A consultant dentist Dr. Bolaji Adebiyi has advised Nigerians to prioritise their oral health, emphasising that many medical conditions first manifest through signs in the mouth.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Friday, Adebiyi, who is the founder of Kopul Dental Clinic and a retired director of medical services for Lagos State, lamented the low awareness of oral health in Nigeria.
“Many people only visit the dentist when they are in pain. This mindset delays intervention and complicates dental issues that could have been resolved easily if addressed early,” he said.
Dr. Adebiyi explained that oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health, as conditions like diabetes often show initial symptoms in the mouth.
“If you are diabetic, you may notice dryness in your mouth due to reduced saliva production. This could be an early sign of high blood sugar,” he said.
He added, “Changes in the colour of the mouth tissue, such as it being overly pink or not as pink as expected, can also indicate underlying health issues.”
The dentist warned against taking non-professional advice for oral issues, noting that such actions often worsen the condition.
“Some people resort to harmful remedies like mixing garlic with bleach and applying it to the affected area. By the time they come to the clinic, the damage is extensive, with burnt gums and peeling tissues,” he said.
Dr. Adebiyi also highlighted complications from dental diseases that can be life-threatening.
“Wisdom teeth are often problematic due to limited space in the mouth. If untreated, infections can lead to swelling and pus formation, which may extend into the neck and obstruct breathing—a condition known as Ludwig’s Angina. Without immediate surgical intervention, such cases can result in death,” he warned.
To prevent dental issues, Adebiyi recommended brushing carefully and thoroughly, spending at least five minutes on the process.
“When brushing, avoid aggressive strokes as they can harm your teeth. Focus on cleaning the back of your tongue as well, where bacteria that cause mouth odour tend to reside,” he advised.
He also urged Nigerians to monitor their bodies for changes, including oral signs, irregular sleep patterns, headaches, and bowel movement inconsistencies, as these could indicate health issues.
Dr. Adebiyi encouraged organisations with health insurance plans to ensure their employees take advantage of them for regular medical and dental check-ups.
“Regular check-ups can help detect and address health issues before they escalate. Taking care of your oral health is a step toward ensuring overall well-being,” he concluded.
