Most Kenyans suffer from an oral disease often seen in form of receding gums, according to the Ministry of Health.
The disease, called periodontitis, is a serious infection of the gums caused by the accumulation of bacteria on teeth and gums, and poor brushing or no brushing at all.
As periodontitis progresses, the gum recedes as the teeth weaken.
The Kenya National Oral Health Strategic Plan 2022 – 2026 says this condition affects 90 per cent of Kenyans.
“Gingival inflammation (inflammation of the gums) was found in 98.1 per cent of the adults examined,” the plan, released late last year, says.
Damage by periodontitis damage can be stopped if the disease is treated early and proper oral hygiene is maintained.