Participants of the review meeting.
Kohima, September 12 (MExN): The two-day State Review Meeting and training program for dental surgeons and ASHA coordinators under the National Oral Health Program (NOHP) concluded today at the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare.
The event, which took place from September 12-13, was chaired by Dr. Reyosalu Lase, Deputy Director and State Program Officer (SPO) for NOHP. Principal Director, Dr E Motsuthung Patton, graced the occasion as the special guest, while Dr. Akuo Sorhie, Mission Director of the National Health Mission (NHM), served as the guest of honor.
The meeting featured a range of presentations and discussions aimed at addressing key issues in oral health care. Dr. Meribeni Odyuo delivered the keynote address, setting the tone for the gathering. Dr. Neingutunuo Angami, a Senior Dental Surgeon at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), presented an insightful session on the prevention of endodontic mishaps, highlighting best practices in dental procedures. Dr. Pfukrolo Koza, Senior Dental Surgeon at District Hospital Phek, shared valuable insights on dental age determination, particularly in legal cases involving victims and perpetrators. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Arenal Walling, Joint Director and State Nodal Officer for the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP).
During the event, awards were presented to outstanding individuals and institutions in recognition of their contributions to oral health care. District Hospital Dimapur was named the Best Dental Health Unit, while Dr. Neingutunuo Angami of NHAK Kohima received the award for Best Dental Surgeon in a district hospital setting. Dr. Lichamo Tungoe, Junior Dental Surgeon at CHC Bandari, was recognized as the Best Dental Surgeon at a community health center.
Additional awards were given under the National Oral Health Program. Dr. Imtimenla T. Nokdy from District Hospital Mon received the award for Best Dental Surgeon, while Dr. Japheth Yeputho from District Hospital Dimapur was named Best Dental Hygienist. The award for Best Dental Assistant went to Dr. Mhonsenli Yanthan from NHAK Kohima.
The National Oral Health Program, launched in 2014-15, aims to strengthen public health facilities across India by providing accessible, affordable, and comprehensive oral health care. The program seeks to improve the oral health status of people across all age groups, reducing the burden of oral diseases. According to the World Health Organization, oral health is vital for overall well-being, encompassing freedom from chronic oro-facial pain, oral cancers, and various other conditions affecting the cranio-facial complex.
The meeting also highlighted the rising prevalence of oral health issues, particularly periodontal diseases and dental caries, which pose a significant public health burden. The speakers emphasized the need to integrate oral health care with general health care, moving away from compartmentalized approaches.
The role of dental surgeons in society was underscored throughout the meeting, with the speakers noting their responsibility not only in treating patients but also in raising awareness about oral hygiene and the harmful effects of tobacco use. Advances in dental science, such as tele-dentistry, 3D printing, dental implants, and AI-driven treatment planning, were also discussed, with an emphasis on the importance of staying updated with the latest technologies to provide the best care possible.
