To: Dr. Alpha Tejan Wurie
Minister of Health and Sanitation
4th Floor Youyi Building
Brookfields, Freetown
19th May, 2020
Dear Dr. Alpha Tejan Wurie,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you today as a graduate Dental Nurse of Dental Nursing Academy in the United Kingdom (UK) and would like to offer my advice about oral health.
Sierra Leone has a rich culture and history, but it has also been facing a major oral health crisis. Therefore, I feel it is crucial that the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone places a strong emphasis on promoting oral health and providing access to dental care for all citizens.
First and foremost, education about oral hygiene should be made a priority especially during times like these when COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted Dentistry. Citizens in Sierra Leone should be taught about the importance of brushing and flossing, as well as how to properly care for their teeth. This education should be provided in schools, as well as through public health campaigns. Additionally, promoting healthy food choices can greatly impact the health of citizens’ teeth and gums.
Furthermore, access to dental care should be expanded across Sierra Leone, especially in the rural and underserved areas. Providing mobile dental clinics, or partnering with local organisations to provide dental services, can greatly improve the oral health of the people of Sierra Leone.
Oral health is closely related to overall health and well-being. Poor oral health can lead to a range of poor health conditions; including tooth decay, gum disease, and other infections that can cause pain and discomfort. In turn, these conditions can contribute to a variety of other health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections.
In addition, untreated oral health problems can also lead to more serious health issues such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. These conditions can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and ability to maintain good health.
Lastly, it is important to have proper regulations in place to ensure that dental practices in Sierra Leone are safe and effective. This includes proper training and certification for dental professionals, as well as the implementation of infection control protocols in dental offices.
In conclusion, I strongly believe that by prioritising oral health and implementing these suggestions, the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone can make a positive impact on the overall health and well-being of its citizens. Thank you for considering my advice.
Sincerely,
[Haja Kadie Kamara-Chelmsford, United Kingdom]
Editor’s Note: This letter is published unedited