DIMAPUR — Health department observed ‘World Oral Health Day’ on Wednesday across the state by organising various activities on the theme “A happy mouth is a happy body.”
‘World Oral Health Day’ is observed annually on March 20 to raise global awareness of the issues around oral health and the importance of oral hygiene so that governments, health associations and the public can work together to achieve healthier mouths and happier lives.
Kohima: The department of Health and Welfare on Wednesday observed ‘World Oral Health Day’ at Khedi Baptist Higher Secondary School in Kohima.
An update from the department stated that Dr. Meribeni Odyuo, director (Dental), highlighted the theme of ‘World Oral Health Day’ and its importance, while Dr. Arenla Walling, joint director and state nodal officer of NTCP, articulated on harmful effects of tobacco and its adverse effects on livelihood.
The programme was chaired by Rokokhono Miachieo, headmaster of Khedi Baptist Higher Secondary School, and Chathavituo Kesiezie, school principal, delivered the vote of thanks.
Mokokchung: National Oral Health Programme (NOHP), Mokokchung, observed ‘World Oral Heath Day’ at Government High School in Mokokchung village.
During the programme, the theme speaker Dr. K Tiasenla, dental surgeon at IMDH, highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth and its benefit for the body. She also advised the students to stay away from chewing of harmful tobacco substances like Pan Masala and smoking as it could lead to harmful diseases.
As part of the programme, NOHP organised a poster competition and essay writing competition based on the theme among the students.
Imlinaro of class 10 won the 1st prize in essay writing competition and Putisenla of class 8 won the 1st position in poster competition. The winners were awarded with certificate and cash prizes.
Zunehboto: Zunheboto also observed ‘World Oral Health Day’ at Seven Home High School in Zunheboto town.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Esther Chopy Ngullie, senior dental surgeon at District Hospital (DH) Zunheboto, while Dr. Rosy Yhome, senior dental surgeon at DH Zunheboto spoke on the theme.
Poster and quiz competitions were also conducted on the theme where students from different schools participated. Cash prizes and certificates were given to all the participants.
Kiphire: Commemorating ‘World Oral Health Day,’ Christian School and Community Health Centre (CHC) in Pungro under Kiphire district hosted an oral health awareness camp.
An update from the office of the chief medical officer (CMO), Kiphire, stated that in addition to dental examinations, fluoride treatment to prevent cavities and tooth extractions and temporary fillings were conducted during the camp.
Dental surgeon, Dr. Weri Mero, gave a presentation on dental hygiene emphasising its significance in preserving general health advantages. He also emphasised the negative impacts of using tobacco products, particularly in relation to smoking and chewing gutkha.
The participants were also shown correct brushing procedures by the medical staff. The oral health camp was held to inform the public and students about the value of maintaining good dental hygiene and oral health.
