PHCC recommends dental check-up before travelling for Hajj

Doha, Qatar: Maintaining oral health to avoid pain and discomfort especially while undertaking Hajj pilgrimage is important, reminds oral health exper...

Doha, Qatar: Maintaining oral health to avoid pain and discomfort especially while undertaking Hajj pilgrimage is important, reminds oral health expert at Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC).     

Dr. Najat Al Yafei, Manager of Oral Health Promotion and Prevention Department at PHCC, recommends undergoing dental check-up before travelling to detect any dental or gum problems and to ensure the safety of existing dental restorations. In addition, it’s essential to pack a kit containing all the necessary oral hygiene tools, such as a toothbrush, miswak, toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss based on the individual needs.

Pilgrims must steer clear of stress since an excessive stress, tension and anxiety can trigger the formation of oral ulcers, worsening fungal oral infection. Stress weakens the immune system, which serves as the body’s defence shield against infections. Anxiety and tension can also result in teeth grinding/ bruxism, ultimately leading to tooth sensitivity. 

Dr Al Yafei added that pilgrims should be vigilant to prevent any injury or falls, as some may experience collisions or falls due to variations in pilgrims’ heights and fast-paced movement in crowded areas or slipping on wet floors causing oral and dental injuries. Pilgrims should also refrain from opening the bottles and cans’ caps using their teeth.   

She advises pilgrims to maintain oral hydration by drinking plenty of water, as it helps in preventing dry mouth and the buildup of bacteria which cause bad breath. Approximately 85% of bad breath cases result from dry mouth or insufficient saliva. It’s crucial for pilgrims to avoid detrimental habits such as consuming sticky or hard foods to prevent gum injuries or accidental damage to dental fillings or restorations.