Доктор Чиньере Анигбогу призвала нигерийцев отказаться от жестких щеток и инвестировать в профилактику стоматологических заболеваний

Speaking during an exclusive interview on 90MinutesAfrica with broadcaster Rudolf Okonkwo, Dr. Anigbogu said most Nigerians prefer hard- or medium-bristle toothbrushes because they believe they clean teeth more effectively. A United States-based oral healthcare advocate, Dr. Chinyere Anigbogu, has expressed concern about poor oral hygiene practices among Nigerians, noting that a vast majority of the population still uses the wrong type of toothbrush, thereby exposing themselves to long-term dental complications. Speaking during an exclusive interview on 90MinutesAfrica with broadcaster Rudolf Okonkwo, Dr. Anigbogu said most Nigerians prefer hard- or medium-bristle toothbrushes because they believe they clean teeth more effectively. According to her, this misconception has resulted in severe damage to the teeth and gums, particularly among older adults. The Nigerian-born health executive explained that a soft-bristle toothbrush is the only type recommended for proper oral care, noting that when used correctly, it effectively removes bacteria without damaging the gums or wearing away the teeth. Dr. Anigbogu also lamented the low level of awareness about preventive dental care in Nigeria, observing that only a small proportion of Nigerians, mainly among the educated elite, appreciate the importance of routine dental visits. Drawing on her collaborations with dentists in Nigeria, she said many people seek professional dental care only after developing severe toothaches. She described this approach as harmful because many dental conditions can be prevented or treated early before they become serious. The co-owner of Washington Dental Care in Georgia, USA, appeared on 90MinutesAfrica with her 16-year-old son, Jason, who wrote a book about his life called "My Life: A Story of Strength, Faith, and Family." Dr. Anigbogu criticized the widespread belief in traditional remedies for treating toothaches. According to her, some people still rely on herbal mixtures believed to force out "worms" responsible for dental pain, a claim she dismissed as medically unfounded. "Dentistry is mechanical," she explained, adding that once a tooth becomes diseased or damaged, professional treatment is often required rather than relying on medications. She urged Nigerians to embrace regular dental check-ups, stressing that brushing alone cannot eliminate all harmful bacteria. She noted that bacteria hidden between the teeth and beneath the gum line are major causes of gum disease and persistent bad breath, making professional cleaning by dental hygienists essential. Dr. Anigbogu also called for a broader change in Nigerians' attitudes toward healthcare. Recounting an experience with one of her Nigerian patients, she said the patient compared the cost of comprehensive dental treatment to the price of a Toyota Camry, suggesting that the treatment was too expensive. "I had a Nigerian patient who needed all kinds of dental services. But then, when we gave him the bill, he looked at me and said, 'This is a Toyota Camry cost.' It sounded funny that he put a car over his health. There is nothing like a good quality of life," the dental specialist stated. She described the incident as a reflection of misplaced priorities, arguing that many people are willing to spend heavily on material possessions while neglecting their health. According to her, maintaining healthy natural teeth throughout one's lifetime contributes significantly to overall quality of life, adding that tooth loss can accelerate the signs of aging and reduce an individual's well-being. She therefore encouraged Nigerians to invest more in preventive oral healthcare by using soft-bristled toothbrushes, proper brushing techniques, regular professional cleanings, and routine dental examinations, rather than waiting until dental problems become emergencies.