Dr N Moangangba Jamir
Jt Director (Dental) & SNO-NOHP,
Directorate of Health and Family Welfare
World Oral Health Day is a Global Health care event observed every year on 20th March which was initiated by the FDI World Dental Federation to raise awareness on the importance of oral hygiene and the factors that have contributed to oral diseases and the impact oral health can have on overall general health of an individual. Over the years, this campaign has grown significantly, with dental associations, healthcare organizations, and communities’ worldwide actively promoting oral health through educational initiatives, free dental check-ups, and awareness. Each year, the event follows a specific theme that focuses on different aspects of oral health. This year’s theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life” emphasizes the link between mental health and dental health. Poor oral health can lead to conditions like cavities, gum diseases and tooth loss which affect confidence, social interactions and overall mental health. Untreated dental problems can also contribute to pain, stress, anxiety and self-consciousness impacting a person’s quality of live.
Why is oral health important?
Oral health plays a vital role in overall well-being affecting not just the mouth but also general health. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to various dental problems that impact daily life and long-term well-being. There is a concerning increase in oral health issues, particularly periodontal disease, dental caries, and oral cancer. In Nagaland alone, approximately 440 patients have undergone treatment for oral cancer in the past five years (up to 2025), placing a significant emotional and financial burden on families.
This highlights the urgent need to move beyond the outdated perception of oral health as limited to “just 32 teeth.” Instead, oral health must be integrated into overall healthcare, emphasizing prevention, early detection, and holistic well-being.
The role of mothers in building healthy habits:
Mothers play a powerful role in shaping the health behaviours of their families. As the first teachers of children, the habits they instill at home often last a lifetime.
When a mother teaches her child to brush twice daily, rinse after meals, and limit sugary foods, she is not only promoting hygiene but also laying the foundation for lifelong health Research shows that children whose parents practice good oral health habits are more likely to develop the same habits.
Dear mothers, you are the guardian of your family’s health. You notice when your child complains of toothache, you notice when they are sick. In fact, you are the first health worker of your family. By nurturing healthy habits, you are investing in your family’s future. A healthy child can eat better, learn better, sleep better, and grow with confidence.
Benefits of maintaining good oral hygiene:
1. Prevents Dental Diseases: Brushing, flossing and regular dental check up help prevent common problem like cavities, gum diseases and bad breath. Untreated dental issues can progress leading to pain, infection and even tooth loss.
2. Reduces the risk of systematic health problem: Poor oral hygiene has been linked to serious health conditions including heart diseases, diabetes and respiratory infections. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream increasing the risk of inflammation and other complications.
3. Support Mental and Social well-being: Oral health affects confidence, speech and social interactions. Dental problems such as missing or discolored teeth may lead to self consciousness and reluctance to smile, impacting mental well-being and quality of life.
4. Improves digestion and nutrition: Healthy teeth and gums are essential for proper chewing, which aids in digestion and nutrient absorption. Dental problems can make it difficult to eat a balanced diet leading to nutritional deficiencies.
5. Good oral hygiene habits established early can prevent severe dental issues later in life. Regular care reduces the need for complex treatments, saving time, money and discomfort in the future. Oral Hygiene Practices for Strong Teeth and Gums:
Simple daily practices for strong teeth and gums:
• Brush twice a day: Use a fluoride tooth paste and a soft bristled tooth brush to clean teeth for at least 2 minutes. Brushing before bed is especially important to remove plague and food particles.
• Floss daily; Flossing removes food debris and plague from between teeth, where a tooth brush cannot reach. This helps prevent gum diseases and cavities.
• Use Mouth Wash: An antimicrobial or fluoride mouth wash can help reduce bacteria, strengthens enamel and freshens breath.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods: Excess sugar and acidic foods weakens enamel and contributes to tooth decay. Drinking water after consuming such food can help reduce their impact.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping the mouth clean and preventing dry mouth, which can increase the risk of cavities.
• Visit the Dentist regularly: Routine check-ups and professional cleaning help detect and address dental issues early, preventing more problems in the future. Consistently following these practices will help maintain strong teeth and healthy gums, reducing the risk of dental problems over time.
Oral healthcare treatments can be expensive and are often not covered under health insurance. Access to quality dental services remains limited, especially in rural and remote areas. Untreated dental conditions can lead to pain, complex procedures, and even serious health complications.
Therefore, creating awareness about oral hygiene and preventive care is essential. World Oral Health Day serves as a powerful platform to empower individuals, families, schools, and communities with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain good oral health.
Let us take a pledge to prioritize oral health not just for ourselves, but for our families and communities. A healthy mouth is not only the foundation of physical health but also the key to confidence, happiness, and a better quality of life.
Wishing everyone a Happy World Oral Health Day 2026!
