Absolute Dental - Helping to Commemorate WWI - ‘Lights Out’

On this day, August 4^th 1914 at 10pm, Britain entered the First World War.

A century to the day we are all invited to go ‘lights out’ from 10-11pm, leaving on a single light or candle at the window for a shared moment of reflection.

 

This idea stems from a reference to the famous remark by Sir Edward Grey, foreign secretary on the eve of war that “the lamps were going out across Europe”.

During the First World War access to dental care was limited and very unlike the strict oral health soldiers today must obtain before they are allowed to serve. Most of us are familiar with ‘Trench Foot’, but have you heard of ‘Trench Mouth’? During both WWI & WWII ‘Trench Mouth’ was a common oral disease associated with the men serving in the trenches because they were exposed to the risk factors for the condition; a diet low in nutrients, smoking, stress, lack of rest and poor oral hygiene.

‘Trench Mouth’ is a painful gum condition known as Acute Ulcerative Necrotising Gingivitis causing bleeding, ulceration, sloughing of the gum membranes and distinct unpleasant bad breath. The pain experienced made eating, talking and swallowing difficult and, left untreated, resulted in tooth loss.

Imagine brushing your mouth with this (very large) bone & bristle toothbrush and the accompanying carbolic tooth powder.

We are very fortunate that we now have access to plentiful food and good dental care. Cases of ANUG are now rare, but would you believe, do still occur. You will avoid this painful condition by brushing effectively twice a day, not smoking, eating a balanced varied diet and avoiding stress.

We will always remember those who suffered and sacrificed their lives for us. Tonight we are going ‘lights out’ to commemorate the Centenary with Britain, are you?

If you would like to commemorate this moment in company The Royal British Legion in Kingsbridge are holding a candle-lit vigil. Please take along your own candle; all are welcome, at RBL Mill Club, Western Backway, Kingsbridge (just off lower Fore Street) at 10pm.

Christina.