KATHMANDU: Oral health is a vital part of overall health. When oral health is well-maintained, it can help prevent up to 90% of diseases. Poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and more serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Oral diseases can cause pain, tooth loss, and expensive treatments. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are essential to maintaining good oral health. Therefore, oral health is of utmost importance.

NepalNews had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Subash Ghimire, a senior oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Nepal.

Dr. Ghimire, a dedicated dental surgeon, has made significant contributions to Nepal’s healthcare industry. Through free checkup camps and various initiatives to improve dental health, he has shown unwavering commitment to the field. Below are excerpts from our conversation:

How important is oral health?

If the mouth is healthy, 90% of diseases don’t occur. Oral health is crucial because it directly affects a person’s overall well-being.

Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to cavities, gum infections, bad breath, and can expose you to serious illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

Poor oral care can also result in pain, tooth loss, and expensive treatments. Therefore, maintaining oral hygiene is a priority for a healthy life.

Can germs from the mouth reach the stomach?

Yes, germs from the mouth can travel to the stomach. When you swallow, bacteria, viruses, and other microbes in your mouth travel down your throat and into your digestive system.

However, the stomach’s acidic environment helps kill many harmful bacteria. Poor dental hygiene can lead to the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which may increase the risk of infections, gum disease, and even stomach issues like gastritis or infections caused by Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria linked to ulcers.

Does sweetness cause tooth decay?

While sweetness itself doesn’t directly cause tooth decay, sugary foods and drinks create a favorable environment for bacteria. When sugar remains in the mouth, bacteria feed on it and produce acid, which gradually weakens tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking on sugary foods, and improper brushing increase the risk of dental decay. So, it’s not just sweetness but the combination of sugar, bacteria, and poor dental care that causes tooth decay.

What are the causes of tooth pain?

Tooth pain can result from various factors. The most common cause is dental caries (cavities). Another major cause is gum infection or periodontitis.

Tooth pain can also occur due to tooth sensitivity or impacted wisdom teeth. If wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, they can cause swelling and severe pain. In some cases, tooth fractures or trauma may also lead to pain.

What symptoms indicate a problem with the teeth?

If you experience pain while eating, sensitivity to hot or cold, swollen gums, or bleeding when brushing, it may indicate a tooth problem. Halitosis (bad breath), loose teeth, or pus at the gum line may signal an infection.

Dark spots on teeth, broken teeth, or difficulty chewing also require attention. Regular headaches or jaw pain can also stem from dental issues. If ignored, these symptoms could lead to more severe consequences.

Some people suffer from bad breath. What could be the possible causes?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can result from poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, or bacterial growth on the tongue. Certain foods like garlic, onion, and spicy foods can contribute to bad breath.

Occasionally, digestive issues, sinus infections, or respiratory conditions may be to blame. Dehydration, smoking, and alcohol consumption can also lead to bad breath. If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, treatment may be necessary.

How many times a day is it good to brush? What is the recommended time for changing a toothbrush?

It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed.

Brushing in the morning helps remove overnight plaque and bacteria, while bedtime brushing eliminates food particles and plaque buildup from the day. It is important to brush for at least two minutes each time.

You should change your toothbrush every 60 days. Over time, brushes lose their effectiveness, and a worn-out toothbrush will not clean your teeth properly.

Why does tooth grinding occur?

Tooth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be caused by anxiety, stress, misaligned teeth, sleep disorders, or an irregular bite.

It can result in tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and damage to the teeth. If symptoms occur, it’s important to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What treatments are available for various tooth problems?

In Nepal, various treatments are available for different tooth problems. For cavities, fillings can restore damaged teeth.

Root canal treatment is used for infected teeth to save them from extraction. If a tooth is chipped or cracked, bonding or crowns can be used for repair.

For gum issues like gingivitis or periodontitis, deep cleaning and scaling are performed.

In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary for severely damaged or impacted teeth. Good oral hygiene can help prevent these problems.

What preventive measures can be taken to keep the teeth and mouth healthy?

To maintain a healthy mouth and teeth, brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your gums.

Floss daily to remove food particles between your teeth. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can lead to cavities. Stay away from tobacco, which can cause gum disease and oral cancer.

Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet for overall oral health. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also essential.