SRINAGAR, APRIL 16: The Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College and Hospital Srinagar, successfully conducted an Oral Health Camp today to coincide with Fire and Emergency Week being observed by Jammu and Kashmir Fire and Emergency Services.
In conjunction with Fire and Emergency Week, this oral health education, screening, and treatment camp was held at the headquarters of the Fire and Emergency Department in Batamaloo, Srinagar. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of oral health and its connection to overall well-being, especially during emergencies. This initiative aimed to promote well-being and improve the quality of life of force personnel.
Over 100 fire and emergency personnel and their families participated in the event, receiving free dental screenings and oral health education on various diseases and maintaining oral hygiene. The screenings revealed that 76% of participants had untreated dental cavities, and more than 80% had gum problems. Many attendees were unaware of the link between oral health and its impact on general health and well-being.
The camp also focused on preventive care and maintaining oral health during emergencies. A brief discussion on the topic was conducted with officials. The team of doctors emphasised the connection between health preparedness and emergency response, highlighting the importance of maintaining health standards in the face of potential disasters. A team of doctors from Government Dental College Srinagar set up a portable clinic with mobile dental chairs and other equipment, under the leadership of Dr Aasim Farooq Shah, who currently heads the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College Srinagar. “We are thrilled with the turnout and the opportunity to educate our community about oral health,” said Dr Shah. “Oral health remains neglected among police and emergency personnel due to time constraints and the demanding schedules of their work. Fire and emergency staff are always on emergency duty, so the lack of time is the biggest challenge for them to undergo regular dental check-ups. They usually visit dentists only in severe emergencies, driven by pain. This initiative not only promotes better health practices but also increases preparedness during emergencies.”
The camp was made possible through partnerships with the Health Section of the Fire and Emergency Department at Batamaloo. Dr Abrar Shirazi, In-charge Medical Officer at the Medical Centre, Fire and Emergency Department, made every possible arrangement, and volunteers were dedicated to the programme. The Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College Srinagar, plans to continue offering similar events in the future to ensure oral health remains a priority for all.