Health
Oral Health Month is October
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – October 7, 2024: The Turks and Caicos Islands Government Dental Department within the Ministry of Health and Human Services will celebrate its annual Oral Health Month throughout October. The theme for this year’s observance: ‘Healthy Gums Look Good on You,’ was chosen to heighten awareness of the importance of having healthy teeth and gums.
The main focus during the month will be periodontal gum disease, which is the root cause affecting gum health. Periodontal disease is a set of inflammatory conditions affecting the tissues, including the gums surrounding the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), the gums may be swollen or red and bleed easily. If this progresses, teeth can become shaky and will eventually fall out as the bone supporting the teeth is gradually eroded away.
Gum disease is very intrusive and progresses rapidly, depending on severity, extent, and underlying cause. Periodontal gum disease has a very high prevalence in the Turks and Caicos Islands affecting all ages; however, it is most prevalent in the elderly, more particularly in older men. Early detection and prevention of periodontal gum disease through oral health education and promotion, preventative intervention, and inter-professional collaboration are key to developing healthy oral habits.
Join us and help participate in the main activities of focus during the month of October 2024:
- Opening of Oral Health Month church service.
- Free dental treatments collaborated with Ministry of Health and Human Services, Sandals Foundation and Great Shape Inc. (A Professional Voluntary Dental Organisation).
- Dental health education, examination and dental screening.
- Free Walk-In Dental Cleaning Day
- School visits
- Oral health displays in clinics
- Prison, SNAP Center, Geriatric Home, All Girls Home, and Wellness Center visit
- Radio talk show – Health Matters
The Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Shaun D. Malcolm, commented, “Our smiles are a window to our health. This Oral Health Month, let’s take small steps together—brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups—that can make a big difference. A healthy mouth means a healthier you, and everyone deserves that.”
At the end of this oral health month, we hope the public will be more knowledgeable and better prepared to identify and seek all available treatments for periodontal gum disease. Healthy gums enhance an individual’s confidence in living, working, and social life and can improve individual self-esteem. Health is a universal right!
The Government Dental Department invites members of the public to get involved during our month of activities. Remember to brush and floss daily, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking and tobacco products. Reduce sugary drinks; choose water instead, and visit your dental professionals at least twice yearly.
Lastly, remember to smile a lot because “HEALTHY GUMS LOOK GOOD ON YOU!”
For more information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.