Oral Health Impacts of South African Cold Fronts: Public Health Education and Advocacy by Alfridah Kgabo Matse

This dataset and accompanying presentation highlight the work of <b>Alfridah Kgabo Matse</b>, a South African dental health advocate, in addressing the under-researched connection between seasonal cold fronts and oral health risks. The material focuses on the impact of climatic conditions—specifically cold, dry weather—on oral hygiene, dental disease, and public health outcomes, particularly in low-resource communities.<b>Alfridah Kgabo Matse</b> identifies key physiological effects of cold weather, including reduced saliva production, increased risk of dry mouth, heightened tooth sensitivity, and greater susceptibility to gingivitis and tooth decay. These conditions, though often overshadowed by respiratory illnesses, have measurable impacts on quality of life and community health.This work presents public health outreach model of <b>Alfridah Kgabo Matse</b>, including the use of mobile dental clinics, school-based programs, and media engagement to raise awareness and promote practical, preventative oral hygiene practices. Emphasis is placed on the accessibility of low-cost strategies such as fluoride toothpaste use, hydration, reduced sugar consumption, and consistent brushing and flossing routines during colder months.In addition to grassroots efforts, <b>Alfridah Kgabo Matse</b> advocates for the inclusion of oral health in national climate resilience policies and public health frameworks. The presentation includes her recommendations for integrating dental care into seasonal health preparedness plans and highlights the urgent need for interdisciplinary collaboration between dental professionals, climate scientists, and policy stakeholders.This contribution provides a unique perspective on the intersection of oral health, climate change, and education in the South African context. It is relevant for public health researchers, oral health practitioners, policymakers, and climate adaptation strategists interested in advancing equitable healthcare responses to environmental change.