Dental experts have raised an alarm over the high prevalence of untreated dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay, stressing the urgent need for improved oral hygiene practices and reduced consumption of refined carbohydrates between meals.

They warned that poor oral hygiene contributes to a range of dental problems, including cavities, gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), bad breath, tooth loss, and even the worsening of certain systemic health conditions.

Programme Coordinator and Community Engagement Manager of Ideal Dental Foundation International, Dr Wisdom Okereke, told The Guardian that the government must begin to integrate oral health into the country’s primary healthcare system to widen access.

Similarly, the Foundation’s lead dentist, Dr Sopuruchi Nweke, described oral health as a vital but often neglected aspect of healthcare. “There is no general health without oral health. Most oral health issues are preventable. Brushing morning and night goes a long way to preventing people from developing these problems,” Nweke said.

She added that many Nigerians pay little attention to oral care and urged citizens to embrace proper hygiene habits, including visiting the dentist at least twice a year.

On her part, Programme Manager of Ideal Dental Services, Mrs Temitope Babatunde, noted that oral health is one of the most overlooked areas of public health in Nigeria. She attributed this to low awareness, poor infrastructure, a shortage of dentists, and limited access to affordable care, particularly in rural communities.

“Nigerians often do not see oral care as a priority, yet many major diseases originate from the mouth. Beyond brushing, people need proper orientation on how to care for their oral health. Unfortunately, we do not have enough tutors to drive this education,” Babatunde said.