A virtual session on oral health and wellness was held on Thursday, 26th March at 10:00 a.m. via Zoom, bringing together health professionals, entrepreneurs, and members of the NNEW
Lagos Chapter to mark World Oral Health Day.
The moderator, Uloma Nkemakolam, welcomed attendees and outlined the agenda, emphasizing the importance of oral health and its impact on overall well-being, particularly for women entrepreneurs.
In her opening remarks, The Chairperson,Dr. Ekaete Aniekan Etiebet welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of maintaining good oral health for confidence and general wellness. She expressed appreciation to the panelists for their contributions before the session proceeded with an opening prayer led by Monica Umoh and the national anthem.
The panel discussion featured experts including Professor Kehinde Umeizudike Professor Donna Chioma Umesi, and Dr. Oyapero Afolabi, who shared insights on the connection between oral health and general body health. Discussions revealed that poor oral hygiene could negatively affect vital systems such as the respiratory, cardiovascular, and digestive systems.
Dr. Afolabi elaborated on the link between gum disease and serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, noting that these conditions can both influence and be influenced by oral health status. The session also addressed the impact of stress on oral health, with experts explaining that stress can lead to unhealthy dietary habits and hormonal changes that increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Special attention was given to women’s oral health across different life stages.
The panel highlighted how hormonal changes during menopause can lead to reduced saliva production, bone density loss, and increased vulnerability to gum disease and tooth loss. Practical recommendations included regular dental visits, hydration, use of fluoride products, and chewing sugar-free gum.
The discussion also covered oral health concerns during pregnancy, with experts warning that bleeding gums should not be ignored, as they may be linked to complications such as preterm birth. Participants were advised to seek professional dental care for proper evaluation and treatment.
Other topics addressed included the management of dry mouth in elderly
individuals, causes and treatment of bad breath, tooth alignment issues, and effective oral hygiene practices for busy professionals. The panelists emphasized the importance of routine dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and avoiding harmful habits.
The event concluded with announcements of upcoming health initiatives, including the “September to Remember” programme, and a call for participants to complete attendance forms for potential follow-up dental
consultations.
The session reinforced the critical role of oral health in overall wellness and encouraged participants to adopt proactive dental care practices as part of a healthy lifestyle.