LAHORE: The Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry at the University College of Medicine and Dentistry (UCMD), The University of Lahore (UOL), organized oral health awareness and Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) camps at Saving our Souls (SOS) Children’s Homes in Johar Town and Bedian, Lahore, combining dental screening and treatment with efforts to help children develop healthier oral hygiene habits.
The camps focused on identifying oral health problems, providing appropriate treatment through the ART approach and educating children about practical steps they can take to maintain good oral health. The initiative also aimed to encourage healthier daily habits and lifestyle choices that could support their long-term well-being.
Through oral examinations, screening and health education, the dental team sought to improve the children's understanding of oral hygiene and the importance of looking after their teeth and gums. The programme emphasized the value of preventive care and building awareness at an early age, alongside addressing oral health concerns identified during the camps.
Dental students and faculty lead community outreach
The participating team primarily comprised house surgeons and dental students from UCMD, The University of Lahore. They were accompanied by Dr. Arooj ul Hassan, Head of the Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry, along with other departmental faculty members.
The faculty members included Dr. Zunaira Iqbal, Dr. Seema Shafiq, Dr. Zaeem, Dr. Salah Ud Din and Dr. Nimra, who joined the initiative as part of the department's community service efforts.
The camps brought dental trainees and faculty together in a community-based setting, providing an opportunity to extend oral health services beyond the teaching institution while reinforcing the importance of preventive dentistry and public awareness.
Colgate-Palmolive supports oral health awareness
Goody bags were distributed among the children participating in the camps in collaboration with Colgate-Palmolive. The distribution complemented the oral health awareness activities and supported the initiative's broader objective of encouraging children to pay greater attention to their daily oral hygiene.
By combining screening, treatment, education and participant support, the initiative sought to make oral health awareness more accessible to children at both SOS Children's Homes locations.
UCMD leadership appreciates community service efforts
Prof. Moghees A. Baig, Dean of UCMD, and Dr. Muhammad Aslam, Medical Superintendent (MS) of the University of Lahore Dental Hospital, appreciated the organizing team for its efforts to provide community services in areas identified as needing them most.
They commended the team's contribution to community outreach, describing such efforts as an example of the values the institution seeks to instil in its students.
The initiative reflected the role of dental education institutions in connecting clinical training with community service, while encouraging future dental professionals to recognize the importance of oral health awareness, preventive care and service to communities.
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