World Oral Health Day: A Unique Opportunity to Raise Awareness About Trigeminal Neuralgia and Oral Health
By Aneeta Prem
World Oral Health Day (WOHD), observed annually on March 20, is a global initiative led by the FDI World Dental Federation to highlight the importance of oral health and its deep connection to overall well-being. The symbolic date—3/20—represents the goal of 32 healthy teeth and 0 cavities, reinforcing the idea that good oral hygiene is essential for disease prevention and a better quality of life.
For individuals living with Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), maintaining oral health presents unique challenges. TN is a severe chronic pain disorder affecting the trigeminal nerve, which supplies sensation to the face, teeth, and gums. As a result, everyday activities like brushing, flossing, or visiting the dentist can trigger excruciating pain, leading to poor oral hygiene and increased dental problems.
WOHD provides a critical opportunity to raise awareness of the overlooked link between oral and neurological health, bridging the gap between dentists, neurologists, and healthcare providers.
Oral Health: More Than Just a Smile
Oral health is often reduced to cosmetic concerns, but it plays a far greater role in overall health than most people realise. The mouth is a gateway to the body, and poor oral hygiene can contribute to serious health conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular disease – Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart disease and strokes.
- Diabetes – Gum disease can worsen blood sugar control, making diabetes harder to manage.
- Respiratory infections – Poor oral health has been linked to pneumonia, as harmful bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs.
- Pregnancy complications – Severe gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight.
Beyond physical health, oral diseases carry a heavy social and economic burden, leading to:
- Pain and discomfort that disrupts daily life and nutrition.
- Self-esteem issues, especially in children and young adults.
- School absences and workplace productivity loss due to dental problems.
- High medical costs, particularly in regions with limited access to affordable dental care.
The Silent Crisis: Global Oral Health Challenges
Despite advancements in dentistry, oral diseases remain the most common health condition worldwide, affecting 3.5 billion people—almost half the global population. Yet, many of these conditions are preventable with simple, cost-effective interventions.
Who Faces the Greatest Risk?
- Children – Poor oral health in childhood can lead to missed school days and developmental issues. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children, yet it is largely preventable.
- Pregnant Women – Hormonal changes can make gums more susceptible to inflammation and infections.
- Older Adults – Clinical frailty has been linked to poor oral hygiene, tooth loss, and difficulty eating, affecting nutrition and quality of life.
- Low-Income and Vulnerable Communities – Lack of access to affordable dental care means oral diseases often go untreated, leading to serious complications.
World Oral Health Day The Intersection of Trigeminal Neuralgia and Oral Health
Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a neurological disorder that results in sudden, electric shock-like pain along the trigeminal nerve, which provides sensation to the face, teeth, and gums.
Why TN Is Often Misdiagnosed as a Dental Problem
Because TN pain commonly radiates through the jaw, gums, and teeth, it is frequently mistaken for:
- Tooth decay or abscesses
- Gum infections
- Cracked teeth or failed dental work
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
world oral health day
Many TN patients undergo unnecessary tooth extractions, root canals, and other dental procedures before receiving the correct diagnosis. This is not only traumatising but also delays access to effective neurological treatments, worsening the condition over time.
Oral Hygiene Challenges for TN Patients
For TN sufferers, maintaining good oral health is particularly challenging and painful due to hypersensitivity in the facial nerves. Routine activities that most people take for granted—such as brushing, flossing, or rinsing—can trigger:
- Sudden, stabbing pain lasting seconds to minutes
- Lingering soreness and burning sensations
- Fear of brushing or visiting the dentist, leading to dental neglect
Common Consequences of Oral Hygiene Avoidance in TN Patients
- Increased risk of cavities – Lack of brushing allows plaque to build up.
- Gum disease (gingivitis & periodontitis) – Bacteria can cause inflammation, leading to further pain.
- Tooth loss – Severe gum disease and decay can result in missing teeth.
Because TN pain is so unpredictable, sufferers often modify their routines to avoid triggering attacks—sometimes at the cost of their long-term dental health.
Fluoride: A Balanced Perspective
Fluoride is a widely debated topic in oral health. While it is proven to strengthen enamel and reduce cavities, concerns about potential health risks persist.
Benefits of Fluoride
- Strengthens tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay.
- Reduces cavity risk – Studies show 25-50% fewer cavities in fluoridated communities.
- Endorsed by WHO, NHS, and major dental associations as safe and effective.
Concerns About Fluoride
- Excess fluoride can cause fluorosis, leading to mild tooth discolouration.
- Some studies suggest high fluoride exposure may affect thyroid function, though findings remain inconclusive.
- Fluoride allergies are rare but possible, causing irritation in some individuals.
For TN sufferers, fluoride remains an essential tool in preventing dental decay, especially for those who struggle to brush regularly. High-fluoride toothpaste and fluoride varnishes provide extra protection with minimal effort.
Strategies for TN Patients: How to Maintain Oral Health Without Aggravating Pain
Despite the challenges, there are effective ways for TN patients to maintain oral hygiene while minimising pain:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush – Reduces gum irritation and pain.
- Opt for non-foaming, fluoride toothpaste – Many TN sufferers find that SLS-free (sodium lauryl sulfate-free) toothpaste is gentler on the nerves.
- Use lukewarm water – Extreme temperatures can trigger TN pain.
- Try antiseptic, alcohol-free mouthwash – Helps maintain hygiene when brushing is too painful.
- Use fluoride varnish treatments – These professional applications provide long-lasting protection against decay.
A Global Call to Action
On March 20th, let’s take a moment to prioritise oral health—not just for ourselves, but for our families, communities, and future generations.
Whether it’s by:
- Sharing knowledge on social media
- Encouraging someone to visit the dentist
- Advocating for better dental care policies
Every action helps build a healthier future.
As the WOHD slogan reminds us: “Be proud of your mouth—value it and take care of it.”
