Oral Heath Care

Experts who studied the Egyptian mummies have uncovered the cause of death of some Egyptian Pharaohs – poor oral hygiene. We cannot really blame them, modern man uses toothpaste with fluoride when brushing teeth. Sugarcane munched was an ancient sweet delight. Today, we have all sorts of sweet delights of different flavors, forms, and brands. If we do not watch out, tooth decay sets in, and can lead to the inflammation of gums. This infection worsens, and may reach the brain. Fortunately, we have antibiotics, pain-relievers, etc… otherwise, we will end up like the Pharaohs of old — death due to uncontrollable desire for sweets, at least a royal death.

When our parents would tell us to avoid or limit our consumption of products with sugar content, beverages included, this requires the practice of the virtue called temperance. Brushing our teeth regularly is a must. We have to be constant, and once in a while a visit to our family dentist will go a long way in caring for our teeth and gums.

Our effort to sustain our dental care is similar to our spiritual life. Chewing can take its toll on our teeth as we age, this is also true in our daily grind of life. Brushing of teeth, dental procedures like extraction and bracing are like prayers, frequent reception to the Sacrament of Penance and the Holy Eucharist, consistent study of our Faith, guided by the Magisterium, and a chat with a spiritual director. All these can help a lot in our quest for sanctity. The Blessed Mother, our guardian angels, and saints, are always ready to assist us in the prevention of spiritual decay.

Our Faith, may be ancient like the Pharaohs of old, but the scourge is the same — sin. Our sin can cause death. Let us be vigilant and take the Blessed Mother’s hand, and never let go. (Johnny Sulit)