In celebration of National Oral Health Month, students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Discipline of Dentistry hosted two impactful outreach events that highlighted the importance of preventive dental care.

The initiatives, led by second- and third-year students, took place at King DinuZulu Hospital and the Westville campus Quad, reflecting the Discipline’s commitment to combining classroom learning with community engagement.

The campaigns formed part of the students’ community-based training, which blends academic instruction with practical experience and public health outreach. By taking their skills beyond the lecture hall, the students demonstrated how education and service can work together to improve health outcomes across KwaZulu-Natal.

On 11 September 2025, second-year Dental Therapy students hosted an oral health awareness campaign at King DinuZulu Hospital. Guided by co-ordinators Mr Ryan Nkosi and Dr Ashveer Gopie, and supported by the Department of Health’s dental staff, the students engaged patients and visitors through interactive presentations, demonstrations, and free screenings. Their successful efforts in securing sponsorships enabled them to distribute more than 200 hygiene packs, bottles of water, and snack packs, creating a welcoming and educational atmosphere for all who attended.

Using posters, pamphlets, and presentations in English and isiZulu, the students covered essential topics such as proper brushing and flossing, the role of diet in maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and the importance of regular dental check-ups. They also addressed the dangers of tobacco use and its link to gum disease and oral cancer, reinforcing how lifestyle choices affect overall oral health. These services were especially valuable for patients who may not otherwise have access to routine dental care.

A week later, on 18 September, third-year Oral Hygiene and Dental Therapy students brought the oral health message to their peers with a lively campus event at the Westville Quad. Co-ordinated again by Nkosi and Gopie, and supported by the Department of Health’s Oral Hygienist and Academic Leader for the Discipline of Dentistry, Dr Ilana Moodley, the campaign engaged students, staff, and visitors through free screenings, nutritional advice, and practical demonstrations on maintaining good oral hygiene. The involvement of Dental Therapy lecturers and Health Department staff added depth and credibility to the day’s activities, showcasing strong institutional backing for student-led public health campaigns.

A highlight of the campus event was the visit from the Colgate mobile dental van, led by UKZN graduate Ms Amanda Khena. The mobile clinic offered on-site screenings and educational activities, giving students valuable exposure to real-world oral health promotion. Engaging with the Colgate team underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in expanding access to oral care and preventive education.

In addition to oral health education, the students distributed toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss to encourage attendees to maintain healthy habits at home. Screenings were conducted under academic supervision, and individuals requiring further care were referred appropriately, ensuring continuity of support beyond the event itself.

Both initiatives were well received by patients, hospital staff, and members of the campus community. Attendees praised the students for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and ability to communicate effectively across different audiences. The Discipline of Dentistry plans to continue supporting similar outreach programmes, recognising their dual benefit of improving community health while enriching student learning.

As oral diseases remain a growing public health concern in South Africa, initiatives like these highlight UKZN’s commitment to equipping its students with the skills, empathy, and awareness needed to serve society. By combining education, research, and community service, UKZN’s Dentistry students are helping to build healthier, more informed communities – one smile at a time.