LCMD dental camp brings oral health awareness to children with special needs

KARACHI: The Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry at Liaquat College of Medicine & Dentistry (LCMD) recently organized a special oral health awareness and assessment camp at the Government Special Education & Rehabilitation Complex, Gulistan-e-Johar, Karachi. The initiative was aimed at providing inclusive dental care to children with intellectual, physical, visual, and hearing challenges.

The camp was led by Dr. Anjum Fahad, Head of Department (HOD), Community and Preventive Dentistry, LCMD, along with Dr. Hassan Sadiq, Dr. Seema, Dr. Sara, and Dr. Mahnoor Abid. They were joined by enthusiastic second-year BDS students and dental house officers, who actively participated in the assessments and awareness activities.

Oral health assessments for children with special needs

During the camp, about 180 students from different classes were examined. The dental team carried out comprehensive oral health assessments, including evaluation of dental caries, plaque scores, bleeding scores, and oral hygiene practices.

The initiative also focused on educating children, their parents, and teachers through interactive sessions. These sessions highlighted the importance of daily oral hygiene, preventive dental care, and the role of early intervention in ensuring long-term oral health.

Empowering families and building trust

The children, many of whom live with intellectual disabilities, physical challenges, and sensory impairments, were given special attention with compassion and care. The camp not only addressed oral health concerns but also helped build confidence and trust among families and caregivers, ensuring they felt supported and included.

LCMD’s commitment to inclusive oral health

This outreach reflects LCMD’s vision of preparing future dentists with both clinical skills and social responsibility. By engaging students in community-based care, LCMD continues to promote inclusive oral healthcare for all sections of society, especially vulnerable groups that often remain underserved.

Dr. Anjum Fahad emphasized that such initiatives are critical for developing preventive approaches in dentistry and fostering a culture of compassion among future professionals.

The camp reaffirmed LCMD’s dedication to bridging gaps in oral healthcare, ensuring that children with special needs in Karachi receive not just treatment, but also dignity, respect, and awareness to support their overall well-being.