SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — Over 200 students at Acao Elementary School in Bauang, La Union received essential dental care and hygiene education recently, as part of the National Oral Health Month celebration.
With the theme “Pamilya, Una Kong Dentista: #Ngiting7020, Sugar Away for No Tooth Decay,” the initiative emphasized the crucial role of families in establishing early oral health habits.
The “Ngiting 7020” campaign advocates for maintaining 20 healthy teeth by the age of 70, reinforcing the importance of consistent dental care from childhood to adulthood.
The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of La Union, in partnership with the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC) and the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) La Union Chapter, spearheaded the event.
Dr. Artemio Licos Jr., head of ITRMC’s Dental Medicine Department, stressed the urgency of early intervention.
“With a staggering 73 percent prevalence of dental caries in children here, it’s imperative to integrate oral health education and preventative treatments into their routine as early as possible,” stated Dr. Licos.
Throughout the day, students participated in dental check-ups, hands-on toothbrushing drills, and fluoride varnish applications to strengthen their teeth.
Those with severe dental issues also underwent tooth extractions performed by dental professionals.
To further support their at-home dental care, students received hygiene kits containing toothbrushes, toothpaste, and educational materials.
Dr. Winda Mazon, principal of Acao Elementary School, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative on students’ overall well-being.
“This initiative not only addresses the immediate health needs of our students but also educates them on maintaining long-term dental health, which is essential for their overall well-being and academic success,” she stated.
These efforts reflect a community-wide commitment to improving health outcomes, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can enhance educational experiences and foster healthier living environments for children.
Through such health initiatives, the stakeholders aim to reduce the prevalence of dental caries and promote a healthier future for students at Acao Elementary and beyond. (CCMT/AMB/AIHR, PIA Region 1)
