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Ghana Dental Association celebrates World Oral Health Day
On March 20, the world would celebrate World Oral Health Day, with the team“a happy mouth is a happy mind.
The Ghana Dental Association has dubbed this month Oral Health Awareness Month.
As we traverse the month, Ghana Dental Association wants to emphasize the critical connection between oral health and our mental well – being.
Dentistry has been perceived as a reactive profession, focusing more on treatment rather than preventative measures.
This perception is changing gradually and the public is recognizing the significant impact oral health has on their overall well being, including our mental and cognitive health.
Poor oral health can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, making everyday interactions a daunting task. Chronic oral pain can disrupt sleep patterns, exacerbating stress and negatively impacting mental health.
Moreover, research suggests that gum disease is linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, highlighting the critical oral-systemic connection.¹
Conversely, people with mental health conditions may neglect their oral hygiene, increasing their risk of cavities and gum disease.
Stress-related habits like teeth grinding, smoking, or binge eating can also damage teeth and gums, perpetuating a vicious cycle.
A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports strong teeth and bones while also benefiting brain function. Regular dental check-ups, scaling and polishing (professional cleaning), and proper oral hygiene practices not only maintain a healthy mouth but also contribute to better overall well-being and confidence.
“As dentists, we must prioritize preventive care and encourage mindfulness practices like stress management and relaxation techniques to prevent issues like bruxism and TMJ disorders. And, yes, even dentists need to visit their dentists regularly!,” they stress.
MR Samuel Yao Atidzah, the Executive Director of GOSANET Foundation, has stated that HIV does not define a person, but “dignity, respect and love do.”
He reminded Ghanaians that no one should face discrimination because of his or her HIV status.
Mr Atidzah said this in a statement in Ho of the Volta Region to commemorate World Zero Discrimination Day.
The Day was initiated by UNAIDS in 2014 and celebrated annually on March 1 by the UN and other Organisations to promote equality, inclusion, and peace for everyone regardless of age, gender, race, or sexual orientation.
It highlights the need to end discrimination laws and actions, particularly regarding HIV/AIDS stigma.
This year’s day is on the theme: ‘People first: Standing united for dignity, equality and inclusion.’
Mr Atidzah urged all to stand together to end stigma and discrimination and promote inclusion, support People Living with AIDS in their communities.
“We have often been quick in judging people just because he or she has contracted the HIV virus; we’re in a haste to brand them as people lacking dignity.”
“We must also not lose sight of the fact that it is not every patient that attract the disease from sexual inter-course. There are those that were born with it and those who were cut by affected by objects,” he explained.
He advised all to know their status through HIV Self-testing kits, adding “it is private, confidential, safe and empowering.”
The Executive Director urged both young and old that taking charge of their health was a sign of strength and not shame.
“I urge all and sundry to get tested now, know your status, protect yourself and protect others,” he noted. –GNA
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THREE inter-related books chronicling the political history of Ghana’s Heads of State are set to be launched this month.
The books offers readers an in-depth account of the country’s constitutional and military leadership from independence to the Fourth Republic.
Authored by former Presidential Reporter of The Ghanaian Times, F. Baffour Opoku, the books explore the ideologies, leadership styles, achievements, challenges and international engagements of Ghana’s past leaders.
The first book, Constitutional Rule in Ghana’s First, Second and Third Republics, examines the administrations of Kwame Nkrumah, Edward Akufo-Addo, Kofi Abrefa Busia and Hilla Limann, highlighting key political and socio-economic developments during the First, Second and Third Republics.
The second publication, Constitutional Rule in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, provides insight into leadership under the Fourth Republic, covering the era of Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor, John Evans Atta Mills, John Dramani Mahama, and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The third book, Military Rule in Ghana between 1966 and 1993, documents significant political events during periods of military governance.
It discusses the leadership of Joseph Arthur Ankrah, first Chairman of the National Liberation Council (NLC); Akwasi Amankwa Afrifa, second Chairman of the NLC; Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, Chairman of the National Redemption Council (NRC) and later the Supreme Military Council (SMC); Frederick William Kwasi Akufo, Chairman of the reconstituted SMC; and Jerry John Rawlings, who led both the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) and the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC).
According to the author, the books provide detailed, one-stop information on the activities and governance records of each Head of State during their respective tenures.
In addition to political analysis, the books feature biographical accounts of the Heads of State, as well as colourful photo albums capturing significant national events during their tenure.
Mr Opoku notes that as Chief Executives of the nation, the leaders profiled in the books served with dedication and commitment, and their contributions to nation-building deserve recognition and documentation for present and future generations.
The launch is expected to attract political figures, academics, members of the media and the general public.
By Spectator Reporter
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