Oral diseases affect approximately 3.5 billion people worldwide, making them the most prevalent health condition globally. 
 
These diseases have persisted as the most widespread conditions for decades, with significant disparities in access to dental care between and within countries.

This week is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the significance of oral health and its profound impact on one's overall well-being.
 
The purpose of observing National Oral Health Week is primarily to raise awareness among the public about the importance of good oral health practices.
 
In a speech delivered on his behalf by the regional health director, Dr. Anna Jonas, Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, says that oral health is a cornerstone of general health.
 
Shangula says that it influences everyone's ability to eat, speak, and interact confidently, free from pain or embarrassment.
 
However, he says more than that, poor oral health can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
 
Therefore, he says, maintaining good oral hygiene is not simply about having a bright smile but also about ensuring a healthier life.

"According to the 2010 National Oral Health Survey conducted by the Ministry of Health and Social Services, 37.8% of children aged 1–9 suffered from untreated caries in their deciduous teeth, and 32.1% of individuals aged 5 years and older had untreated caries in their permanent teeth. Moreover, 23.6% of people aged 15 and older were found to have severe periodontal disease, while 11.2% of adults aged 20 and above were affected by edentulism."

The theme for this year, "A Healthy Mouth is a Healthy Body," reminds us of the critical link between oral health and overall well-being.
 
Together, Shangula says the nation can reduce the burden of oral diseases and enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

"Faced with this reality, the government has taken decisive action. In response to the growing oral health problem, we sent students to Cuba to study dentistry. I am pleased to report that all 50 of these students have returned and are now being inducted into our healthcare system, ready to tackle the immense task of providing dental care across our hospitals. Furthermore, the University of Namibia has taken on the noble task of training our future dentists, contributing to our goal of developing a robust healthcare workforce."

Also speaking at the event was Erongo Region Governor Neville Andre, who encouraged the nation to brush their teeth twice per day for at least two minutes with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, including the tongue, to remove bad breath-causing bacteria.

"A healthy mouth is a healthy body,"  which aims to link the mouth to the physical body. Did you know that your mouth can tell you a lot about the health of your body? The mouth shows signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems or underlying health concerns. It can also show signs of other diseases caused by, for example, missing certain foods from your diet, unhealthy habits such as using tobacco and tobacco-like products, and alcohol."

The Ministry also made great strides in expanding access to dental care across the country; to date, 35 out of 36 health districts have stationed dentists, a remarkable improvement from just 9 dental clinics at independence. 

The ministry also started with mobile dental clinics and school health initiatives as keys to improving oral health in underserved areas.

These mobile units bring much-needed services, including dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and essential treatments, to remote communities.