As the world is celebrating Oral Health Month, it has been revealed that Oral diseases restricts millions of people from going to school, work or take part in other activities causing precious hours lost each year over the world.

The number of dental patients is also increasing in Fiji and severe dental problems are also leading to other lifestyle diseases including hypertension, diabetes and cancer.

The Lecturer of Oral Health Department at FSM Dr Benedette Pushpaangaeli said the survey shows that more people in the rural and northern division have been found to be suffering from dental health problems. She said they normally tell patients to go and have their blood or sugar levels checked just by looking at their teeth and gums which shows that they have diabetes or are anemic.

She said people should take advantage of this month and have oral inspection done to avoid dental problems.