Less than 10% of Ghanaians visit dentists regularly, primarily seeking help during pain. A WHO survey indicates high occurrences of oral diseases, with many adults experiencing gum disease and tooth decay. World Oral Health Day, observed annually, underscores the need for awareness regarding oral health’s role in overall well-being and its interconnection with non-communicable diseases.
According to the Ghana Health Service, less than 10% of Ghanaians regularly visit a dentist, primarily seeking care only when experiencing pain or significant complications. Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Acting Director-General, revealed findings from a 2023 World Health Organisation (WHO) STEPS survey, indicating a worrying prevalence of oral diseases among the population.
The survey highlighted that over 70% of adults surveyed reported symptoms of gum disease, including bleeding gums, pain, or swelling, while dental caries, or tooth decay, was frequently noted across all demographics. Prof Kaba emphasized the survey’s results at the launch of World Oral Health Day 2025, underscoring the immediate need for enhanced oral health measures.
World Oral Health Day, observed annually on March 20, promotes awareness and prioritization of oral health, an essential facet of overall well-being. Supported by Colgate, this year’s theme is “A Happy Mouth, A Happy Mind.” The findings also interlink poor oral health with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), indicating that individuals with dental issues are more susceptible to conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.
The survey revealed that around 50% of respondents did not use fluoride toothpaste, and many had infrequent brushing habits. Moreover, a considerable proportion of those facing oral health issues were tobacco users, heightening the risk of oral cancer and periodontal diseases. To address these concerns, the Ghana Health Service proposes to expand access to oral healthcare by deploying dental professionals to underserved regions and utilizing technology for improved outcomes.
Furthermore, Prof Kaba advised the public to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, limit sugar intake, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and maintain regular dental visits. Dr. Richard Selormey, General Secretary of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), reiterated that oral health extends beyond dental health and can reflect broader health conditions, including HIV.
Dr. Selormey also urged the government to elevate the status of oral healthcare, highlighting its potential economic benefits, especially in attracting international patients seeking more affordable treatments in Ghana. He called for the establishment of a comprehensive oral health policy to support these initiatives.
Mr. Edmund Nartey from WHO emphasized the importance of oral health, calling for increased public awareness to enhance overall well-being. Additionally, Mr. Edward Sonkor, a representative from Colgate, stated that good oral health significantly contributes to individual well-being, asserting the company’s commitment to improving dental health through quality products.
The event also included demonstrations of proper oral hygiene practices, encouraging individuals to prioritize their oral health.
In conclusion, the low percentage of regular dental visits among Ghanaians highlights a critical need for improvement in oral health awareness and access. The connections between oral health and overall health underscore the urgency of addressing dental issues, especially considering the high prevalence of gum disease and tooth decay. Initiatives proposed by health officials and organizations emphasize the importance of education, preventive measures, and policy formulation to enhance oral healthcare in Ghana.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
