(By Dr. Joseph D. Lim and Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI)
OQ is Oral Health Quotient.
And knowing your OQ is the same as knowing your IQ which measures cognitive intelligence or EQ which reflects emotional intelligence.
The Colgate-Palmolive Company has committed over $100 million in the next five years to address a global health crisis affecting nearly half the world’s population. At center stage is Know Your OQ™.
The initiative aims to ensure that oral health is part of public health strategies.
Colgate-Palmolive launched the program and the Know Your OQ™ website in early February.
You can now take a free, interactive assessment to determine your OQ score by visiting www.KnowYourOQ.com.
The website includes compelling information about the depth and breadth of the global oral health crisis and provides educational resources for primary care physicians, nurses and educational leaders as well as consumers to improve oral hygiene, encourage healthier habits and promote overall
health.
Know Your OQ™ will show the links between oral health and overall health, and to maintain proper oral hygiene.
“Research has consistently shown that oral health is a window to overall health, yet oral health literacy is very low,” says Dr. Maria Ryan, Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at Colgate-Palmolive. “That’s why we’re on a mission to help people increase their oral health knowledge with Know Your OQ™.
“If we all understand the importance of oral health and embrace simple, proven preventative strategies, we can help decrease risk for oral diseases and empower people worldwide to join in the fight against oral diseases that impact overall health and well-being.”
According to a Colgate-Palmolive press release, about 3.5 billion people worldwide currently suffer from oral diseases.
Despite the proven strategies for prevention, cavities remain the most prevalent chronic disease among adults and children. It is estimated that 2.3 billion people suffer from tooth decay.
Periodontal or gum disease is among the most common ailments, with severe gum diseases, which may result in tooth loss, affecting one in 10 of the global population.
The crisis of oral disease has significant consequences since oral health has impacts for physical health and emotional wellbeing, Colgate-Palmolive says.
Research shows that oral health is linked to other physical health conditions. A global Colgate study found that childhood cavities lead to worry, anxiety and sadness in both kids and their parents.
“Studies show there are links, between chronic infections and inflammation, and medical conditions like cardiovascular disease and stroke, with common oral diseases being identified as contributors to increased risk for a number of systemic disorders,” says Dr. Nieca Goldberg, a recognized pioneer in women’s heart health, cardiologist and Medical Director of Atria New York City.
“The mouth is a source of bacteria and inflammation impacting overall health. It’s critical that the medical community consider the importance of oral health to provide the best care for our patients.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on oral care habits. A study published in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry found that the frequency of toothbrushing, use of dental services, and self-perceived need for dental treatment significantly decreased among adolescents during the pandemic.
The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day. However, a OnePoll survey has found that two in 10 or 22 percent of adults in the United Kingdom now go more than three days without brushing their teeth.
The same survey found that more than a quarter of adults do not think that poor oral health could lead to wider health complications.
***
Dr. Joseph D. Lim is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; and Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
***
Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; Member, American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com/PN
