KARACHI: The Fatima Jinnah Dental College (FJDC) Department of Community Dentistry (CD) recently conducted a series of outreach activities at Jinnah Foundation School in Korangi Creek, reaching over 500 students from middle to low socio-economic backgrounds, primarily to enhance oral health and prevent oral diseases among schoolchildren.
The initiative was led by Dr Hussain Askary, CEO and Head of CD at FJDC, along with Dr Wajiha Anzar, Dr Hannah Emmanuel, and Dr Faiza Nazar, with active participation from second-year BDS students.
The programme included oral health awareness sessions, focusing on oral hygiene, healthy eating, and preventive practices.
BDS students demonstrated proper brushing techniques, provided individual counseling to assess oral health of the students, and offered them practical tips while emphasising the need for regular dental check-ups. To support health education, students distributed informative brochures they had designed among the schoolchildren.
This initiative not only delivered essential oral health services but also heightened awareness about maintaining good oral hygiene, motivating students to take charge of their dental health and adopt healthier habits.
The enthusiastic engagement from both students and faculty left a positive impression, earning appreciation from the school administration and participants.
By targeting students at a young age, these initiatives help instill lifelong habits that can significantly reduce the occurrence of oral diseases and improve overall health.
The collaboration between FJDC and Jinnah Foundation not only benefited the schoolchildren but also provided BDS students with valuable hands-on experience in community service and patient education.
These activities are instrumental in bridging the gap between dental professionals and underserved communities, promoting social responsibility among future dentists.
