A bright smile can light up a room, but behind every confident grin is the foundation of good oral hygiene. Beyond the aesthetics, maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for overall well-being.
Neglecting oral care doesn’t just lead to cavities or gum disease; it can have far-reaching effects on your heart, digestive system, and even mental health.
From the simple act of brushing to the more intricate steps of preventive care, looking after your mouth is the first step towards safeguarding your body’s health. After all, a healthy smile truly reflects a healthy life.
For many, a trip to the dentist is a routine part of life, but for individuals with special needs or limited mobility, it can be a challenge.
In Brunei, however, access to dental care is becoming more inclusive, thanks to a remarkable initiative called Program Senyum Kasih programme.
A STEP FORWARD
The introduction of the Special Care Dentistry Unit in 2018 marked a major step forward in Brunei’s healthcare system.
With just two dedicated specialists, this unit is committed to providing dental care for individuals who face challenges due to physical, developmental, sensory, cognitive, or emotional issues.
Unlike regular dental practices, the care provided by this unit is tailored specifically to meet the unique needs of each patient, offering personalised services and treatments.
Meanwhile, the Dental Public Health Unit continues to be the backbone of Brunei’s oral health mission.
This unit plays a crucial role in improving dental care across the country, promoting preventive measures, and launching initiatives to address the diverse oral health needs of Brunei’s population.
Through programmes like Senyum Kasih programme, the unit ensures that no one is left behind when it comes to maintaining a healthy smile.
BRINGING SMILES HOME
Launched by the Special Care Dentistry and Dental Public Health units under the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) Department of Dental Services, this programme is making dental care more accessible than ever before.
According to Medical (Dental Officer) at the Department of Dental Services at the MoH Dr Liaw Yu Wen in a press release, by providing home-based dental visits and oral health education, it ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can maintain a healthy smile.
The Senyum Kasih initiative is an extension of the MoH’s commitment to offering comprehensive dental care to all, including those who may not have easy access to traditional dental clinics.
This is especially true for individuals with special needs, such as persons with different abilities (OKU) who are bed-bound or have mobility issues. Through this initiative, dental professionals bring essential care and preventive treatments directly to the homes of these individuals.
The goal is not only to provide check-ups but also to educate patients and their caregivers on how to maintain good oral health at home.
By addressing transportation barriers and the lack of suitable providers, the programme helps ensure that people with unique dental health needs receive the care they deserve, free from the prejudices or difficulties that might otherwise prevent them from accessing services.
In addition to Senyum Kasih programme, the Dental Public Health Unit runs various initiatives to improve oral health across age groups. These programmes cater to Brunei’s population, fostering good dental hygiene from a young age.
Senyum SiManja promotes oral health for toddlers aged one to five. Parents attend counselling sessions alongside their children, learning about dental care.
Annual check-ups and fluoride varnish treatments for children aged two and above help prevent cavities and protect young teeth.
Senyum Pelajar targets Year 1 and 2 students, focusing on preventing decay in permanent molars.
By applying dental sealants and fluoride varnish, the programme strengthens these vulnerable teeth and reduces the risk of future dental issues.
DENTAL CARE TO YOUR DOORSTEP
Dr Liaw Yu Wen also explained that during home visits, dental professionals perform routine check-ups and offer advice on oral hygiene.
They work closely with patients and their carers to ensure that proper brushing techniques are used, sometimes recommending specialised tools like the Superbrush, which is designed for people with limited dexterity.
To further protect teeth, the team applies fluoride varnish, a treatment with a high fluoride concentration (22,600ppm) that helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Educational materials are also provided to ensure that patients and their families can continue to take care of their teeth and gums between visits.
While the focus of these home visits is on prevention, the team also identifies any treatment needs. If more extensive care is required, follow-up appointments will be scheduled at a dental clinic to ensure that the patient receives the necessary treatment.
Participating in the programme is simple. If you or someone you know would benefit from home-based dental care, simply contact the team at 2380426 ext 146 to sign up.
After confirming eligibility, the team will schedule a visit at a time that suits you. It’s an easy and effective way to ensure that individuals with special needs receive the dental care they need without having to leave their homes.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
• Receive professional dental check-ups from the comfort of home.
• Learn important tips on maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Prevent future dental problems through early intervention.
• Suitable for individuals with mobility issues or special healthcare needs.
By joining the programme, you’ll be taking an important step towards better oral health and helping to ensure that dental care is accessible to all. – James Kon
