Nearly 40 percent of people aged five and older in Rwanda are affected by untreated dental cavities, with children between one and nine particularly at risk. Approximately one in three children has cavities in their baby teeth, according to the Oral Health Rwanda 2022 Country Profile.
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Tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancers affect thousands of Rwandans, and children and men are among the most vulnerable, according to Samuel Mbagoroziki, the co-founder and Vice President of the Dento-Medical Society Rwanda (RDMS), a non-profit organization that promotes oral health in the country.
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Untreated cavities are the most common oral health problem in Rwanda. Mbagoroziki said gum disease is also common, affecting about 21 percent of adults aged 15 and older.
"Lip and oral cavity cancers are less common but on the rise. In 2020, Rwanda recorded 99 new cases, with men more affected than women, 1.9 per 100,000 compared to 0.8 per 100,000. About 2 percent of adults aged 20 and older have lost all their natural teeth, a condition known as edentulism,” he said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 3.7 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases. The WHO also notes that untreated dental caries in permanent teeth is the most common health condition globally, causing pain, discomfort, disfigurement, and, in some cases, death.
Lifestyle habits that contribute to the problem
Mbagoroziki noted that on average, a Rwandan consumes 25.8 grams of sugar a day, which increases the risk of cavities.
He added that tobacco and alcohol increase the risk of oral diseases.
About 14 percent of adults smoke, while the average adult consumes eight litres of alcohol each year. Combined, these habits make people more likely to develop gum disease and oral cancers.
"Children, men, and low-income workers are the most affected. Early tooth decay in children can permanently harm teeth and affect overall nutrition, while men are more likely to smoke and drink, putting them at higher risk of severe gum disease and oral cancer.
"Low-income workers may find it hard to afford fluoride toothpaste, since buying enough for a year can cost several days of their wages,” Mbagoroziki said.
Prevention
Mbagoroziki noted that oral diseases can be prevented through simple daily habits, such as brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugary drinks and snacks, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol.
He urges people to watch for early warning signs, such as visible cavities, soft spots on teeth, chronic gum inflammation, or unusual growths in the mouth or on the lips.
Public health facilities provide oral health screenings, pain relief, and treatment, with Mutuelle de Santé covering 85 percent of the population for routine preventive care and essential treatment, he added.