Dr. Kakra Bonsu Appiah, the Head of the Dental Department at Tema General Hospital, has emphasized the importance of proper dental care and early treatment for gum diseases. Contrary to popular belief, he clarified that rinsing the mouth with warm salt water only provides temporary relief and does not cure gum diseases.

Dr. Appiah explained that gum swelling often indicates advanced tooth decay, which can lead to more serious dental issues if left untreated. He stressed the significance of seeking professional dental care rather than self-medicating, as gum diseases can worsen and cause complications if not addressed promptly.

Highlighting the importance of preventive dentistry, Dr. Appiah urged Ghanaians to prioritize oral health and regularly visit dentists for check-ups. He emphasized that early detection of oral diseases can prevent more severe conditions and costly treatments later on.

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay, was identified as a prevalent condition at the Tema General Hospital, largely due to poor oral hygiene practices. Dr. Appiah underscored the need for proactive measures to prevent dental caries, as waiting until severe pain occurs often leads to tooth extraction, which is more costly and invasive.

In efforts to raise awareness about the importance of dental care, Dr. Appiah mentioned that the hospital has implemented education and sensitization programs targeting students and the general public.

Source: Source name: Elizabeth Larkwor Baah