Dental Check-up and Oral Health Awareness Camp
Oral health plays a critical role in an individual's overall well-being, yet it remains one of the most neglected areas of general health, particularly in underserved communities. Recognising the need for accessible oral healthcare and awareness, the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Teerthanker Mahaveer Dental College & Research Centre, organised a Dental Check-up and Oral Health Awareness Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad, on 24th August 2024. The camp was conducted in collaboration with the socially active NGO Parivartan “The Change”, which works extensively towards community upliftment and health promotion.
This initiative aligns with TMU’s continuing efforts to promote community welfare and oral health literacy, particularly among vulnerable populations. The camp aimed to provide dental screening, oral hygiene education, demonstrations of proper brushing techniques, and individualized diet counselling to enhance long-term oral hygiene practices.
Objectives and Planning of the Camp
Objectives of the Camp
The camp was designed with the following objectives:
- To educate the participants and create oral health awareness, especially regarding the prevention of dental diseases and the importance of routine oral hygiene practices.
- To demonstrate proper brushing techniques that are simple, effective, and suitable for all age groups.
- To conduct thorough oral checkups, followed by personalised oral hygiene instructions and dietary counselling to prevent dental caries, gingival diseases, and other oral health issues.
Planning and Organisation
The camp was meticulously planned by the Department of Public Health Dentistry. The faculty, postgraduate student, and interns were briefed regarding camp protocols, patient management, and the educational content to be delivered. Necessary dental instruments, screening materials, educational charts, and demonstration models were prepared and transported to the venue well in advance.
The NGO Parivartan “The Change” assisted in community mobilisation, ensuring that residents of Vikas Nagar were informed about the camp. Their involvement helped create a welcoming and organised environment, contributing to the high turnout and engagement.
Camp Activities and Flow
The camp commenced in the morning with a brief introduction about the importance of oral health and the benefits of early diagnosis of oral problems. A structured setup was established at the venue, consisting of:
- A registration desk for participant details
- A screening station equipped for oral examination
- A health education corner
- A demonstration section for brushing techniques
Oral Health Screening
A total of 61 participants underwent dental screening. Each patient was examined for:
- Dental caries
- Gingival and periodontal problems
- Malocclusion
- Oral lesions
- Sensitivity issues
- Oral hygiene status
Oral Health Education
Simultaneously, while screening was in progress, a detailed oral health awareness talk was delivered. Participants were educated about:
- The importance of brushing twice daily
- The role of fluoride in preventing cavities
- Risks associated with tobacco consumption
- The significance of a balanced and tooth-friendly diet
- The importance of regular dental check-ups
Demonstration of Proper Brushing Technique
Using dental models and charts, the interns demonstrated the Modified Bass Technique, along with other brushing methods suitable for children and adults. Instructions included:
- Correct angulation of the brush
- Circular motions for effective cleaning
- Gentle gumline brushing
- Proper cleaning of the tongue
- Replacement of toothbrushes every 3 months
Diet and Oral Hygiene Counselling
Participants received personalised advice on:
- Reducing sugary snacks and beverages
- Incorporating fibre-rich fruits and vegetables
- Maintaining hydration for oral health
- Avoiding sticky foods that adhere to teeth
- Using mouthwashes and floss where appropriate
Community Response, Referral, and Conclusion
Community Response
The community displayed enthusiastic participation, with individuals of all age groups—from children to elderly residents—attending the camp. Many participants expressed that this was their first dental check-up or oral health education experience. The involvement of the NGO helped create a welcoming and organised environment, contributing to the high turnout and engagement.
Referral and Follow-Up
Participants with dental issues requiring further treatment were referred to the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Teerthanker Mahaveer Dental College & Research Centre. They were informed about the available treatment options, timings, and procedures to be followed. Special attention was given to cases needing urgent care, such as severe caries, periodontal disease, and oral lesions.
Conclusion
The Dental Checkup and Oral Health Awareness Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad, successfully fulfilled its objectives of promoting oral health literacy and offering accessible dental screening to the community. With 61 participants examined, the camp served as a meaningful platform for educating individuals about preventive oral healthcare. The collaborative efforts of TMU’s Department of Public Health Dentistry and Parivartan “The Change” ensured smooth execution and maximum community reach.
By providing awareness, screening, counselling, and referral services, the camp significantly contributed to improving oral health practices and reducing the burden of dental diseases among the local population. Such initiatives reaffirm TMU’s commitment to community service, public health promotion, and sustainable health development.
Dental Health Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad (NGO Camp, Parivartan “The Change”)
Dental Health Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad. (NGO Camp, Parivartan “The Change”) - Image 1
Dental Health Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad. (NGO Camp, Parivartan “The Change”) - Image 2
Dental Health Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad. (NGO Camp, Parivartan “The Change”) - Image 3
Dental Health Camp at Vikas Nagar, Moradabad. (NGO Camp, Parivartan “The Change”) - Image 4