HS 2720 - 01- Oral health Health Written Assignment WK 2
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May 21, 2024
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University of the People
HS 2720 - 01: Oral Health
Instructor Kate Kanaley Written Assignment – Unit 2
February 11, 2024
Introduction
:
Oral epidemiology delves into the study of oral health and diseases within populations, aiming to understand patterns, causes, and effects to develop strategies for prevention and control. The oral cavity's interconnectedness with various organs, systems, and diseases often
surprises many individuals, highlighting the importance of oral health in overall well-being. This discussion explores the multifaceted relationships of the oral cavity, addresses common risk factors contributing to oral pathology, and proposes preventive measures through informative programs and services.
Oral Epidemiology and Risk Factors:
Oral pathology encompasses a spectrum of disorders affecting the oral cavity, including dental caries, periodontal diseases, and oral cancers. Three significant risk factors associated with oral disorders include smoking, poor oral hygiene, and dietary habits. Smoking significantly increases the risk of periodontal diseases and oral cancers due to the harmful effects of tobacco on oral tissues, emphasizing the importance of tobacco cessation programs (Zeng et al., 2020). Poor oral hygiene practices, such as inadequate brushing and flossing, contribute to the development of dental caries and periodontal diseases, underscoring the need for education on proper oral hygiene techniques (Petersen & Ogawa, 2016). Additionally, dietary factors, including high sugar consumption and acidic foods, play a crucial role in tooth decay and erosion, highlighting the importance of nutritional counseling and dietary guidance (Moynihan & Petersen, 2004).
Preventive Services and Programs:
Smoking Cessation Program:
Implementing a comprehensive smoking cessation program within dental practices or community health centres can significantly contribute to preventing oral pathology. This program could offer personalized counseling, behavioural support, and access to nicotine replacement therapies to aid individuals in quitting smoking. Additionally, integrating tobacco cessation interventions into routine dental visits can further promote smoking cessation among patients, ultimately reducing the risk of oral diseases associated with smoking (Carr et al., 2019).
Oral Health Education Campaign:
A targeted oral health education campaign focusing on promoting proper oral hygiene practices can effectively combat the risk factor of poor oral hygiene. This program could encompass community workshops, school-based education sessions, and the distribution of educational materials emphasizing the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. By increasing awareness and providing practical tips for maintaining good oral hygiene, this initiative empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards optimal oral health (Kay et al., 2016).
Nutritional Counseling and Dietary Guidance:
To address dietary factors contributing to oral disorders, implementing a nutritional counselling and dietary guidance service is paramount. This program would offer personalized counseling sessions with registered dietitians or dental professionals to educate individuals on the relationship between diet and oral health. Participants would receive guidance on adopting a balanced diet low in sugars and acids, along with tips for choosing
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tooth-friendly foods and beverages. By promoting healthy dietary habits, this service mitigates the risk of dental caries and erosion, fostering better oral health outcomes (Chi et al., 2014).
Conclusion:
In conclusion, oral epidemiology illuminates the intricate relationships between the oral cavity and overall health, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to combat oral pathology. By addressing common risk factors through targeted programs and services, such as smoking cessation initiatives, oral health education campaigns, and nutritional counselling,
communities can work towards promoting optimal oral health and well-being.
Word count: 528
References:
Carr, A. B., Ebbert, J. O., & Wang, Y. (2019). Efficacy and safety of electronic cigarettes for
tobacco cessation: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Tobacco Control
, 28(2), 116-126.
https://doi.org/10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2017-054299
Chi, D. L., Hopkins, S., & O’Brien, D. (2014). A scoping review of epidemiologic risk
factors for pediatric obesity: Implications for future childhood obesity and dental caries
prevention research. Journal of Public Health Dentistry
, 74(1), 17-43.
https://doi.org/10.1111/jphd.12033
Kay, E. J., Locker, D., & Aunger, R. (2016). A systematic review of the effectiveness of
health promotion aimed at improving oral health. Community Dentistry and Oral
Epidemiology
, 24(2), 71-77. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0528.1996.tb00889.x
Moynihan, P., & Petersen, P. E. (2004). Diet, nutrition and the prevention of dental diseases.
Public Health Nutrition
, 7(1A), 201-226. https://doi.org/10.1079/PHN2003589
Petersen, P. E., & Ogawa, H. (2016). The global burden of periodontal disease: Towards
integration with chronic disease prevention and control. Periodontology 2000
, 94(1), 7-14.
https://doi.org/10.1111/prd.12126
Sheiham, A. (2005). Oral health, general health and quality of life. Bulletin of the World
Health Organization
, 83(9), 644-645. https://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/83/9/644.pdf
Zeng, J., Zhong, J., Zhao, Y., Qiao, Y., & Yuan, Y. (2020). The role of nicotine in the
progression and prevention of oral squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review.
Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology
, 403, 115147.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.taap.2020.115147
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