FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Edo State government, in commemorating the 2026 World Oral Health Day has collaborated with the Nigerian Dental Association, to give free dental screening and procedures for members of the public.
To celebrate the 2026 World Oral Health Day with the theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Healthy Life,” the Government House Medical Center officially expanded its services to include a Dental Unit with modern equipment to handle all dental procedures.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, commended the administration’s commitment to the overall well-being of citizens, highlighted ongoing efforts by the administration to strengthen the health sector and ensure access to quality healthcare services across the state.
Idahosa said the governor has laid so much emphasis on healthcare services for citizens starting from the Edo State Government House by equipping it with modern medical equipment to ensure effective and efficient healthcare service delivery.
“Today we are benefiting from the services at the center and a lot of persons including myself have benefited from the free dental services to mark the world health oral day with this programme organized by Government house medical center in collaboration with Nigerian Dental Association Edo State Chapter.
“I encourage all to take care of their oral health. This year’s celebration reminds us that oral health is not just about teeth. It is about enjoying your meals without pain, speaking clearly, smiling freely, and living confidently”.
Coordinator of the exercise and Special Adviser on Health to Governor Okpebholo, Dr Precious Ogboru said the collaboration aims to strengthen the Governor’s support for the medical profession in boosting public health and a platform to launch the dental clinic at the Government House.
He emphasised the importance of preventive oral care and sustained public health interventions. He assured the Edo people of Okpebholo’s concern for public health.
“Today’s event is kick-starting our dental clinic in Government House Medical Center. We have an in-house dentist and you can visit the medical center any day of the week to see a dentist and have a free procedure done at no cost”.
Chairman, Nigerian Dental Association, Edo State Chapter, Professor Joan Enabulele said the event is to bring oral health awareness to Edo people through the dental check to mark the 2026 world oral health day.
“We came here today to collaborate with the government house medical center to mark the 2026 World Oral Day. We came here to see the governor’s staff and also contribute our quota to the development of healthcare services in Edo State”.
A Consultant Community Dentistry, Dr Elohor Okuonghae, who delivered a health talk titled “Proper oral hygiene and preventive care”, called on the beneficiaries to brush twice daily with fluoride containing toothpaste, visit a dentist regularly for early diagnosis of dental ailments and gave other healthy oral hygiene tips.
She encouraged participants to ensure a soft toothbrush for children and toothpaste with fluoride, demonstrated brushing and advised them to see a dentist every six months .
The outreach also featured free medical services, including blood pressure check, pulse rate monitoring, blood sugar testing, and general health screening for participants.
