Residents of Yikhum village benefited from a free dental outreach programme held on February 10, aimed at improving access to oral healthcare in rural areas. The initiative was conducted by Dr Mhao Jungio, BDS, MDS (Specialist), proprietor of Gums & Smile Dental Clinic, Wokha, with a focus on delivering dental services at no cost to villagers who face barriers in accessing treatment.
Held on the theme “Better Teeth, Better Health,” the camp emphasized the close link between oral hygiene and overall health. The programme sought not only to provide treatment but also to raise awareness about preventive dental care, particularly among populations that often delay treatment due to lack of facilities and awareness.
Medicines used during the camp were sponsored by Woben Medical Wholesale. The proprietor stated that the support was extended keeping in mind the challenges faced by villagers in interior areas, where the availability of medicines is often limited and travel to town centres is difficult.
Priority during the outreach was given to elderly persons, individuals with disabilities, and residents with restricted mobility, many of whom are unable to travel outside the village for regular dental check-ups. The organisers noted that poor awareness and delayed intervention frequently result in severe dental problems among such groups.
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A range of services were offered at the camp, including free registration, dental consultations, tooth restorations, extractions, and oral health education. Several long-standing dental issues, such as decayed and loose teeth, were identified and treated during the programme. Patients were also informed about additional benefits, including free registration and a 30 per cent concession on further treatment at the clinic.
The outreach catered to a broad age group, with patients ranging from as young as four years to eighty-seven years old, reflecting the wide reach and inclusive nature of the programme.
Dr Jungio stated that this was the first free dental camp organised at Yikhum Village and added that similar outreach programmes are planned for other villages in and around Wokha town. He further informed that the initiative is intended to be conducted annually, with repeat visits to ensure sustained care and continuous oral health awareness.
