Available statistics suggest that only 50% of Sri Lankans brush their teeth twice a day, the Health Ministry has stated.
This was highlighted during a press briefing in Colombo yesterday (March 19) held to mark the World Oral Health Day which falls today (March 20).
Speaking, Consultant Dental Surgeon and vice secretary of the Sri Lanka Dental Association – Dr. Nilantha Ratnayake has stated that this leads to tooth decay, heavily impacting oral health.
He also noted that 3/4 of Sri Lankans inflicted with oral diseases have been identified to be hailing from low income households.
Dr. Ratnayake further stated the high consumption of sugar and not using toothpaste with fluoride as major reasons for oral health issues in Sri Lanka.