KARACHI, Jan 4: Dental diseases have afflicted mankind since the dawn of recorded history and due to lack of awareness the disease is left to progress, resulting in poor prognosis.

This was stated by Dr Ninette Banday, Consultant Dental Surgeon at the Aga Khan University Hospital, while giving a presentation on common dental problems and their management at a monthly public health awareness programme of the hospital on Saturday.

Dr Sarah Anwarul Haque added that the two most common dental problems were dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal disease (gum disease).

These conditions often progress unnoticed, without symptoms and by the time any change was noticed, a significant tooth decay, gingivitis (early stage of gum disease) or even periodontitis (severe gum disease) would have been developed.

These are serious infections and if left untreated it can lead to tooth loss. The key to win the battle against these problems is prevention, which includes a combination of good dental habit (oral hygiene), improved nutrition and regular check-ups.—APP