The week encompassing November 22, Turkish Dentistry Day, is celebrated annually in our country as "Oral and Dental Health Week." This week, which marks the opening of the first "Dental School" on November 22, 1908, and the beginning of scientific dental education in Turkey, serves to raise awareness about the importance of oral and dental health and emphasize preventive health measures. As Istanbul Rumeli University, we contribute to awareness-raising efforts during this important week and aim to increase public consciousness about community health.
Early Awareness is Key for a Healthy Future
It is crucial to instill the right habits from childhood to protect oral and dental health. Preventive dentistry practices, such as healthy eating, regular oral hygiene, and fluoride treatments, support dental health. Parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals play an essential role in this regard, while children developing good oral care habits from an early age lay the foundation for lifelong health. The development of teeth and the eruption of milk teeth, which start in infancy, is a critical period during which these habits begin to take shape.
Healthy Nutrition Principles for Dental Health Protection
Healthy nutrition plays a significant role in protecting dental health. As Istanbul Rumeli University, we emphasize the following fundamental nutrition principles to protect dental health:
The consumption of healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products should be encouraged.
Foods high in sugar and sugary carbonated drinks should be avoided.
The use of pacifiers and baby bottles should be minimized; if used, they should be cleaned carefully, and children should switch to cups after one year of age.
The shared use of spoons and forks should be avoided.
How Should Effective Oral Care Be Done?
Regular oral care is essential to protect dental health. As Istanbul Rumeli University, we recommend the following for effective oral care:
Teeth should be brushed effectively twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
The toothbrush should be replaced when the bristles become worn.
The toothbrush should not be wet before brushing, and only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be used.
All surfaces of the teeth should be carefully brushed.
Steps from Istanbul Rumeli University for Preventive Health
At Istanbul Rumeli University, we aim to raise awareness about oral and dental health in society from an early age, promote preventive dental practices, and improve the quality of oral and dental health services across the country. In this context, we continue our efforts to help children acquire the right habits to protect their oral and dental health, create public awareness, and increase the importance given to dental health.
On the occasion of Oral and Dental Health Week, we invite all members of society to become more aware of protecting their oral and dental health and to make healthy habits a part of their lifestyle.
