Good oral health supports the health of our whole body. Maintaining a healthy mouth helps reduce harmful bacteria and inflammation that can enter the bloodstream and affect the entire body. This can prevent or reduce the risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections.
That's why, this April, during National Oral Health Month in Canada, we're promoting the importance of oral health for overall well-being. Guided by First Nations teachings, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) views oral health as part of wholistic wellness that supports physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.
The FNHA works to provide access to oral health care that is culturally safe, respectful, and accessible. We support oral health in First Nations communities through initiatives such as the Children's Oral Health Initiative and Community Oral Health Services.
Tips for taking care of your oral health
Tooth decay is preventable, and daily healthy habits help keep teeth strong. Here are some ways to care for your oral health:
- Enjoy traditional First Nations foods, as they support strong oral and physical health.
- Brush twice a day for two to four minutes using a soft (or extra soft!) toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to clean between teeth.
- Brush or gently scrape the tongue to remove bacteria and plaque.
- Have sweets or treats with meals rather than between meals, as frequent sugar exposure (whether natural or processed) increases the risk of tooth decay.
- Choose water as your main drink. Try to avoid sipping sugary or carbonated drinks throughout the day.
- Chew Xylitol gum for about five minutes after eating to help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
- Avoid smoking or vaping with commercial tobacco. Tobacco is sacred and should be treated with respect.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Remove dentures at night, clean them with a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild liquid soap, then allow them to dry rather than storing them in a closed container.
Tips for taking care of your young children's oral health
- Brush children's teeth until around age eight, as this is when children typically develop the hand skills needed to brush effectively on their own.
- Ask your dental provider about pit and fissure sealants, a protective coating placed on the grooves of teeth to help prevent cavities, especially for children.
- See the FNHA's Children's Oral Health Initiative page for free resources and oral health information for children.
Accessing your dental benefits
The FNHA Dental Benefit supports regular access to essential preventive and restorative services, such as oral exams and dental cleaning. Most oral health concerns can be treated, especially when found early, and most people benefit from visiting their oral health provider at least once a year. Some people may benefit from more frequent preventive visits, based on their individual oral health needs.
The FNHA Medical Transportation Benefit supports access to medically necessary care not available in your community of residence, including essential dental services such as preventive care, restorative treatment, and orthodontics.
Learn more about what is covered and how to access your dental benefits here.
Resources:
BC Dental Association: Daily Dental Care (website)
Canadian Dental Association: Your Oral Health (website)
Daily Denture and Mouth Care (PDF)
