The other day while watching some children playing, it got me thinking, kids play “doctor” and “cops and robbers” and “store.” But have you ever seen your kids playing “dentist?” I bet not.
Maybe we as a society do not place enough importance on good oral health. It’s surprising; after all, oral health is tied to overall health. Terrible conditions like heart disease and diabetes are tied to dental disease. If we all took our oral health as seriously as our overall health, we’d be a much healthier population indeed.
So why aren’t people aware of the importance of dental health? We know some of the answers. Some people may understand that seeing a dentist is important, but cannot afford dental care. These folks view it as a luxury, and its importance diminishes. Do you want dinner tonight or do you want that cavity filled? I know what I would choose.
Other people follow the routine, they visit the dentist twice a year, and brush and floss daily, but they have no idea about the serious connection between their mouth and body. Going to the dentist is simply a mundane chore to check off the To Do list.
Regardless of why people don’t recognize the importance of good oral health, it is still very important. It truly can make or break your overall health. I wonder when society will buy into the concept.