BOAC, Marinduque (PIA) — The Provincial Dental Health Office of Marinduque is targeting children, ages one to four years old, for its dental health advocacy campaign.
In an interview conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Marinduque with Dr. Ghlizelle Monte-Malilay emphasized the importance of teaching the children proper dental hygiene especially in observance of the National Oral Health Month.
“Kasabay ng pagdiriwang ng DOH ngayong buwan ng Oral Health Month, kaisa ang Provincial Government of Marinduque sa pamamagitan ng aming mga isinasagawang programa sa buong lalawigan ng Marinduque upang maiangat ang kamalayan ng mga bata pagdating sa pangangalaga ng kanilang hygiene,” Malilay said.
One of the key programs implemented by the Provincial Dental Health Office since last year is the “Batang Marinduqueño, May Ngiting Panalo,” which teaches kids on proper brushing techniques and how to care for their teeth to prevent oral health problems.
The initiative is carried out in partnership with the public dental health team, daycare workers and nutrition scholars who assist in spreading awareness about the significance of early dental care.
Dr. Arabelle Tagle-Merano, a dentist from Marinduque Provincial Hospital (MPH), also shared the ongoing dental services at the MPH clinic.
She said that from Monday to Friday, patients can avail themselves of check-ups and consultations to assess potential treatments for their dental concerns.
Specific dental services are scheduled throughout the week: tooth extractions are conducted every Tuesday and Thursday, prophylaxis treatments or teeth cleaning are held on Wednesdays, and Fridays are dedicated to government employees for consultations, cleaning, and extractions.
Merano said that their office, in collaboration with MPH, also distributes educational flyers and organizes dental care lessons. These activities also include pre-tests and post-tests to gauge the knowledge gained by participants.
Aside from the DOH’s involvement, the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) has also joined the celebration, advocating the theme, “Brushing is the key, sa ngiping healthy,” reinforcing the importance of daily oral hygiene practices.
The ongoing efforts in Marinduque, coupled with national initiatives, are a testament to the importance of family-centered oral health care. It also hopes that dental health becomes a top priority for all its residents by raising awareness and providing accessible service. (DN/AS/PIA MIMAROPA-Marinduque)
