Written by Edgar Allan Pangisban
Oral health and wellness are now at the forefront of health-related issues being addressed by the government, specifically by the Department of Health. In particular, dental Caries is one of the leading dental diseases experienced by Filipinos affecting most of the younger population, particularly children. As such, the DOH advocates sustainable programs and activities to address this health-related issue. Thereby, to promote oral health and share plans to address the growing problem of dental caries among Filipino Children, the Philippine Academy of Dental Public Health in partnership with the University of Baguio School of Dentistry held the Public Health Interventions against Early Childhood Caries Forum last August 16, 2024.
Three speakers shared their expertise in dental public health specifically in the fight against dental caries among children. The first lecture by Dr. Melchor Sarmiento discussed the importance of early detection and diagnosis of dental caries and to recognize the disease entity as a real threat to health and wellness. The second lecture by Dr. Artemio Licos showed the impact of research studies on the formulation of strategies to mitigate the growing problem of children having dental caries. The speaker also discussed the relevance of utilizing the data gathered through research in formulating policies and its implementation to the community. The third speaker by Dr. Edbert Solano introduced the Silver Diamine Fluoride as an invaluable adjunct in arresting early manifestations of dental caries. Fluoride has been the fundamental and most effective element to combat the progression of dental caries.
With the conclusion of the seminar, the University of Baguio, School of Dentistry allied with the Philippine Association of Dental Public Health remains committed and perseveres in the fight against dental caries and envisions a Filipino community, especially among young children, that can eradicate this predominating oral disease entity. With this newfound knowledge, both dental practitioners and students engaged in the community are now equipped to render dental education and services to the concerned population to mitigate the risks of acquiring dental caries and lessen its prevalence in the community.
This will also help the concerned officials in policy and decision-making, anchoring their resolutions to evidence-based research. The symposium helped in the realization of a disease-free community, especially a dental caries-free status among Filipino children. The program was attended by six (6) dental professionals and at the same time faculty members of the University of Baguio, School of Dentistry. Forty-one (41) students also joined in the said event as part of their learning in Dental Public Health.
