ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi on Monday said 95 percent diseases can be prevented through oral hygiene and urged the general public to adopt the practice for their own health.
Oral diseases are a major health concern for many countries and negatively impact people throughout their lives. Oral diseases lead to pain and discomfort, social isolation and loss of self-confidence, and they are often linked to other serious health issues. And yet, there is no reason to suffer: most oral health conditions are largely preventable and can be treated in their early stages.
On the 20 March every year, World Oral Health Day aims to empower people with the knowledge, tools and confidence to secure good oral health.
In his message to the nation on World Oral Health Day, President Arif Alvi emphasized cleaning the mouth twice a day with a toothbrush or a Miswak (tooth-cleaning twig).
The president mentioned that The Holy Prophet (Peace be upon Him) used to clean his mouth and teeth frequently.
He quoted a Hadith as saying that cleanliness in Islam is considered as half the faith. He said about 21 Hadiths in Sahih Bukhari laid stress on cleaning and use of Miswak.
Dr Alvi said oral diseases are difficult and expensive to treat and thus could be prevented through proper oral hygiene.
He warned that betel nut could cause oral cancer and thus needed to be avoided.
