CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health and Development (CHD) recently conducted activities in Palawan to encourage younger schoolchildren take charge of their preventive oral care.

In celebration of national oral health month, students and teachers from Sta. Cruz Elementary School in Puerto Princesa City joined the activities.

This observance is dedicated to promote awareness about the importance of oral hygiene, encouraging preventive dental care, and fostering a culture of healthy smiles across the nation.

The main activity of the health department was the toothbrush drill, where students from Kinder to Grade 2 learned the proper way to brush their teeth.

This activity aims to teach teachers and parents to develop healthy habits to keep their teeth healthy until old age.

In addition, the students watched an oral health advocacy video which featured information and healthy habits to keep a ‘healthy smile’.

DOH underscores the connection between oral health and overall well-being of the students. 

According to DOH, research has shown links between oral health and conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. By promoting good oral hygiene, the department aims not only to enhance smiles but also to contribute to the confidence and holistic health of the learners.

DOH also distributed free dental kits and oral health family packages from the Puerto Princesa City Health Office and Department of Education.

This was made possible by the collaboration of the DOH with the Puerto Princesa City Health Office, DepEd School Division Office Puerto Princesa City, and Philippine Dental Association Palawan Chapter. (GATS/PIA MIMAROPA)