Health Sector Stakeholders Call For Effective Oral Hygiene In FCT

By: Prudence Okonna

The Centre for School Health Education and Environmental Hygiene (CSHEEH), in collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), FCT Chapter, has emphasized the strong link between oral health and mental well-being, as good oral hygiene can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

This was highlighted during the 2025 World Oral Health Day (WOHD) commemoration at Noble Stride Academy, Sokale Dutse, Abuja, Wednesday.

Executive Director of CSHEEH, Dr. Folasade Momoh, who spoke at the event, underscored the importance of this year’s WOHD theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind.”

Momoh noted that oral health plays a crucial role in overall well-being; stressing that poor oral hygiene can lead to low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, and social discomfort, ultimately affecting mental health.

She explained that the essence of the visit was to educate pupils on the implications of oral health on mental well-being and, most importantly, encourage them to practice proper oral hygiene.

The Executive Director reaffirmed CSHEEH’s commitment to promoting health education among young people and fostering daily oral care habits for better overall health.

Also speaking at the occasion, the Chairman of the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), FCT Chapter, Dr. Agho Theophilus, elaborated on the far-reaching effects of poor oral health, particularly its impact on self-esteem and general health.

Represented by the Vice Chairman, Dr. Ogunsanya Ayomide, he emphasized that a person’s oral health is directly linked to their mental well-being.

His words: “Oral health is regarded as the gateway to the human body and one of the most important aspects of overall health. If oral hygiene is compromised, it affects the entire body system. For instance, halitosis (bad breath), often caused by improper brushing techniques or lack of access to dental care, can make children shy away from speaking due to fear of being ridiculed, ultimately affecting their mental health.”

He further explained that oral health issues can sometimes signal underlying medical conditions.

“By examining oral health, we can detect systemic conditions such as diabetes. Many individuals are unaware of their health challenges until a dental examination reveals early symptoms. This underscores the importance of regular dental check-ups for overall health monitoring,” he added.

Theophilus also commended CSHEEH for its consistency in championing oral health awareness, particularly among children.

Welcoming guests, the Head Teacher of Noble Stride Academy, Annabel Olawoye, expressed gratitude to the visiting dental professionals and emphasized the importance of instilling healthy oral habits in pupils from a young age.

While appreating CSHEEH for visiting, she underscored the need for stronger collaboration between educational institutions and health experts to promote oral health awareness among students.

Abuja Digest reports that major highlight of the event was the free dental check-up provided for pupils and staff.
In addition, attendees received free toothbrushes, toothpaste, and bookmarks containing oral health tips to encourage sustained hygiene practices and a total of 112 children at Noble Stride Academy benefited from these services.