Men's Health - Men's Newsroom

The results of the territory-wide Oral Health Survey 2001 conducted by the Department of Health have been announced recently. The survey showed that the oral health of the Hong Kong population had improved over the years. There was a slight decrease in the percentage of adults (aged 35 to 44) who had experience of tooth decay. However, there was evidence that both tooth decay and gum diseases were usually overlooked by Hong Kong people. About one-third of adults had untreated decay. Most of the adults had experienced various oral health problems such as bad breath, bleeding gums, sensitivity to hot and cold, and pain that disturbed sleeping. However, the percentages of them seeking dental treatment for these conditions were relatively low.

Regarding dental care, although the survey showed that tooth brushing was mostly practised by the local population, interdental cleaning such as flossing was not a social norm. Moreover, almost three out of four adults did not seek regular dental check-up. Regular dental check-ups enable early diagnosis and treatment of dental problem, and provide an opportunity for professionally applied prevention therapy.

Having good oral health is important for men. You would feel better and look more attractive if you have strong teeth and fresh breath. Here are some oral health tips:

1. Perform teeth cleaning preferably twice a day, by proper tooth brushing with fluoride-containing toothpaste and appropriate interdental cleaning.
2. Seek regular dental check-up for prevention, early detection and management of oral health problems.
3. Adopt a good dietary habit by reducing snacking frequency, especially sugar-containing snacks, and by seeking medical advice for special dietary requirement.
4. Refrain from smoking, or quit smoking and reduce the consumption of alcohol.

If you want more details on oral health, please visit the Department of Health Oral Health Education Unit website at www.toothclub.gov.hk.