Oral Health Screening Camp Organized on National Oral Medicine and Radiology Day
The Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at Navodaya Dental College successfully organized an Oral Health Screening Camp on the occasion of National Oral Medicine and Radiology Day on 22nd April 2026 at the Raichur Railway Station Health Care Unit. The camp was conducted in association with the Indian Academy of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Karnataka State Branch, with the objective of promoting oral health awareness and early detection of oral diseases among railway employees and their family members.
The screening camp was coordinated under the guidance of resource persons Dr. Vajendra Joshi and Dr. Malashri N. Ghatke. The programme also witnessed active participation from interns including Dr. Riya Biju, Dr. Krishnendu Byju, Dr. Padmini C, Dr. Jaicil Francis, and Dr. Nanda Kishore. Final year students Marasa Poojitha and N. Jayadradudu also contributed enthusiastically to the successful conduct of the camp.
The event received valuable support from Dr. Salim, Consultant Physician of the Railways, who encouraged railway staff and their families to participate in the oral health screening programme. His support played a significant role in motivating the attendees and creating awareness about the importance of maintaining oral hygiene and seeking timely dental consultations.
The primary objective of the camp was to educate the public regarding the importance of oral health and the early identification of oral diseases. Special emphasis was placed on the detection of oral pre-malignant lesions and oral cancer, which continue to be major public health concerns due to the widespread use of tobacco and related products. The screening programme aimed to identify conditions such as oral leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, smoker’s palate, oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), and other suspicious oral lesions at an early stage to ensure timely intervention and treatment.
During the camp, all railway employees and their family members who attended the programme underwent detailed oral examinations. A total of 45 individuals were screened by the team. The screening process involved careful clinical examination and patient counselling regarding oral hygiene practices, harmful effects of tobacco consumption, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
Among the screened individuals, two cases of smoker’s palate and one case of reticular lichen planus were identified. The patients diagnosed with these conditions were informed in detail about their oral health status and the possible risks associated with these lesions. Appropriate medications, including antioxidants and supportive therapy, were prescribed to the patients, and they were advised for follow-up visits at the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology for further evaluation and management.
In addition to the identified pre-malignant lesions, several individuals presented with complaints of minor oral pain and discomfort. Necessary medications were prescribed and dispensed to them during the camp itself. Cases requiring advanced evaluation and specialized dental care were referred to Navodaya Dental College for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.
The oral health screening camp served as an important initiative in spreading awareness about oral diseases and reinforcing the importance of preventive healthcare practices among the public. Such community outreach programmes help bridge the gap between healthcare institutions and society by ensuring early detection of diseases and encouraging people to seek timely treatment.
The Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at Navodaya Dental College continues to remain committed to community service, patient care, academic excellence, and public health awareness through various outreach programmes and health initiatives. The successful organization of this camp reflects the institution’s dedication towards promoting oral healthcare and improving the overall well-being of the community.
