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 …
The Dentist is In
Gum disease, the why and what
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 …
Tooth decay, the why and what
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 …
Edentulism affects all of us
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 …
Oral health care, why you should be concerned
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, …
Incinerators and plastics in PH (Part 1)
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 …
Bad oral hygiene linked to cancer, heart attacks
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 …
Rural dentist, global leader
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 …
Why Americans seek dental care here
By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Dental care in the United States is expensive. Period. This is the main reason why Americans seek oral health care in Southeast Asia, in places like Bangkok and Manila. Overseas dental care is big business, a part of the $4 billion annual expenses that Americans spend on health care abroad. …
Alarming sugar consumption
By Dr. Joseph D. Lim The sugar consumption habits in the United Kingdom are alarming. In what it calls “staggering” numbers, the Oral Health Foundation says that eight out of 10 of the UK population consume at least one sugary snack and about that number up to three sugary snacks — each and every day. …