Dental Camp: A Successful Outreach for Better Oral Health
16 February, 2025 , we started our much-anticipated dental camp, following the Sunday mass. The excitement among the people was palpable, with many eager to take advantage of the opportunity to improve their oral health. We (Dr. Elita Lobo and Dr. Vishakha Dalvi) kicked off the camp at 10:30 am, and from the very start, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation.
To ensure the smooth and organized conduct of the camp, a well-equipped registration desk was set-up which was managed by Mansi Jelastin, Sancia Correa and Cassandra Moraes from the youth group. This allowed for an efficient check-in process, ensuring that each patient had a smooth entry and didn’t miss out on the services we were offering.
One of the key features of the camp was the personalized care each patient received. We as dental professionals engaged in one-on-one consultations with the patients, listening closely to their concerns and evaluating their individual needs. Based on these interactions, we provided each person with a comprehensive treatment plan, tailored to their specific dental requirements and comfort level. It was clear that this personal touch was appreciated, as many people expressed their gratitude for the in-depth advice they received.
A particular highlight of the camp was the dental scanner. The device quickly became a major attraction, drawing in a significant number of individuals who were eager to learn more about their dental health. Those who used the scanner were able to see a before-and-after simulation of how their teeth would look once aligned, which was both fascinating and eye-opening for many. This interactive tool provided valuable insights, sparking further interest and inquiries.
In addition to the consultations and scans, we also addressed specific concerns of individuals who were experiencing pain and discomfort with immediate RVG’s. By analyzing the X-rays, we were able to identify underlying issues such as cavities, infections, or misalignments that may not have been visible during the initial examination. With this enhanced information, we were able to tailor a more precise and effective treatment plan, ensuring greater comfort . This service proved invaluable in not only diagnosing but also alleviating the concerns of many patients.
By 2:00 pm, we had attended to nearly 40 patients, each receiving quality care and guidance. We worked throughout , ensuring that every individual received the attention and treatment they deserved.
Looking back, it was a rewarding and enriching experience for both our team and the patients. For us, it was an opportunity to give back to the community, while for many of the patients, it was a chance to gain a deeper understanding of their oral health and the steps they can take to improve it. We hope that this camp has not only opened their eyes to the importance of dental care but also empowered them to make informed decisions for their future well-being.
In conclusion, the dental camp was a success—marked by high engagement, valuable exchanges, and most importantly, a positive impact on the health of the people we served. All thanks to STCJ Church, Airoli for giving us an opportunity and our Parish Priest Fr. Samuel Ribeiro for organising and helping with the overall conduct of the camp. We look forward to organizing more such events and continuing our mission to promote better oral health for all.
-Dr. Elita Lobo
