GDCH, Mumbai- Healthy Mouths, Healthier Lives – Promoting Oral Health for All

GDCH, MUMBAI: REACHING THE UNREACHED WITH HEALTHY SMILES – ORAL HEALTH SCREENING AND EDUCATION CAMP

Rationale

Oral health remains a critical yet often overlooked component of general health, particularly among underserved populations residing in urban slum communities. Limited access to dental services, low awareness regarding preventive practices, and a high prevalence of risk factors such as tobacco use contribute significantly to the burden of oral diseases. The Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, undertook a community-based outreach program at Vision Rescue Community Centre, Mandala, Mankhurd, Mumbai, aimed at improving access to preventive oral healthcare services and addressing these disparities.

Objectives

• To improve access to oral healthcare services among underserved populations 
• To promote preventive oral health practices 
• To enhance awareness regarding oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits 
• To facilitate early detection of oral diseases 
• To encourage regular dental visits and timely health-seeking behavior 

Target Population

The outreach program catered to a diverse and vulnerable population, including:

• Children and adolescents 
• General adult population 
• Individuals with tobacco use habits 
• Residents of urban slum communities 

Special emphasis was placed on high-risk individuals and those with limited access to routine dental care.

Total no of Beneficiaries: 335

Activities Conducted

1. Oral Health Screening

Comprehensive oral examinations were conducted to assess:

• Dental caries  
• Periodontal diseases 
• Oral mucosal lesions and infections 
• Early signs of oral potentially malignant disorders 

Participants requiring further care were provided with appropriate referrals to Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai.

2. Oral Health Education and Awareness

Structured educational sessions were conducted focusing on:

• Importance of maintaining oral hygiene 
• Demonstration of correct tooth brushing techniques 
• Role of diet and nutrition in oral health 
• Prevention of common oral diseases 

Participants were encouraged to adopt simple and sustainable oral hygiene practices to improve long-term oral health outcomes.

3. Behaviour Change Communication

Special emphasis was placed on:

• Promotion of daily oral hygiene practices 
• Awareness regarding harmful habits such as tobacco use 
• Encouragement of periodic dental check-ups 

Interactive and community-friendly methods were used to enhance participation, engagement, and understanding among the beneficiaries.

Conclusion

The Oral Health Screening and Education Camp at Mankhurd represented a proactive step towards strengthening community oral health through awareness, prevention, and early detection. By focusing on underserved populations and high-risk groups, the initiative contributed to improved oral health outcomes and overall well-being. It aligned with the vision of the FDI World Dental Federation: “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life - Extending Care to Every Community.”