and water dental floss for people who have difficulty using traditional floss or who have braces, implants, or other dental appliances that make flossing challenging.
However, the council stressed that it’s important to note that water flossing should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. While it can help remove plaque and debris from between teeth, it does not replace the mechanical action of brushing and flossing in removing plaque from tooth surfaces.
The council urged parents to take good care of their children’s teeth by encouraging them to brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, selecting gentle-haired small soft toothbrushes, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting the dentist twice a year.
The council identified three misconceptions that may harm teeth, including the belief that sugar-free soft drinks do not harm teeth. The presence of acid in these drinks causes enamel erosion, resulting in tooth sensitivity or decay.
The second misconception is that vinegar can clean teeth instead of toothpaste. But the truth is that acetic acid causes enamel erosion and should never be used.
The third myth is chewing sugar-free gum is a good substitute for brushing and toothpaste. While gum may increase saliva, which equals acids in the mouth, it is never a replacement for brushing.
One of the main objectives of the Gulf Oral and Dental Health Week is to promote the importance of preventive care that involves encouraging the public to use a good toothbrush. Soft or medium bristles are usually recommended by dentists as they are gentler on teeth and gums. The dentists urge patients to choose a brush head that comfortably fits in the mouth and can easily reach all areas of teeth.
Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more efficient at removing plaque and debris, especially in hard-to-reach areas. They have different modes, such as gentle or deep cleaning, and timers that ensure proper brushing time. Some models also have pressure sensors that alert users when they are applying too much pressure.
In addition to promoting oral health, the Gulf Oral and Dental Health Week also provides an opportunity for dental professionals to collaborate and share knowledge and expertise. This includes exchanging best practices and discussing new trends and innovations in the field of dentistry.
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