adminNokusa Masuku Chronicle Reporter
MORE than 80 percent of people in Zimbabwe who visit a dentist do so to have their teeth extracted, as standards of oral hygiene continue to deteriorate, director of oral health in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Dr Francis Sibanda has said. He said increased tooth decay could be attributed to very few people going for dental checkups.
He was speaking during the National Oral Day Commemorations held at St Peter’s Primary School in Khami District, on the outskirts of Bulawayo.
A total of 103 people received free dental care from the Premier Service Medical Investments (PSMI) as part of its social responsibility programme at the event.
Dr Sibanda urged people to prevent tooth decay and keep their teeth for life by visiting a dentist for regular checkups.
“We don’t deal with teeth only but we also check the mouth as a whole, lips, cheeks and tongue. Dental care should be an ongoing process that reminds people on how to look after their mouths. We don’t want tooth decay but we want people to keep their teeth for life,” he said.
Of the 103 people who benefited from free dental care, 50 had their teeth either extracted or cleaned.
Bulawayo deputy provincial education director, Richard Swene said oral health was a significant component of primary health care and deserved as much attention as other aspects of health.
“It’s a concern for all, the medical fraternity, every sector and every group of people, be it schoolchildren, people living with HIV/Aids, the young, the old, underprivileged and so on. That’s why the theme this year is: ‘Celebrating Healthy Smiles,’” said Swene.
Rosemary Mntungwa, the spokesperson of the oral health team, revealed that between May and August 2014 at least 310 people from Khami District, including 125 prisoners, received dental treatment from the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
“Already 185 pupils from different primary schools in Khami District and 125 prisoners from Khami Maximum Prison have received treatment from the team. Those who required serious treatment were referred to Bulawayo Government Dental Clinic.”
Online Reporter