Intervención de la Secretaría de Salud en la salud bucal

Resumen

Oral health is an integral part of general health; the participation of physician dentist and patients in a team it is necessary. Recent investigations demonstrate that a strong relationship exists between diseases of the oral cavity such as dental decay and periodontal disease, and the control of chronic degenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, premature and spontaneous birth, low birth weight, respiratory diseases, and some systemic diseases such as diabetes. The Secretaria de Salud (Ministry of Health) through the Centro Nacional de Vigilancia Epidemiologica (National Center for Epidemiological Surveillance) and the Subdireccion de Salud Bucal (Department of Oral Health) have implemented the Oral Health Action Program 2001-2006. This program includes a number of component directed to improve the population's oral health and, therefore, general health. In this program prevention in large and small groups is contemplated, as well as normal curative attention. Also, the risks of fluoride supplements to children and the importance of not prescribing them are stressed.