Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) has urged Rwandans to maintain good oral hygiene and undergo regular dental check-ups to prevent serious health complications. Irene Bagahirwa, Director of the Injuries and Disabilities Unit at RBC, emphasised the importance of preventative measures explaining the severity of the oral health problems during the celebration of World Oral Health Day in Kigali on Thursday, March 20. A 2022 study found that 33 per cent of Rwandans aged 18 and above do not brush their teeth regularly,” Bagahirwa said. “Ideally, people should brush after every meal, but given daily life constraints, brushing at least in the morning and at night is crucial. The issue is not only a lack of brushing but also improper brushing techniques. ALSO READ: Maintain oral hygiene to boost overall health Only 57 per cent of Rwandans do not seek dental care when needed. Many only go to see a dentist when the situation has worsened, leaving extraction as the only option when early treatment could have saved the tooth, she explained. Gum disease and tooth decay are the most common oral health problems, alongside oral cancers. While these diseases may not always be fatal, they have significant consequences, Bagahirwa noted. In 2024, oral diseases ranked among the top 20 conditions requiring hospital visits, she noted. No one should have to cover their mouth before smiling or feel self-conscious about speaking due to bad breath. Poor oral health affects mental well-being and social interactions. “It is recommended to brush teeth at least in the morning and at night before bed. This is because the bacteria that cause tooth decay are more active at night when the mouth is closed,” she explained. ALSO READ: Ten useful tips for your oral hygiene Rwanda offers dental care services at different levels, including health centres, and district hospitals. If necessary, patients can be referred to more advanced facilities for specialised treatment, she added. Research has shown that many systemic diseases can stem from oral health issues,” said Dr Achille Bizimana, who heads Rwanda’s Dental Surgeons Organisation. For example, he said, dental caries can contribute to heart disease. The bacteria responsible for cavities can enter the bloodstream and reach the heart’s lining, a condition known as infective endocarditis, potentially leading to heart complications. He also pointed out a connection between oral health and diabetes. Oral diseases can exacerbate diabetes, just as diabetes can negatively affect oral health, Dr Bizimana noted. Pregnant women and unborn children are also at risk. Periodontitis, a severe gum infection, has been linked to premature births and stillbirths, he added. ALSO READ: FEATURED: Experts urge swift action on neglected oral health, NCDs Dr Bizimana emphasised that oral diseases are largely preventable. Brushing twice a day—in the morning and before bed—is crucial. People should also limit their intake of sugary foods and visit a dentist at least twice a year. When patients come in late, treatment becomes more difficult and recovery takes longer, he said. Regular medical check-ups can help detect oral diseases early and prevent serious complications. Oral cancers, for instance, have been reported in Rwanda, often caused by smoking, particularly due to nicotine, he warned. “A 2018 study in Rwanda found that approximately 67 per cent of the population suffered from dental cavities, while globally, around 3.5 billion people are affected by oral diseases.” Children’s oral health also requires special care. If baby teeth are not properly maintained, they may fall out too soon, causing misalignment in permanent teeth. This can affect a child's ability to eat and speak properly, as well as their self-esteem and school performance, Dr Bizimana explained. Oral hygiene is not just about putting a toothbrush in your mouth. It requires proper technique and timing. Ideally, toothbrushes should be replaced every three months, yet some people use them for years. Improper storage can also lead to bacterial growth, making the toothbrush a health hazard instead of a hygiene tool. Prevention is always better than cure, Dr Bizimana concluded.
