September 20 National Love Teeth Day | Focus on Oral Science Popularization, Share a Healthy Life

September 20 National Love Teeth Day | Focus on Oral Science Popularization, Share a Healthy Life

September 20, 2025 Marks the 37th "National Love Teeth Day"

Theme: "Oral Health, Whole-Body Health"

Sub-theme: "Reduce Sugar Intake, Control Weight; Protect Teeth, Promote Health"

Event Content and Arrangements

I. Adopt a Scientific Diet to Promote Oral and Overall Health

Oral diseases share common risk factors with many chronic conditions. Excessive intake of high-sugar, high-fat, high-salt, and low-fiber foods is not only linked to obesity, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and cancer but also closely associated with dental caries, periodontal diseases, and dental erosion.

A scientifically balanced diet not only supports healthy tooth development and prevents common oral issues like dental caries, periodontal diseases, and dental erosion but also helps prevent obesity and chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.

II. Learn to Identify Sugars and Understand "Free Sugars"

Sugars are categorized into non-free sugars and free sugars. Non-free sugars refer to fructose naturally present in fresh fruits, lactose in dairy products, and starch in grains and tubers. Free sugars include two types: (1) sucrose, glucose, fructose, syrups, etc., added to foods during production, preparation, or processing; and (2) sugars naturally occurring in pure fruit juices, concentrated fruit juices, and honey.

Although sugar is an essential nutrient, total sugar intake should still be controlled. Excessive consumption of free sugars increases the risks of dental caries and obesity.

III. Limit Free Sugar Intake and Manage Weight Scientifically

"Reducing sugar" generally refers to cutting back on free sugars. Sugary beverages, candies, and processed snacks are major sources of free sugars. It is recommended to consume no more than 50 grams of free sugars daily, preferably less than 25 grams. Children under 2 years old should avoid free sugar intake altogether.

Beyond limiting quantity, reducing the frequency of free sugar consumption benefits both oral health and the prevention/management of overweight and obesity in both children and adults.

IV. Reduce Intake of Acidic Foods and Beverages

pH value measures acidity/alkalinity, and the critical pH threshold for enamel demineralization is 5.5. Oral bacteria break down free sugars into acidic substances, lowering oral pH below 5.5. This directly erodes and damages tooth enamel, leading to dental erosion and caries.

When consuming sugary or acidic drinks, use a straw to minimize contact with teeth and prevent erosion/caries. Rinse the mouth promptly after meals to remove food debris and neutralize acidic oral environments.

V. Maintain Thorough Oral Hygiene for Optimal Oral Health

Unhealthy dietary habits and dental plaque are the primary contributors to dental caries and periodontal diseases. Beyond a balanced diet and sugar/acid limitation, removing dental plaque is fundamental to oral health.

Brushing is the most effective method to eliminate plaque, soft deposits, and food debris. It is advised to learn proper brushing techniques, use fluoride toothpaste, and supplement with tools like dental floss, interdental brushes, and water flossers to clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth. Brush at least twice daily—morning and night—with nighttime brushing being particularly important. Chewing sugar-free gum or using mouthwash after meals can further enhance oral cleanliness.

VI. Cultivate the Habit of Regular Oral Health Check-Ups

Oral diseases often progress slowly and typically show no obvious symptoms in their early stages, making them difficult to detect without regular screening.

Routine oral health check-ups enable early detection and timely treatment of oral issues.

Preliminary Review: Zhang Jie

Final Review: Zhang Lihong