‘Esekon’ wonder tree keeps dentists at bay in Turkana

Brushing their teeth at all times gives the Turkana people the cleanest bill of dental health in the country. [Photo: Silah Koskei/Standard]

Turkana, Kenya: Turkana County records minimal cases of tooth decay and this good health is attributed to constant oral hygiene through the local brush known as esekon.

Most locals say the esekon tree found in most parts of the county is drought resistant and is highly regarded for promoting mouth hygiene.

In their daily activities, most residents are often armed with esekon toothbrushes.

Dickson Ekalale has used the esekon since the first time he was able to brush his teeth as a little boy. He says the brush has protected his teeth and kept his mouth fresh at all times.

“My parents have never bought us toothbrushes or toothpastes; esekon is ideal in ensuring that my teeth are clean. I have never experienced a toothache despite eating sweets,” he adds.

According to research by dental officers in Turkana, cases of dental decay rank low at five per cent compared to major regions in the North Rift.

Paul Ekitala, a dental officer at Lodwar District Hospital, attributes minimal cases of teeth problems in the region to continual brushing by the locals.

He says most people in the region are keen about oral hygiene through brushing.

“Most residents from Turkana have continued something they learned from their forefathers by using the locally available toothbrush to keep their mouths clean,” he said.

Ekitala says the pastoral set up that makes them travel long distances has seen most people opt for the local toothbrush, which enables them to brush as they go.

The brush is highly regarded due to its soft bristles and lack of acidity when it comes in contact with the walls of the mouth.

“Unlike most urban families who brush their teeth two or three times a day, the residents of Turkana and other parts of the country brush whenever they deem it necessary due to availability of the local brush,” says Ekitala.

He says the health facility receives at most three patients a day complaining of toothaches.

Kenyans generally enjoy sugary treats without making an effort to counterbalance the effects on their teeth by brushing often and thoroughly.

“Tooth decay is caused by food particles that remain in the teeth after meals, leading to the spread of bacteria. Because of this, there is a need to take care of the teeth,” advises the dentist.

Thomas Loilo, an esekon toothbrush vendor in Lodwar town, says his business has a ready market from both locals and visitors.

He sells a one and a half-metre brush for Sh20.

He says the business provides food for his family and is quick to advice people on the need to keep their teeth gleaming through constant brushing.

Loilo says the brush has created a positive impact on the county’s healthcare, adding that most people pick up the habit after watching others brushing their teeth all the time.