Department of Periodontology, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai
In association with the Indian Society of Periodontology (ISP)
Date: 1st August 2026
Venue: Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai

The Department of Periodontology, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, in association with the Indian Society of Periodontology (ISP), celebrated Oral Hygiene Day on 1st August 2026 with great enthusiasm and commitment to promoting oral health awareness among the public. The event was conducted under the inspiring theme:

“Clean Mouth, Healthy Life – A Bright Future.”

The celebration was organized under the guidance and encouragement of Dr. Dimple Padave, Dean, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, and was led by Dr. Akshaya Banodkar, Professor & Head, Department of Periodontology. The event witnessed active participation from the faculty members, postgraduate students, undergraduate students, interns, and supporting staff of the department.

The celebration also paid tribute to Dr. G. B. Shankwalkar, whose pioneering contributions to the field of Periodontology continue to inspire generations of dental professionals.

Activities Conducted

1. School Dental Check-up and Oral Health Awareness Camp

A comprehensive dental screening camp was organized for school children. Oral examinations were carried out, and children were educated on:

* Importance of maintaining oral hygiene
* Correct tooth brushing techniques
* Prevention of dental caries and gum diseases
* Healthy dietary practices for good oral health

Educational pamphlets were distributed, and interactive sessions encouraged students to adopt healthy oral hygiene habits.

2. Oral Hygiene Awareness Rally

An awareness rally was conducted to spread the message of oral health among the general public. Faculty members, postgraduate students, undergraduate students, interns, and staff participated enthusiastically while carrying placards displaying oral health messages and slogans. The rally successfully highlighted the importance of plaque control, regular dental check-ups, and preventive oral care.

3. Slogan Competition

A slogan-writing competition was organized to encourage creativity and increase awareness regarding oral hygiene. Participants presented innovative and impactful slogans emphasizing preventive dentistry and healthy oral habits.

4. Poster Exhibition

A poster exhibition showcased informative and creative posters prepared by students on various aspects of oral health, including:

* Prevention of periodontal diseases
* Tooth brushing techniques
* Tobacco cessation
* Oral-systemic health relationship
* Importance of regular dental visits

The exhibition attracted considerable attention and served as an effective educational tool.

Organizing Committee

The event was successfully coordinated by the faculty members of the Department of Periodontology under the leadership of Dr. Akshaya Banodkar (Professor & Head).

The organizing committee comprised:

* Dr. Gulnar Sethna – Associate Professor
* Dr. Nilofar Attar – Associate Professor
* Dr. Chitra Patil – Assistant Professor
* Dr. Harshad Jain – Assistant Professor
* Dr. Monika Patil – Assistant Professor
* Dr. Payal Ninawe – Assistant Professor
* Dr. Shushrusha Shirsat – Assistant Professor
* Dr. Sangeeta Barot – Dental Surgeon

Faculty members, postgraduate students, interns, and undergraduate students worked together to ensure the smooth conduct of all activities.

Conclusion :

The Oral Hygiene Day celebration successfully fulfilled its objective of creating awareness regarding the importance of oral hygiene and periodontal health among school children and the community. The enthusiastic participation of students, faculty, and staff reflected the department’s commitment to promoting preventive oral healthcare.

The Department of Periodontology expresses its sincere gratitude to Dr. Dimple Padave, Dean, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, for her constant encouragement and support, which contributed significantly to the success of the programme. Appreciation is also extended to Dr. Akshaya Banodkar, Professor & Head, Department of Periodontology, for her leadership and meticulous planning, and to all faculty members, students, interns, and staff for their wholehearted participation in making the event a grand success.