KARACHI: The department of Community Dentistry at DOW dental college (DDC) prides itself on its dedication to educating and engaging our youth on the importance of oral hygiene practices. One of the ways we do so is by arranging quarterly community outreach programs to primary and secondary schools in our vicinity.
The Faculty of Community Dentistry, Assistant Professor Muhammad Taqi, Dr Mona Shah, Dr Babar Zia, and Dr. Amber Saeed directly supervised Fifty-four third-year dental students from DDC to Government Boys Secondary school Kotwal building.
In this visit, we successfully screened and spread oral hygiene awareness among children aged 10 – 14 years. A total of 100 school children received intra-oral examination, where their subsequent oral health profile was documented using a WHO form.
Dental caries, staining, and calculus were documented, and tailored oral health advice was explained and documented on prescription pads for children to share with their parents. Children were educated on the importance and correct technique of oral hygiene practices such as regular dental checkups, tooth brushing, and flossing. Each child was given a dental kit containing a toothbrush and toothpaste to encourage implementing oral hygiene skills.
Focus on Health promotion and risk factor reduction can help reduce dental diseases and the cost of treatment. Conducting regular school visits is a simple, free, and effective step in this direction.
