The Dentist is In

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Oral health is an essential component of overall well-being, yet it often receives less attention than other aspects of healthcare. In the Philippines, maintaining good oral health remains a significant public health challenge. Despite growing awareness, many Filipinos continue to face barriers to proper dental care due to economic, cultural …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Brushing our teeth is such an ordinary part of daily life that we rarely stop to think about where the toothbrush came from. Yet this simple tool, essential for maintaining oral hygiene, has a fascinating history that spans thousands of years and multiple civilizations. The toothbrush, as we know it …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Smoking is widely recognized as a major threat to general health. Its impact on oral health, however, is often underestimated. The mouth is one of the first parts of the body exposed to tobacco smoke, making it particularly vulnerable to damage. From bad breath and tooth discoloration to severe diseases …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but often overlooked condition in oral health. It affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It develops when plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — builds up along and under the gumline. Without proper care, gum disease can …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. It affects people of all ages. Tooth decay occurs when the hard outer layer of the teeth, known as enamel, is gradually destroyed by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Although …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Edentulism is not just the complete loss of natural teeth. It also means partial loss. It is a significant public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While often associated with aging, tooth loss can occur at any age due to various factors, including poor oral hygiene, disease and …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Good oral health is more than just having a bright smile. It’s an essential part of overall well-being. The mouth serves as the gateway to the body, and maintaining its health helps prevent infections, diseases and discomfort that can affect daily life. Practicing effective oral hygiene, visiting the dentist regularly, …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Try burning all sorts of plastic. You’ll find out that most of them (except most notably PVCs) burning quickly and cleanly, with almost no smoke and no ash. Why you might ask? It’s because plastics are mostly composed of carbon and hydrogen. They burn cleanly to produce carbon dioxide and …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim It’s normal to have bacteria in your mouth. But harmful bacteria have been linked to a host of health problems. Medical scientist Glenda Davison and microbiologist Yvonne Prince, who have researched the oral cavity, explain why it’s so important to practice good oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can lead to …

By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Dr. Adekemi Adeniyan is a rural dentist first and foremost. She works in one of the world’s most challenging settings, in Nigeria where fewer than two in 10 persons have access to oral health care where dental health remains one of the most neglected areas of public health. Dr. Adeniyan …