The Department of Periodontics, SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University, celebrated Oral Hygiene Day on 1 August 2026 with a series of awareness and engagement activities aimed at promoting the importance of oral health and hygiene.

Oral Hygiene Day is observed across India in honour of Dr. Govind B. Shankwalkar, an Indian pioneer in Periodontology and the founder of the Indian Society of Periodontology. The occasion serves as an opportunity to create awareness about maintaining good oral hygiene and its importance in overall health.

The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries, including Dr. Balaram Naik, Principal; Dr. Mahantesh and Dr. Harikesh, Vice Principals; and Dr. Monika Goswamy, Head of the Department of Periodontics. Dr. Koustubh and Dr. Sheeksha, postgraduate students, served as the Masters of Ceremony.

As part of the programme, undergraduate students delivered informative talks on oral health. Ms. Shriya, Final Year BDS student, highlighted the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene in daily life, while Mr. Atmanand, Third Year BDS student, spoke about the relationship between periodontal diseases and general health.

The chief guests distributed oral care kits to patients visiting the Department of Periodontics. House surgeons who actively participated in the various activities conducted as part of Oral Hygiene Day were also presented with tokens of appreciation in recognition of their involvement.

To further promote oral health awareness among patients, the house surgeons presented an educational skit highlighting the importance of oral hygiene and regular dental care.

Adding an element of interaction and engagement for patients, a “Spin the Wheel” activity was organised at the department reception. Patients participating in the activity were offered discounts on scaling procedures, encouraging them to take proactive steps towards maintaining their oral health.

The celebration successfully combined education, awareness and interactive activities, reinforcing the importance of oral hygiene and its significant role in maintaining overall health.