The Kwara State Government has urged residents to prioritise oral hygiene by maintaining the health of the teeth, gums, and other tissues in the mouth.

Dr Amina El-Imam, the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, made the call on Wednesday in Ilorin during the opening ceremony of a three-day free oral health outreach.

The outreach was organised by the state government in partnership with Pharma Deko PLC.

Represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr Oluwatosin Fakayode, the commissioner described oral health as a vital but often overlooked aspect of overall healthcare.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving oral health across the state, stressing that it was a key component of general wellbeing.

“Oral health is the cornerstone of overall health, yet it is often neglected.

“Poor oral hygiene contributes to several non-communicable diseases, though its effects are gradual and often unnoticed until they become serious,” she said.

El-Imam commended the recent renovation and equipping of the state’s dental clinic and encouraged residents to take full advantage of the outreach by accessing free dental checks and receiving professional guidance on oral hygiene.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Pharma Deko PLC, Mr Ishola Olukayode, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting oral health in Nigeria.

He warned that many people unknowingly use harmful substances on their teeth due to a lack of awareness, putting their health at risk.

Olukayode stressed that oral hygiene extended beyond brushing, highlighting the importance of regular professional check-ups and community education.

Delivering a lecture at the event, Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Kasali Ajao, noted that brushing alone addressed only about 40 per cent of oral hygiene needs.

He recommended professional procedures such as scaling and polishing at least twice a year for comprehensive oral care.(NAN