Around 92.4 percent of Filipinos have tooth decay (dental caries) and 78 percent have gum diseases (periodontal diseases), in data released by the Department of Health (DOH) in 2021, based on the National Monitoring and Epidemiological Dental Survey (NMEDS).

Same study shows that the dental caries experience of 12-year-old Filipinos in terms of the Average number of Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT) is 4.48. This is high compared to the World Health Organization standards of 3 DMFT.

A 2006 National Oral Health Survey (NOHS), on the other other hand, revealed that 97.1 percent of six-year-old children suffer from tooth decay. While more than four out of every five children of this subgroup manifested symptoms of dentinogenic infection. 

In addition, 78.4 percent of 12-year-old children suffer from dental caries and 49.7 percent of the same age group manifested symptoms of dentinogenic infections.

To encourage Filipinos to take charge of their preventive oral care and foster a sense of responsibility for their own health, February has been celebrated as “Oral Health Month” in the Philippines. 

This annual observance is dedicated to promoting awareness about the importance of oral hygiene, encouraging preventive dental care, and fostering a culture of healthy smiles across the nation.

Oral health is a vital component of overall well-being, impacting not only our smiles but also our ability to eat, speak, and maintain a high quality of life. In recognizing February as Oral Health Month, the Philippines underscores the significance of preventive measures and regular dental check-ups to ensure a nation with bright and healthy smiles.

Healthy habits

Throughout Oral Health Month, various initiatives and campaigns are launched to educate the public about proper oral hygiene practices. From schools to workplaces, dental health professionals engage with communities, emphasizing the importance of brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. The goal is to instill lifelong habits that contribute to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

PDA reminders

During the last quarter of 2023, the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), the organization of dentists, technologists and hygienists in the country, has continually campaigned for oral health habits, especially during the holiday season. Some of these reminders are:

• Avoiding sweet goodies such as candies, desserts and juices because the bacteria in the mouth will turn the sugar into acid which can cause tooth decay; 
• Drinking acidic drinks such as wine, beers, soft drinks and artificially sweetened drinks can damage the tooth enamel. To avoid this, limit your intake of these drinks, but if it cannot be avoided, gargle with water or chew a sugar-free gum, this can help produce more saliva that can wash away the sugar and acid from the mouth;
• The longer a candy or gum stays in the mouth, the longer the teeth are soaked in sugar. Moreover, hard candies can also crack the teeth so don’t bite them; and 
• Heavy consumption of jams, gravy, tea and coffee and also smoking can permanently stain the teeth. Regular tooth brushing and cleaning can protect the teeth.

Further, PDA reminds parents that it is their responsibility to teach their kids good oral hygiene and to limit their sweets intake. Parents should monitor their children’s proper way of tooth  brushing and must take them to dentists regularly for check ups.

Schools and community involvement

Education plays a crucial role in improving oral health, and schools are at the forefront of these efforts. During the month observance, dental health professionals visit schools to conduct informative sessions, teaching children the essentials of oral care through interactive activities. This not only empowers the younger generation with knowledge but also encourages them to become oral health advocates within their families and communities.

Community dental missions are another integral part of the celebration. Mobile dental clinics travel to underserved areas, offering free dental check-ups, cleanings, and basic treatments. These missions not only address immediate oral health needs but also serve as a reminder of the importance of regular dental care.

Caloocan’s oral health video-making contest

Just recently, the Caloocan City Health Department announced its Oral Health video-making contest with the theme "Ngipin pagtibayin, Tamang pagsisipilyo ating gawin" which focuses on proper tooth brushing and its benefit to total health. This innovative initiative aims to promote oral hygiene awareness and dental care practices among the residents of Caloocan City. Participants were encouraged to unleash their creativity and produce engaging videos that highlight the significance of maintaining good oral health. The submission of entries online ended on January 19, 2024. Winners will be judged based on the video’s adherence to the theme, originality, creativity and its social media engagement and will be announced on February 1, 2024.

The contest provided a platform for the community to come together, share valuable information, and contribute to the overall well-being of its members. Participants looked  forward to not only showcasing their filmmaking skills but also making a positive impact on the oral health habits of Caloocan City residents.

Collaboration with healthcare professionals

Oral Health Month provides an opportunity for collaboration between the government, private sector, and healthcare professionals. Dental clinics often offer discounted or free services during this month, making it more accessible for individuals to prioritize their oral health. Additionally, dental associations contribute by organizing seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns, ensuring a united front in promoting oral health.

Promoting holistic wellness