Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 09 February 2025
In an effort to improve oral health across the country, the Government of India has launched the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) to provide integrated and comprehensive oral health care within existing health facilities. The programme aims to address key determinants of oral health, reduce the burden of oral diseases, and promote preventive services by integrating them with the general healthcare system.
In line with this initiative, a one-day training program for Anganwadi Workers on the Revised Oral Health Manual was organized at the Ograbraj Community Hall on February 6, 2024. The event, held in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services, saw enthusiastic participation from 109 Anganwadi Workers.
The training was designed to equip Anganwadi Workers with the knowledge and skills needed to promote oral health and hygiene among children and communities. The revised oral health manual, which served as the foundation for the training, provides comprehensive guidelines on oral care and the prevention of oral diseases.
Dr. Sanjiv Jaichand, Dental Surgeon and Joint Secretary of NOHP, conducted detailed sessions on various aspects of oral health, including the importance of oral hygiene, diet, care of deciduous (milk) teeth, and the significance of regular dental check-ups. He also emphasized incorporating oral health awareness, particularly about the importance of milk teeth, during the Poshan Maah Abhiyan.
Dr. Farheen Kamil, Dental Surgeon, highlighted the crucial role of Anganwadi Workers in promoting oral health in their communities and preventing oral diseases. She encouraged them to serve as advocates for oral hygiene practices within their respective areas.
The training program marked a significant step towards empowering Anganwadi Workers to contribute actively to improving oral health outcomes in their communities, ensuring that oral hygiene awareness becomes an integral part of child and community health initiatives.