KARACHI: The Department of Community Dentistry, Hamdard Dental College teams, in collaboration with Colgate, recently conducted a week-long oral screening initiative as part of a Community Outreach Programme, examining a total of 5,046 students aged 5-14 years by visiting various schools in Karachi.
The teams comprised faculty members led by the head of the department, along with house officers.
The Hamdard University Dental Hospital (HUDH) BDS students actively participated in this community service effort, extending dental checkups to students of different schools.
This joint project not only underscores the students' dedication to their field but also emphasises the critical role of oral health in the community. Beyond showcasing their dental expertise, the students positively impacted the well-being of school children, demonstrating a commitment to their professional responsibilities.
This proactive approach goes beyond traditional clinical environments, highlighting the significant contribution dental students can make to public health. Such community initiatives not only enhance the practical skills of dental professionals in their training, but also instill a sense of responsibility and empathy for the broader community.
During the programme, 40 team members from HUDH visited Little Folks School on the first day, examining a total of 1,100 schoolchildren in Block F, North Nazimabad. On the second day, the teams conducted oral checkups for 1,150 students at Ahmed Bawany Academy. The third day saw the HUDH teams visiting The Smart Schools branches in FB area and North Nazimabad, examining a total of 980 school children. On the fourth day, the teams visited Karachi Public School, Sir Syed Children’s Academy, and Pingus School, situated in FB Area and North Nazimabad, examining 966 students. On the fifth and final day, the teams visited New Century School System & Karachi Public School, examining a total of 850 students.
In total, 5,046 children were examined during this oral health promotion activity, focusing on the age group of 5-14 years.
BDS second professional students received training on the Community Outreach Programme, actively participating and practicing the principles of oral health promotion during this initiative.
