Week for Dental Care 15-21 December 2020
In the period of 15-21 December 2020 the Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia will mark Week for Dental Care with the motto: Healthy Living Habits for Healthy Smiles. In this way we want to raise public awareness on the importance of oral health, which is a key indicator of overall health, well-being and quality of life. Most oral diseases and conditions share common risk factors with leading non-communicable chronic diseases (cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes). These risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol consumption and an unhealthy nutrition rich with refined sugars. There is a proven link between oral health and general health. Diabetes mellitus has been shown to be associated with the development and progression of periodontitis.
Key facts
- Oral diseases are a major health burden for many countries and affect people throughout their lives, causing pain, discomfort, distortion and even death.
- Oral diseases are estimated to affect nearly 3.5 billion people.
- Untreated dental caries in permanent teeth is the most common health condition according to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017.
- More than 530 million children suffer from primary tooth decay (deciduous teeth).
- Nearly 10% of the global population suffers from an advanced form of periodontal disease that can result in tooth loss.
- Factors that contribute to oral diseases are an unhealthy diet rich in sugar, tobacco use and alcohol use.
- Good hygiene, regular dental examinations and a healthy lifestyle contribute to the protection of oral health, regardless of age.
- Most oral diseases are largely preventable and can be treated at an early stage.
