By Justina Auta
Oral health experts have identified bad breath, also known as halitosis, as a significant factor contributing to psychosocial disorders, impacting individuals’ confidence, relationships, and overall well-being.
The experts made this statement at an event organised by the Nigeria Dental Association (NDA), FCT Chapter, to mark the 2025 World Oral Health Day celebration on Thursday in Abuja.
The theme for the 2025 celebration is “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind.”
The Chairman of the NDA FCT chapter, Dr Theophilus Agho emphasised the need for increased public education on oral hygiene to reduce halitosis-induced social anxiety and depression, and to promote individuals’ overall well-being.
He pointed out that the stigma surrounding bad breath could lead to emotional and mental health challenges.
“Some people suffer from bad breath, and because of this, they develop psychosocial disorders.
“They find it difficult to relate well in public, leading to social withdrawal, which affects their self-esteem and relationships,” Agho said.
He also mentioned that crooked teeth, which prevent individuals from smiling, could have similar effects on mental health.
“There is a link between oral health and a healthy mind,” he added.
Agho advised individuals to adopt good oral hygiene practices, including eating healthy foods and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups to improve their quality of life.
He emphasised the significance of maintaining oral health, pointing out that the mouth was the gateway to the body and that our consumption directly impacted our overall health
“The mouth is the gateway to the body. Whatever we eat or whatever comes through our mouth eventually gets to our body.
“We discourage snacking on sugary foods, as they break down in the mouth and form acids that lead to cavities.
“Instead, we encourage people to eat vegetables and fruits and maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, having periodic dental checkups, and changing toothbrushes every three months, Agho explained.
The Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) at National Hospital Abuja, Dr Abba Badamasi stated, “If your mouth is not healthy, you are not healthy.
“The mouth is the gateway into our body system, and all parts of the mouth, from the lips to the teeth, tongue, and pharynx, are crucial to our overall health.
“If the mouth is not healthy, the mind is not healthy, and the person is not healthy.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Vitalis Emeka-Obi also highlighted that oral health services were part of human capital development within the national development plan.
“Health is a major index of our growth and strength as an economy. That is why the government budgets significant funds to develop the health sector,” he said.
World Oral Health Day is celebrated every March 20 to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to improve their oral health.
The day also encourages researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to promote oral health in their communities.
Other activities organised by the NDA included a sensitisation walk and advocacy efforts to raise public awareness about the importance of prioritising oral health.
NAN
