The Inter-country Centre for Oral Health for Africa, (ICOH) has said people who drink too much alcohol and smoke excessively are exposing themselves to the risk of oral cancer.
A Chief Dental Therapist with ICOH, Mr. Gyang Mathew gave the warning on Thursday in Jos.
ICOH is an agency under the Federal Ministry of Health, responsible for oral health research and training initiatives.
Oral cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the oral cavity, which includes the lips, tongues, gums, floor of the mouth, jawbones and inside of the cheeks.
Speaking at an oral health symposium and free dental examination for members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Plateau Council, held by the Centre, Mathew explained that some of the chemicals contained in tobacco were carcinogenic, which could cause genetic changes in cells of the mouth cavity, thereby resulting in the development of oral cancer.
The dental therapist said that the dehydrating effect of alcohol on cell walls could enhance the ability of tobacco carcinogens to permeate the mouth tissues, which could lead to a form of oral cancer.
He said, “Using broom sticks and toothpick to pick teeth, filling teeth, uncorking bottles with the teeth, as well as self-medication, are highly detrimental to the teeth.”
Mathew further advised that people should ensure they employed the right brushing technique such as using a medium bristled toothbrush, brushing gently through each tooth surface (outer, inner and chewing), using a small circular motion for at least two minutes.
“You are to ensure that you reach all areas of your mouth, including your tongue, to prevent the build-up of bacteria that causes bad breath.”
Also speaking, Director of ICOH, Dr. Olaniyi Taiwo, who was represented by Dr. Rotimi Majekodunmi, called on Nigerians to prioritise their oral health by adopting preventive oral health practices.
Majekodunmi said, “Preventive oral health practices are cost-effective and contribute immensely to the overall well-being of an individual.”
He added that preventive practices such as brushing twice daily using a fluoridated toothpaste, healthy diet, lifestyle, and keeping dental appointments twice yearly were imperative to dental health practices.
In her welcome remarks, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Plateau Council, Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, commended the ICOH for the symposium and the free dental examinations for her members.
Pwaspo, while urging members of the NUJ to avail themselves of the free oral examination noted that oral health was one aspect of health that was often neglected.
