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Happy World Oral Health Day! Every year on March 20, we take a moment to acknowledge the importance of oral health, hygiene, and education.
Oral diseases affect an estimated 3.5 billion people worldwide, making them one of the most common health conditions globally [World Health Organization(WHO)].
Every year, dental services are the most requested services at Remote Area Medical (RAM®) Clinics. There are many factors that contribute to this. Cost, lack of insurance, fear, and limited local access keep many people from seeing a dentist. As a result, many of our patients go years without care, and without RAM many would continue to go without treatment.
At RAM Clinics, providers deliver care and education to help patients understand how to maintain their oral health long after they leave the clinic.
What is World Oral Health Day?
World Oral Health Day focuses on helping people prevent oral disease through simple, daily habits. It raises awareness about why oral health matters and provides practical ways to take care of it.
What is World Oral Health Day trying to prevent?
Good oral health can prevent a lot of diseases. “Oral diseases are among the most common noncommunicable diseases worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.5 billion people,” according to the WHO.
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Poor oral health can lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Left untreated, these conditions can worsen over time and lead to infections that spread beyond the mouth.
Oral health is closely connected to overall health. Research from the Mayo Clinic shows links between oral health and conditions like heart disease, stroke, and pneumonia.
In the United States, nearly 1 in 4 adults has untreated tooth decay, often due to cost or limited access to care.
How to protect your oral health
Here’s what helps protect oral health [Mayo Clinic]:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time
- Clean between your teeth using floss
- Eat healthy foods
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
- See a dentist for biannual exams
- Avoid tobacco products
Fun Fact!
The FDI World Dental Federation chose March 20th as the date for the World Oral Health Day because “Healthy adults must have a total of 32 teeth and 0 dental cavities. Expressed on a numerical basis this can be translated as 3/20 hence March 20.”
How RAM helps to promote dental health and wellness
RAM removes one of the biggest barriers to oral health: access.
At our clinics, patients receive free dental services, including cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Whether it has been six months or 40 years since their last visit, RAM’s volunteer dentists meet patients where they are and provide the care they need.
Our dental providers also provide dental education and practical guidance so patients can continue caring for their teeth at home.
After treatment, RAM Patients receive a care bag with a toothbrush, floss, mouthwash, and more. This makes it easier to maintain healthy habits after the clinic. We want to promote oral health in and out of the clinic.
We also post blogs like this, with information like this, to continue educating about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Read what RAM Board Member Dr. Brian Swann has to say about the importance of oral health and oral hygiene here.
More about RAM
- Donate to support RAM’s mission of providing free healthcare across the U.S.
- Volunteer with us at an upcoming clinic
- Follow RAM on social media and share with your friends, family, and followers
- Read our blog and download our free magazine to learn more about RAM’s mission to break down barriers to care
- Use Walmart’s Spark Good Program and donate your change to RAM!
