GDCH, MUMBAI: BUILDING RESILIENCE IN EVERY SMILE – MANKHURD COMMUNITY- ORAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND SCREENING CAMP

GDCH, MUMBAI: BUILDING RESILIENCE IN EVERY SMILE – MANKHURD COMMUNITY- ORAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND SCREENING CAMP

Rationale

Oral health disparities remain a significant concern in underserved urban populations, where limited access to care, high-risk habits, and low awareness contribute to a substantial burden of preventable oral diseases. Communities residing in informal settlements are particularly vulnerable due to socioeconomic constraints and higher exposure to risk factors such as tobacco and betel nut consumption. In alignment with the global theme “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life”, the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, conducted an intensive outreach programme at Ekta Nagar Slums, Mankhurd West. 

Target Population

The camp catered to a high-priority and vulnerable demographic, including:

• Children residing in the slum community 
• General adult population 
• High-risk individuals, particularly tobacco and betel nut users 

Special emphasis was placed on individuals at increased risk of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) and other chronic oral conditions.

Number of Beneficiaries

A total of 104 residents were screened and provided with oral health education and counselling services.

Objectives

• To screen for oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) and other oral diseases among high-risk individuals 
• To instil proper oral hygiene practices among children 
• To provide empathetic, evidence-based counselling for reduction and cessation of tobacco use 
• To promote awareness that simple, cost-effective daily habits can prevent complex oral diseases 

Activities Conducted

The outreach followed a dual-track approach to address diverse community needs:

1. High-Risk Screening and Counselling

• Oral Cancer Screening: Detailed oral mucosal examinations were conducted for adult participants, with special attention to tobacco users 
• Identification of OPMDs: Early signs of potentially malignant conditions were assessed and documented 
• Tobacco Cessation Counselling: One-on-one counselling sessions were conducted, highlighting the risks of tobacco use and providing practical strategies for cessation 

2. Pediatric Oral Health Education

• Interactive Brushing Demonstrations: Children were trained in correct tooth brushing techniques using educational models 
• Nutritional Counselling: Guidance was provided on dietary habits, including reducing sugar intake and maintaining oral hygiene after meals 

3. Comprehensive Clinical Screening

All participants underwent oral examinations to identify:

• Dental caries and periodontal diseases 
• Early enamel lesions (white spot lesions) 
• Oral mucosal changes related to nutritional deficiencies or tobacco use 

Appropriate referrals and follow-up guidance were provided for individuals requiring further care at Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai.

Conclusion

The Mankhurd Community Outreach Program successfully translated the global message “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life” into impactful, ground-level action. By addressing both pediatric prevention and adult high-risk screening, the initiative strengthened the oral health resilience of the Ekta Nagar community. The program not only improved awareness and facilitated early detection but also empowered individuals to take proactive steps towards better health.