An expert from ALKÜ warned! Unhealthy mouth and teeth could be a sign of serious diseases
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Akın, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University (ALKÜ), stated in his remarks on the occasion of Oral and Dental Health Week, "Oral and dental health is an important factor that affects not only your teeth but also your overall health. Do not neglect your daily oral care to maintain a healthy smile"!
While Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University (ALKÜ) continues to make significant contributions in the field of medicine, it also continues to offer public health warnings and advice to citizens. ALKÜ makes valuable contributions to Turkey’s health sector with its Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, and the School of Health Services. On the occasion of Oral and Dental Health Week, which runs from November 18 to 24, Dean Prof. Dr. Mehmet Akın shared his advice and warnings with the public. Speaking on topics related to oral and dental care, including recommended care routines, Prof. Dr. Akın said, "We should brush our teeth at least twice a day for at least three minutes. We recommend using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Additionally, we should also brush our tongue. We must clean the spaces between our teeth daily using dental floss or interdental brushes. Our diet should consist of healthy foods, and we should limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks that can lead to cavities. We should change our toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or when it becomes worn. Ideally, we should visit the dentist for a routine check-up twice a year. During these check-ups, plaque cleaning and early diagnosis can be made. We should avoid tobacco use. If you are considering aesthetic treatments such as teeth whitening, you should plan this with your dentist. For children, oral care should begin as soon as their first teeth appear. We recommend fluoride-free toothpaste for children because they may swallow it. With regular care and good habits, we can prevent most dental problems. If you notice any oral health issues, consult your dentist immediately".
SERIOUS DISEASES CAN BE DISCOVERED DURING ROUTINE CHECK-UPS
Dean Akın provided comprehensive guidance on the necessary steps for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, saying, "Even if you have no dental problems, we recommend that you have regular dental check-ups. Normally, a dental check-up is needed every six months; however, based on your oral health status and other risk factors, your dentist may recommend more frequent or less frequent visits. The interval between check-ups can range from 3 months to 2 years, depending on how healthy your teeth and gums are and the likelihood of future problems. If necessary, your dentist may request radiographic exams and refer you to a specialist for procedures that require expertise. During routine check-ups, the dentist can detect early signs of serious diseases, such as oral cancer".
HARMFUL MICROORGANISMS IN THE MOUTH CAN LEAD TO DISEASES IN THE WHOLE BODY
Prof. Dr. Akın emphasized the importance of oral health for overall health, stating, "It has been discovered that there is a connection between poor oral health and underlying systemic diseases, which has increased the importance of oral health in recent years. Like other areas of the body, the mouth harbors microorganisms, but these microorganisms are usually harmless. The mouth is the beginning of the digestive and respiratory systems. When a disturbance occurs here, harmful microorganisms in the mouth can spread throughout the body and cause diseases. Poor oral hygiene can lead to infections such as tooth decay and gum disease. Poor oral health has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining), premature birth, and low birth weight. A healthy mouth facilitates the start of digestion and supports gastrointestinal health. Research shows that individuals with healthy gums have a lower likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to those who have had gum disease for a long period. Additionally, individuals with healthy teeth help improve the digestion process by chewing food properly. Problems with teeth can lead to chewing difficulties. Having good oral health increases one's self-esteem, which helps in building easier and better relationships with others. Good teeth lead to a beautiful smile, and a beautiful smile gives positive energy to others".
DAILY AND ROUTINE CARE IS VERY IMPORTANT
Prof. Dr. Akın shared his recommendations and reminders regarding oral and dental health, emphasizing the importance of daily oral care routines: "To maintain healthy teeth and gums, it is important to pay attention to our daily oral care routine. We should be cautious about our eating habits and avoid foods that harm dental health during snacks. We should avoid acidic and sugary drinks and limit the consumption of carbohydrate-rich sticky foods. Instead, we should prefer foods rich in fiber and increase our water intake. We should also ensure regular dental check-ups and introduce our children to a dentist during infancy to help them develop good oral hygiene habits. Oral and dental health is an important factor that affects not only your teeth but also your overall health. To maintain a healthy smile, do not neglect your daily oral care. By having regular dental check-ups before any issues arise, you increase the chances of early intervention".
ALKÜ PROVIDES HIGH-QUALITY HEALTH SERVICES WHILE TRAINING FUTURE DENTISTSProviding information about the practices and services of the Faculty of Dentistry and the Application and Research Center, Dean Prof. Dr. Akın said, "The Faculty of Dentistry at ALKÜ serves as an educational and health center that combines scientific knowledge with contemporary dental practices while prioritizing ethical principles. In our faculty, equipped clinics offer a variety of procedures, including initial examination, aesthetic treatments, implant applications, root canal treatment, orthodontic treatment, fillings, tooth extractions, surgical procedures, pediatric dentistry, and periodontal treatments. Our faculty adopts treatment approaches that are suitable for both community needs and ethical values, training the future dentists while providing high-quality health services to the public. This faculty, where education and service are intertwined, combines science and art with a holistic vision that centers on human health." Prof. Dr. Akın also congratulated all his colleagues on the occasion of Oral and Dental Health Week.
