Learners and staff at Mirera Comprehensive School in Naivasha, Nakuru county have benefitted from a community outreach programme seeking to promote oral health awareness among learners and the general public.
The sensitisation programme is a partnership between Oral Health Association of Kenya (OHAK) and Mount Kenya University designed to raise public awareness on the importance of oral health and promoting responsible dental care practices.
The programme brought together oral health professionals, education stakeholders and members of the community to create awareness on proper oral hygiene, prevention of dental diseases, and the importance of seeking professional dental services.
The initiative underscored the need for early intervention and regular dental check-ups as key measures in maintaining good oral health.
The sensitization was attended by Kiptanui Musa, Council Member, Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC); Beatrice Achieng, President, Oral Health Association of Kenya; and Nduno Chege, Oral Health Officer, alongside representatives from Mount Kenya University and other stakeholders.
Learners were guided on proper tooth-brushing techniques, the importance of maintaining healthy dietary habits, and the need for regular dental check-ups.
They were also encouraged to take an active role in safeguarding their oral health as an essential component of their overall well-being.
Speaking during the programme, the stakeholders emphasized that oral health is an essential component of overall health and wellbeing.
They encouraged learners, parents and the wider public to adopt good oral hygiene practices, make informed choices about dental care and seek qualified oral health professionals whenever necessary.
“The partnership between Mount Kenya University and the Oral Health Association of Kenya reflects a shared commitment to community outreach, health education and preventive healthcare,” Aching said.
The OHAK President noted that through such initiatives, the institutions continue to contribute to building healthier and more informed communities
To support the oral hygiene education initiative, learners received dental kits to help them adopt and maintain good oral health practices at home and in school.
“Through this collaboration, both institutions continue to play a vital role in advancing oral health education, fostering preventive healthcare practices, and contributing to the development of healthier communities across Kenya,” she noted.
Speaking during the event, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) Director Moses Kiptanui encouraged members of the public to seek oral health services from registered and licensed practitioners and to avoid quacks.
KMPDC is mandated to regulate the training and practice of medicine, dentistry and community oral health within Kenya. The council is also mandated to regulate operations of health facilities within the country.
