GDCH, Mumbai: Empowering Communities through Prevention – Oral Health Screening, Education & Self-Care Initiative

GDCH, Mumbai: Empowering Communities through Prevention – Oral Health Screening, Education & Self-Care Initiative

Rationale

Oral diseases remain highly prevalent in community settings, particularly in areas with limited awareness and access to preventive care. Promoting self-care practices and strengthening awareness at the grassroots level are essential to reduce the burden of oral health problems.

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College and Hospital, Mumbai, has organized an Oral Health Screening, Education, and Prevention Camp on 13 April 2026 at Panchratna Society, Bhandup West. The initiative aimed to empower individuals with knowledge and encourage adoption of preventive oral health behaviours.

Objectives

• To improve access to oral health screening services 
• To promote oral health awareness and preventive practices 
• To encourage self-oral healthcare through behavioural commitment 
• To facilitate early detection of dental and oral conditions 
• To strengthen community participation in oral health promotion 

Target Population

• Residents of Panchratna Society and surrounding areas 
• Children and adolescents 
• General adult population 

Core Activities Conducted

1. Oral Health Screening

• Comprehensive oral examinations conducted 
• Assessment of dental caries, periodontal conditions, and oral hygiene status 
• Identification and referral of individuals requiring further treatment 

2. Oral Health Education and Awareness

• Interactive sessions conducted focusing on: 
  • Importance of maintaining oral hygiene 
  • Preventive care practices 
  • Role of diet in oral health 
• Emphasis on simple, practical daily oral hygiene measures 

3. Oral Health Self-Care Pledge Activity

• Participants actively engaged in a self-care pledge activity 
• Commitment included: 
  • Brushing teeth twice daily 
  • Maintaining proper oral hygiene 
  • Adopting healthy lifestyle habits 
  • Seeking timely dental care 

This activity reinforced personal responsibility and long-term behaviour change.

Conclusion

The Oral Health Screening, Education, and Prevention Camp at Bhandup West successfully demonstrated the importance of community-based preventive interventions and self-care empowerment.