Srinagar: In a remarkable display of community spirit and resilience, the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College and Hospital Srinagar, successfully conducted an Oral Health Camp today on 16 April 2025 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 conducted at the headquarters of the Fire and Emergency Department at 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 increase the quality of life of force personnel.
Over 100 fire and emergency personnel and their families participated in this event, receiving free dental screenings and oral health education regarding various diseases and maintaining oral hygiene. The screenings revealed that, “76% of participants who attended had untreated dental cavities, and more than 80% had gum problems” or “many attendees were unaware of the link between oral health and the effects it can have on general health and well-being.”
The camp also focused on preventive care and maintaining oral health during emergencies. A brief discussion on the same was conducted with officials. The team of doctors emphasized 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 had set up a portable clinic with portable dental chairs and other machinery under the leadership of Dr Aasim Farooq Shah, who is presently heading the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College Srinagar. He said, “We are thrilled with the turnout and the opportunity to educate our community about oral health.” He further said that oral health remains neglected in the police and emergency personnel due to the limitations of time and tight work schedules. “Fire and emergency personnel are always on emergency duty; therefore, lack of time is the biggest challenge for them to practice regular dental checkups. It is only in case of severe emergency that they turn up to the dentists because of the agony of pain.” He said this initiative not only promotes better health practices but also emphasizes the importance of oral health and increases their 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, Incharge Medical Officer at the Medical Centre, Fire and Emergency Department, had made every possible preparation, and volunteers were dedicated for the program. The Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College Srinagar, plans to continue offering similar events in the future to ensure that oral health remains a priority for all. (JKNS)
