Providing Oral Health to 18,000 students

Most oral diseases are treatable, particularly if detected and diagnosed at an early stage of disease development. Recognizing signs of oral diseases through early detection and taking prompt action lead to early diagnosis, which may increase the chances of successful management and treatment of the diseases. However, barriers exist that result in limited or no access to oral health services, often leading to delayed treatment. Delays in accessing health care are common, particularly in lower resource settings and vulnerable populations. Such delays may decrease survival and increase morbidity and/or mortality. Early detection aims at increasing the proportion of individuals who are diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible time.  

The aetiology of ECC is complex due to the multilevel web of factors that direct risk mechanisms. Intervention approaches include changing personal behaviours, working with families and caregivers, and instigating public health solutions such as creating supportive environments that promote equity and reduce inequalities. Population-directed ECC interventions should target pregnant women, new mothers and primary care teams with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and common risk factors, particularly the addition of free sugars to drinks and foods.