By As part of World Oral Health Day celebrations, the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA) led an awareness campaign in Abuja, emphasizing the strong connection between oral hygiene and mental well-being. With the theme “A Happy Mouth, A Happy Mind,” the event at the National Hospital Abuja included health talks, outreach programs, and stakeholder engagements to promote better oral health nationwide.
Dr. Badamassi Abba, Director of Clinical Services at the National Hospital, highlighted the significance of oral hygiene, calling the mouth a gateway to the body. He warned that poor oral health can lead to both physical and psychological consequences, including social withdrawal. “The mind is not healthy when the mouth is not taken care of,” he stated.
Dr. Theophilus Agho, Chairman of the Nigerian Dental Association, outlined key oral health practices such as maintaining a healthy diet, brushing twice daily, regular dental checkups, and replacing toothbrushes every three months. He stressed that poor oral hygiene could cause bad breath and dental misalignment, which often result in social anxiety and reduced self-confidence.
To address these issues, the NDA launched sensitization campaigns targeting schools, marketplaces, and media platforms. These initiatives aim to educate the public on the importance of good oral hygiene and its direct impact on mental well-being.
Dr. Vitalis Obi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, called for increased government investment in oral healthcare. He emphasized the need for better funding, recruitment of dental professionals, and stronger public-private partnerships to expand access to quality dental care across Nigeria.
The event reinforced the message that oral health is essential for overall well-being. Experts urged Nigerians to adopt better oral hygiene habits, emphasizing that a healthy mouth contributes to a healthier, happier mind and society.
