Rwanda has recorded a significant decline in oral health issues, with tooth decay decreasing by 29%, from 47% to 16%, and chronic oral pain dropping from 44% to 7%, according to the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC).
The announcement came during a national oral hygiene campaign launched at G.S. Bumbogo in Gasabo District, coinciding with the International Day for Oral Health. The initiative was attended by officials from the health and education sectors and various partners, aiming to raise awareness about oral diseases and promote overall oral health.
Irene Bagahirwa, an RBC official specializing in non-communicable oral diseases, said the campaign emphasizes the importance of maintaining oral hygiene, as poor dental care can lead to other health complications. She explained that targeting schools helps instill good habits in children, who can then influence their families.
“The goal is to make oral hygiene a culture, starting in schools, where students are taught to brush their teeth at least twice a day, both at school and at home after meals,” Bagahirwa said.
Fabrice Niyibizi, president of the Rwanda Dental and Oral Health Association, noted that many people seek dental care only when decay has advanced, often requiring tooth extraction rather than preventive treatment. He emphasized that tooth decay is the most common oral health problem in Rwanda, particularly affecting children from age three and up.
State Minister for Education Claudette Irere highlighted that the school-based campaign will expand nationwide, helping students develop consistent oral hygiene habits through regular brushing. She stressed that caring for oral health is crucial, as it plays a significant role in overall well-being.
Oral diseases remain one of the top five reasons for medical visits in Rwanda. A 2021 study by the National Non-Communicable Disease Program revealed that 57% of Rwandans do not seek dental care, while only 11% treated oral conditions in the past year. Among those who received care, 92.8% did so due to pain or discomfort, and only 1% as preventive care.
The survey also found that only 19% brush their teeth twice daily, 67% brush once, and 86% use toothpaste. Health experts recommend brushing at least twice daily—after breakfast and before bedtime—while also cleaning the tongue to remove bacteria and prevent bad breath.
