A staggering 63% of preschool and primary school children in Sri Lanka suffer from tooth decay, while nearly half of the adult population is affected by gum diseases, according to Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa. Oral cancer has also been identified as the most common cancer among Sri Lankan men.
Speaking at the National Celebration of World Oral Health Day at Galle Face Green, Dr. Jayatissa emphasized that poor personal habits, such as excessive sugar consumption, infrequent brushing, lack of fluoride toothpaste use, smoking, betel chewing, and alcohol consumption, are major contributors to oral diseases.
Government’s Response & Initiatives
- Rs. 81.5 million has been allocated for oral healthcare improvements in the first quarter of 2025.
- Education Ministry Circular introduced to protect the oral health of 4 million schoolchildren.
- Nationwide educational campaigns in schools and preschools to promote preventive care and treatment.
- Promotion of fluoride toothpaste use as a key dental hygiene practice.
Currently, 1,700 dental professionals, including specialist surgeons, general dentists, and school dental therapists, provide oral healthcare under the Health Ministry. School dental therapists play a crucial role in treating Grade 1 to Grade 7 students.
The event, themed “Healthy Mouth–Healthy Mind”, was organized by the Health Ministry, Sri Lanka Dental Association, and International Dental Federation. Officials including Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Deputy Director General of Dental Services Dr. Chandana Gajanayake, and Sri Lanka Dental Association President Prof. Ruwan Jayasinghe were present, along with schoolchildren, university students, and dental professionals.
