Faculty of Dentistry, Mogadishu University in Somalia Celebration of Oral health Day

Faculty of Dentistry, Mogadishu University: "School-Based Oral Health Program"

Activity Title

“Healthy Smiles for a Brighter Future” – School Oral Health Day Initiative

The faculty of dentistry, Mogadishu University, will organize a one-week school oral health program, and it will be implemented by Mogadishu dental students under faculty supervision. For celebrating World Oral Health Day 2026, this initiative reflects our commitment to advancing preventive oral health and empowering young students to take responsibility for their smiles. Also, it will provide students with practical experience in community dentistry while serving the local community. 

Objectives

General Objective

To promote oral health awareness, prevent dental diseases, and encourage healthy oral hygiene behaviors among school-aged children in commemoration of World Oral Health Day.

Specific Objectives
• Conduct dental screening using the DMFT/dmft index.
• Deliver age-appropriate oral health education sessions.
• Demonstrate proper toothbrushing techniques.
• Promote preventive behaviors including fluoride use and reduced sugar intake.
• Engage students through interactive and creative learning activities.

 Program Structure

The outreach program will be implemented through three parallel activity stations, with students rotating in structured groups to ensure active participation and effective time management:

 1-Dental Screening
 2-Oral Health Education
 3- Session (Drawing & Coloring)

Activity 1: Dental Screening

Students will undergo a non-invasive oral examination to assess dental caries status using the DMFT/dmft index.

Key Components
• Visual examination under portable light
• Recording of Decayed (D), Missing (M), and Filled (F) teeth
• Identification of urgent referral cases
• Immediate preventive counseling

Outputs
• DMFT baseline data
• List of students requiring dental referral
• Summary report shared with school administration

 Activity 2: Oral Health Education

Interactive sessions were conducted in small groups using demonstration models.

Topics 
• Importance of oral health
• Causes and prevention of tooth decay
• Proper tooth-brushing technique (simplified Modified Bass method)
• Role of fluoride toothpaste
• Healthy dietary habits
• Importance of regular dental check-ups

Key Messages
• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Visit the dentist every 6 months

Activity 3: Creative Engagement Session

To reinforce learning, students will participate in creative activities designed to make oral health education enjoyable and memorable.

Activities Included
• Coloring sheets illustrating correct brushing practices
• Drawing competition: “My Healthy Smile”

Gifts • Oral hygiene kits

 Expected Impact

- Increased oral health awareness among schoolchildren
- Early identification of dental problems
- Improved knowledge of proper brushing techniques
- Strengthened collaboration between university and community
- Promotion of preventive oral health practices