CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – “DOH aims for all Filipinos to have at least 20 healthy and functional teeth by age 70,” said dentist Edward Sta. Ana of the Family Health Cluster, Department of Health-Center for Health Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM).
Speaking at the Talakayan sa PIA media forum for Oral Health Month 2025, Dr. Sta. Ana highlighted the department’s goal of empowering Filipino families to achieve Ngiting [Smile] 70/20, stressing that healthy teeth support proper chewing, digestion, and nutrient absorption.
To achieve this, the department focuses on preventive care, including fillings, cleaning, checkups, and health promotion—not just extractions.
He stressed that tooth extraction should always be the last resort.
“We want to break the misconception that people should visit the dentist only when they have toothaches and need an extraction. By then, it’s already the worst-case scenario,” he explained.
He observed that many Filipinos seek dental care only in severe cases of tooth decay.
“Many people visit health centers solely for tooth extractions. It’s unfortunate because extraction should always be the last option,” he said.
Sta. Ana reiterated that DOH, in partnership with local governments and health centers, offers year-round preventive dental care—fillings, cleaning, and checkups—rather than just extractions.
“Teeth are essential tools for nutrition. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing should be daily habits at home and work. Oral health and nutrition go hand in hand—poor nutrition harms oral health, and vice versa. We want to preserve teeth at a young age to maintain good nutrition throughout life, ultimately improving the health and well-being of every Filipino,” he said. (JMORucat/PIA-10)
