GDCH, Mumbai: Nurturing Healthy Smiles Early – Oral Health Education, Screening and Self-Care Pledge Initiative

GDCH, Mumbai: Nurturing Healthy Smiles Early – Oral Health Education, Screening and Self-Care Pledge Initiative

Rationale

Early childhood is a crucial stage for establishing lifelong oral health practices. Strengthening awareness among children, along with active involvement of teachers and caregivers, plays a vital role in preventing oral diseases and promoting healthy behaviors. As part of the World Oral Health Month 2026 initiatives aligned with the global message, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life”, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai organized an Oral Health Education and Screening Camp on 27/03/2026 for various Anganwadi’s at Mankhurd. The program integrated education, screening, and a self-care pledge to reinforce preventive oral health practices among Anganwadi children and their support system.

Objectives

• To promote oral health awareness among Anganwadi children 
• To educate teachers and caregivers on preventive oral healthcare 
• To conduct oral health screening for early detection of dental problems 
• To encourage self-oral health care through pledge-based commitment 

Target Population

The outreach program focused on:

• Anganwadi children 
• Teachers and Anganwadi workers 
• Parents and caregivers 

Total No Beneficiaries: 120

Activities Conducted

1. Oral Health Screening

• Comprehensive oral examinations were carried out for children 
• Assessment included dental caries, oral hygiene status, and early dental issues 
• Children requiring further care were guided for appropriate follow-up 

2. Oral Health Education and Awareness

• Interactive sessions conducted using child-friendly methods 
• Demonstrations of correct tooth brushing techniques 
• Education on the importance of oral hygiene and healthy dietary habits 
• Guidance provided to teachers and caregivers on supervising children’s oral care 

3. Self Oral Health Care Pledge

• Participants actively took a pledge to maintain good oral hygiene practices 
• Children, teachers, and caregivers committed to: 
  • Brushing teeth twice daily 
  • Reducing sugar intake 
  • Practicing healthy oral habits 
  • Seeking timely dental care 

Conclusion

The Oral Health Education and Screening Camp at Ghatkopar successfully emphasized the importance of early intervention, awareness, and preventive care.

By combining screening, education, and a self-care pledge, the initiative created a strong foundation for long-term oral health practices among children and their support systems.

The program reinforces, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life—Built on Early Habits, Guided by Caregivers, Sustained by Commitment.”