In an effort to make awareness on the oral burdens that are faced by people in PNG and the world, health professionals in the dental profession are continuing the work of advocating for the better oral health of the people.
In previous years, dentists and hygienists in PNG often did walkathons and awareness drives to advocate on World Oral Health Day which falls on 20th March annually.
Dental Hygienist at the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), Dr. Henry Morgan stated that this day is observed by advocating on having good oral health and listed four of the main oral burdens that people in PNG face every day.
“We stress on the burden of oral health that is faced all over the world.”
“In PNG, we have four disease burdens which are: Dental Caries (Decay), Peridontal (Gum) disease, Dental trauma and Oral Cancer.”
“We try to address these issues to help lessen the burden in the country and decrease the rate of people suffering from these burdens.”
Dr. Morgan said PMGH attends to an estimate of 3000-4000 patients in a year suffering from dental caries as well as a change in the age group of the people who suffer from gum disease.
“In the past, we only had old people come to the dentist because of periodontal or gum disease burdens but now we are treating young people as well.”
He stated that a lot of people in PNG suffer from dental trauma that is usually because of social habits and are often alcohol related and stated that oral cancer is one of the largest oral burdens as well.
“Cancer is one huge burden also in our country and this is causing more burdens that are placed in oral health cases that are coming in to the clinic.”
Dr. Morgan further urged the public to watch their diet as one of the main factors of tooth decay is diet and recommended a moderate intake of garden food as most carbohydrates contain sugar among other things to do to maintain good oral health.
“I recommend regular dentist check-ups.”
“You must come for dental check-ups every year to help you improve in your oral hygiene.”
“Another thing is to look after your teeth.”
“Brushing your teeth and flossing regularly is recommended for stronger and healthier teeth.”
Meanwhile he concluded by saying that the PMGH dental clinic is located in the 3-mile Medical Faculty Area and urged the public to visit the clinic to be examined.
“We are open from 8am-4pm every Mondays to Fridays.”
“After you come in and get examined, you may have to make an appointment to see a dentist. For an examination it costs K5.”
“The fees charged range from K5 and above depending on the treatment that you receive recommended by your examination results.”