GDCH, Mumbai: Empowering Every Individual Towards Self Oral Health Care - An Oral Health Screening and Awareness Camp

Activity Title: GDCH, Mumbai: Empowering Every Individual Towards Self Oral Health Care - An Oral Health Screening and Awareness Camp 

Rationale: 

In continuation of the World Oral Health Month initiatives and 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 Oral Health Education and Awareness Camp on 30 March 2026 at Sai Baba Mandir, Kokri Agar, Sion.  The activity was aimed at promoting self-oral healthcare practices among patients and the general community, with a focus on prevention, awareness, and individual responsibility towards maintaining optimal oral health. Through this initiative, the department reinforced its commitment to community-based oral health promotion and preventive healthcare delivery.

Objectives

• To create awareness regarding basic oral hygiene practices 
• To promote self-care and preventive oral health behaviors 
• To educate individuals about the importance of maintaining oral health for overall well-being 
• To encourage community participation through oral health pledge-taking 

Target Population

• Patients and attendees at the venue 
• General community members 
• Individuals from varied socio-economic backgrounds 

No of Beneficiaries: 150 community members 

Activities Conducted

1. Oral Health Education & Awareness Session

A structured educational session was conducted focusing on:

• Importance of daily oral hygiene practices 
• Correct brushing techniques 
• Role of diet in oral health 
• Prevention of common dental problems 
• Importance of regular dental check-ups 

2. Comprehensive Oral health Screening

Comprehensive oral examinations were conducted at the camp site by trained dental professionals 

• Screening included assessment for dental caries, periodontal diseases, and oral mucosal lesions 
• Special focus was given to identifying early signs of oral potentially malignant disorders in high-risk individuals 
• Oral hygiene status and overall treatment needs were systematically evaluated 
• Participants received individualized feedback and counselling based on findings 

Suspected and complex cases were identified and referred to Government Dental College and Hospital, Mumbai for further evaluation and management

3. Oral Health Pledge for Self-Care

Participants actively took part in an Oral Health Pledge, committing to:

• Brushing twice daily 
• Maintaining proper oral hygiene 
• Reducing harmful habits 
• Adopting a preventive approach to oral health 

This outreach initiative highlights the importance of community-based oral health promotion in accessible public spaces, ensuring that health education reaches individuals in their everyday environments. By focusing on self-care and empowerment, the program contributes to building a more health-conscious and proactive community.

Conclusion

The camp successfully reinforced that small daily habits can lead to significant improvements in oral and overall health. Through awareness, education, and commitment, the initiative truly reflected the spirit of: “Reaching Every Smile, One Step at a Time.”

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