With a ceremony, the Ghana Armed Forces' (GAF) Duala Medical Centre has marked this year's World Oral Health Day.

The event took place on Monday, March 20, 2023, at the Duala Medical Centre, Burma Camp Accra. 

The Medical Officer in Charge (OIC) at the Duala Medical Centre, Dr Ewura Adjoa Ahimah Nunoo, in an exclusive interview with Class News' Prince Benjamin explained that the reason behind the programme “was to raise awareness.”

“Today is World Oral Health Day. It’s commemorated on 20th March each year, and we want people to improve their oral health or oral hygiene,” she said.

The multiple award-winning medical practitioner and health advocate noted that it has come to the attention of health professionals that “people don’t like to go to the dentist often so we now bring the dentist to your doorstep and that is why we brought the dentists here today to examine your teeth.”

During the event chaired by Dental Surgeon and the Official FDI World Dental Federation Ambassador for World Oral Health Day,Dr Louisa Ansong-Satekla, attendees were gifted Colgate and Pepsodent toothbrushes and toothpastes, aside refreshments.

“Some people have not changed their toothbrush probably in a year or two,” Dr Ewura Adjoa Nunoo she said with a hint of satire. “So, at least you get a new toothbrush to take home with you.”

She also expressed happiness for the socialisation that took place at the event which was graced by two Di Asa pluz-size stars with a cheer-indusing dance performance.

In attendance were: the Deputy Director, Non-communicable Disease, Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr Wallace Odiko-Ollenu, who representing the Deputy Director of the GHS, Dr Anthony Adofo Ofosu, addressed the audience; Dental OIC of the 37 Military Hospital Colonel Mohammed Salifu; Dr Philip Nyinaku Head of Health Promotion at the Public Health department 37 Military Hospital; the Air Force Wives Organisation; and Psychologist at 37 Military Hospital Anita Paddy who explained how oral and mental health are linked.

Physician Assistant (PA) Mrs Afia Asante-Adipah “also gave a talk on how to keep your mouth clean at all times and how to protect your teeth and your gums,” Dr Ewura Adjoa noted.

Mentioning that the entire month of March is dedicated to oral health, she entreated the public to visit a dentist “at least twice a year or once every six months.”

She highlighted the 37 Military Hospital’s readiness to serve the public every weekday.

“The dentists are always available at 37 military hospital for you so go to them at any time between Monday and Friday," she informed. "Their doors are open up until 2 PM.” 

“Change your toothbrush as often as you can,” the 2022 Medical Media Personality of the Year awardee advised. “Brush your teeth twice a day and make sure you’re flossing on a regular basis.”

The ceremony was concluded with a free dental screening by dentists [pictured above] from the 37 Military Hospital for members of the armed forces and the general public.

Drinks and water were from Blowchem Industries Limited (Belaqua) and catering was done by Mango's Restaurant Bar and Grill and Chartjeff Kitchen. 

The 2023 World Oral Health Day celebration was themed: 'Be proud of your mouth'.