GDCH, Mumbai: Sustaining the Smile: Community Oral Health Mission

GDCH, MUMBAI: SUSTAINING THE SMILE - COMMUNITY ORAL HEALTH MISSION

Date: 23/03/2026
Venue: Madina Masjid, Janta Nagar, 30 Road, Mandala, Mankhurd, Mumbai
Total no of Beneficiaries: 67

Rationale: 

Oral health continues to be a major public health concern among underserved urban communities, where limited access to care, lack of awareness, and high prevalence of risk factors contribute to a significant burden of preventable diseases. As part of the World Oral Health Day 2026 campaign, and in alignment with the global initiative, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life”, the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, conducted a comprehensive Oral Health Screening and Education Camp at Madina Masjid, Janta Nagar, 30 Road, Mandala, Mankhurd. This outreach initiative aimed to bring preventive oral healthcare services directly to the community, ensuring accessibility and early intervention.

Objectives

• To promote oral health awareness among underserved populations 
• To provide basic oral health screening services 
• To facilitate early detection of oral diseases 
• To raise awareness regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use 
• To encourage preventive oral hygiene practices and timely dental care 

Target Population

The camp catered to a diverse and underserved urban population, including:

• Children and adolescents 
• General adult population 
• High-risk individuals, particularly those with tobacco habits 

Special emphasis was placed on individuals at risk of oral potentially malignant disorders.

Activities Conducted

1. Oral Health Screening

Comprehensive oral examinations were conducted for all participants to identify:

• Dental caries  
• Periodontal diseases 
• Oral mucosal lesions 
• Early signs of oral precancerous conditions 

Participants identified with oral health issues were provided with appropriate counselling and referrals to Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, for further evaluation and management.

2. Tobacco Risk Assessment and Counselling

• Targeted screening of tobacco users for early mucosal changes 
• Identification of potential oral precancerous lesions 
• One-on-one counselling on the harmful effects of tobacco use 
• Guidance on tobacco cessation and behaviour modification 

This component emphasized early detection and risk reduction in high-risk groups.

3. Oral Health Education and Awareness

Educational sessions were conducted focusing on:

• Importance of maintaining oral hygiene 
• Correct tooth brushing techniques 
• Role of diet in maintaining oral health 
• Prevention of common oral diseases 

Participants were encouraged to adopt simple, preventive oral hygiene practices for long-term health benefits.

4. Oral Health Pledge – Self-Care Commitment

Participants actively engaged in a Self-Oral Health Care Pledge, committing to:

• Maintain regular oral hygiene practices 
• Avoid harmful habits such as tobacco use 
• Seek timely dental care 

Conclusion

The “Sustaining the Smile” Community Oral Health Mission at Madina Masjid, Janta Nagar, Mandala, Mankhurd successfully translated the global message “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life” into meaningful community action. By integrating screening, education, and targeted counselling for high-risk individuals, the programme contributed to improved awareness, early detection, and adoption of preventive practices. It reinforces the commitment of the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, towards reaching underserved communities and promoting sustainable oral health outcomes.