Smita Kumar, the co-founder of Medicircle, recently conducted a webinar in honor of World Oral Health Day, bringing together esteemed speakers to shed light on the importance of oral health. The webinar featured two prominent figures in the dental field, who shared their expertise and insights on maintaining good oral hygiene.

Dr. V S Mohan, a distinguished Dental surgeon, consulting endodontist, and implantologist at Dente in Mumbai, graced the webinar with his extensive experience spanning over 45 years. His remarkable career includes serving as the president of the Indian Dental Association and the Indian Society of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Mohan's wealth of knowledge and expertise added significant value to the discussion on oral health myths and best practices. He emphasized the importance of debunking misconceptions about dental care.

One prevalent myth is that individuals should only visit a dentist when experiencing tooth pain. However, Dr. Mohan highlighted that extracting a tooth to alleviate pain is not a sustainable solution, as teeth serve various vital functions beyond just chewing. Furthermore, Dr. Mohan dispelled the notion that avoiding sweets alone can prevent tooth decay. He stressed the significance of brushing teeth after meals and incorporating flossing into daily oral hygiene routines. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of gum care, as neglecting gum health can have serious consequences.

Dr. Pranjan Mitra, co-founder of Denta Mitra and a seasoned dental professional, addressed the challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z in maintaining oral hygiene amidst hectic lifestyles and junk food consumption. He emphasized the need to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of excessive sugar intake in the form of energy drinks and advocated for a balanced Indian diet.

The discussion also touched upon the efficacy of electric toothbrushes compared to manual ones. Dr. Mohan emphasized that the brushing technique should be tailored to individual teeth, with the recommended brushing time being 2 minutes. He also highlighted the misconception that dental treatments are solely cosmetic, emphasizing their importance in maintaining overall health and preventing conditions like Alzheimer's.

Responding to queries about teeth whitening, Dr. Mitra clarified that while teeth whitening can be beneficial in certain cases, it is not necessary for everyone. He cautioned against relying on advertisements showcasing unnaturally white teeth, as they often use lighting tricks to enhance the appearance.

Regarding dental checkups, both experts recommended biannual to annual visits to ensure early detection and prevention of dental issues. They also discussed the potential benefits of green tea for oral health, noting that while it may provide some assistance, it is not a substitute for proper oral hygiene practices.

In conclusion, Dr. Mohan and Dr. Mitra emphasized the importance of regular dental care, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and maintaining a balanced diet for optimal oral health. They reiterated that oral health is integral to overall well-being and encouraged individuals to prioritize their dental hygiene to lead healthier lives.