Kenya joined the global community in marking World Oral Health Day with national celebrations held at Nduluku Comprehensive School in Makueni County. The event, themed “A Happy Mouth Is… A Happy Mind,” emphasized the connection between oral health, mental wellness, and overall quality of life.
During the celebrations, the need to prioritize oral health within the country’s universal health coverage (UHC) agenda was underscored. It was highlighted that oral health is more than just having a healthy smile it is essential to physical, mental, and social well-being. Poor oral health can lead to systemic diseases, reduced productivity, and an overall decline in quality of life.
Statistics from the 2015 National Oral Health Survey indicate that 98.1% of Kenyan adults suffer from gum disease, while 46.3% of five-year-olds have tooth decay. Additionally, dental fluorosis remains a growing concern, affecting over 41% of children, primarily due to increased reliance on borehole water. Despite these statistics, access to oral healthcare services remains inadequate, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Findings from the 2023 Kenya Health Facility Census reveal that only 13% of health facilities provide oral health services. The shortage of trained professionals further compounds the problem, with the dentist-to-population ratio standing at 0.27 per 10,000 well below the World Health Organization’s recommended levels. This disparity highlights the urgent need for improved investment in oral health services and infrastructure across the country.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing these challenges through the Kenya National Oral Health Policy 2022–2030 and the accompanying Strategic Plan (2022–2026). These frameworks outline measures to expand access to oral healthcare, enhance preventive strategies, and integrate oral health services into primary healthcare. Counties have been urged to appoint County Dentists to spearhead oral health initiatives, ensuring that services are well-coordinated and adequately resourced at the local level.
To further strengthen oral healthcare under the UHC framework, the government is currently reviewing the oral health benefits covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA). This review aims to ensure that essential dental services are accessible to all Kenyans, particularly those in vulnerable communities. The goal is to eliminate financial barriers that hinder access to quality oral healthcare, reinforcing the commitment to leaving no one behind.
The event brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including the health ministry, county governments, the Kenya Defence Forces, development partners, and members of the broader health community. Participants were encouraged to take personal responsibility for their oral hygiene and mental well-being, aligning with the day’s theme.
The national observance also served as a platform to foster collaboration among different sectors in addressing oral health challenges. By working together, stakeholders aim to ensure that all Kenyans regardless of their location or socioeconomic status have access to quality dental care. The discussions emphasized that oral health should no longer be a neglected aspect of overall healthcare but an integral part of the nation’s health agenda.
With continued investment and cross-sectoral efforts, Kenya is taking significant steps toward improving oral healthcare, reducing disease burdens, and ensuring a healthier population. The reaffirmation of these commitments during the celebrations signals a renewed focus on achieving equitable access to oral healthcare services nationwide.
