Programs Conducted during the Makalu Dental Clinic Free Dental Camp
The free dental camp organized by Makalu Dental Clinic, in collaboration with public health experts and volunteers from Japan, was held from January 10th to 26th, 2025, across 5 schools in Makalu and Bhotkhola Rural Municipality. The camp aimed to bring dental care and education to rural communities where healthcare access is severely limited. Despite the significant logistical challenges posed by the remote terrain, the camp was a resounding success. Below is an overview of the key programs and activities conducted during this initiative:
Overcoming Logistical Challenges to Reach Remote Areas
Reaching the villages in Makalu and Bhotkhola Rural Municipality was one of the most challenging aspects of the camp. These areas lack proper road infrastructure, and the journey involved traversing narrow trails, steep inclines, and rugged terrain. The remote nature of these villages made it impossible to transport equipment using vehicles.
To overcome these difficulties, porters from the local community played an essential role in carrying the dental equipment, medical supplies, and other essential items to the schools where the camp was held. The commitment and resilience of the porters were instrumental in making this camp possible, as they navigated the challenging paths with heavy loads to ensure the success of the initiative.
Despite these hardships, the team’s determination to reach the underserved children in these communities drove the success of the camp. The collaborative efforts of the local community, porters, and volunteers underscored the shared commitment to improving the health and education of these children.
Oral Health Check-ups for 290 Children
The primary focus of the dental camp was to provide free dental check-ups to children in five schools across Makalu and Bhotkhola. A total of 290 children, ranging from young students to older teens, were examined by a team of skilled dentists, public health dentistry experts, and Japanese volunteers.
This program ensured that each child received a thorough oral health evaluation. Issues such as cavities, plaque buildup, misalignment, and gum problems were identified and addressed. For many children, this was their first dental check-up, providing an invaluable opportunity to receive professional care and guidance on maintaining oral health.
Use of Disclosing Agents for Personalized Health Education
A hands-on approach was used to educate children about oral hygiene. Disclosing agents, which temporarily stain plaque and bacteria on the teeth, were applied during the check-ups. This method visually highlighted areas where brushing and cleaning were inadequate, making the children more aware of their oral health.
The dental team used this as a teaching tool, explaining the importance of proper brushing and how to avoid plaque buildup. Each child received personalized advice on improving their oral hygiene habits, fostering a deeper understanding of dental care.
Brushing Technique Demonstrations
Teaching proper brushing techniques was a key part of the program. Using visual aids and live demonstrations, the dental professionals explained the correct motions for brushing, the duration of brushing, and the importance of cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Children were encouraged to practice these techniques under the supervision of the dental team, ensuring they understood the steps thoroughly. The team emphasized brushing along the gumline to prevent gum disease and remove plaque effectively. This practical education empowered children with the knowledge to care for their teeth in the long term.
Distribution of Toothbrushes to Children
To ensure that children could put their newly learned brushing techniques into practice, the team distributed toothbrushes to all participants. Many of these children had limited or no access to basic dental supplies, and this simple provision played a vital role in improving their oral health.
Each child received an age-appropriate toothbrush, accompanied by instructions on how to care for it and when to replace it. This program addressed one of the critical barriers to good oral hygiene in rural areas: access to dental supplies.
Teeth Cleaning, Caries Removal, and Cavity Restoration
During the camp, the team performed professional teeth cleaning for many children, removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains. For children with cavities, the team provided restorative treatments, including caries removal and cavity filling.
These treatments were carried out with great care, ensuring the children were comfortable and pain-free throughout the process. By addressing existing dental issues, the team not only alleviated current problems but also prevented further complications, improving the children’s overall quality of life.
Emergency Pain Relief
For children suffering from dental pain due to untreated cavities, infections, or other issues, the team provided emergency care. Temporary fillings, pain management solutions, and antibiotics for infections were administered as needed.
This program brought immediate relief to children who had been living with significant discomfort. The dental team worked tirelessly to ensure that no child left the camp without receiving the care they needed.
Donation of Books, Sports Kits, and Study Materials
Beyond providing dental care, the team also aimed to support the overall development of the children. As part of the camp, books, sports kits, and study materials were donated to the participating schools. These donations were intended to encourage education and extracurricular activities, contributing to the holistic growth of the children.
The books included educational and storybooks suitable for different age groups, fostering a culture of reading and learning. The sports kits contained equipment such as footballs, volleyballs, and other items to promote physical activity and teamwork among students. Study materials, including notebooks, pens, and pencils, were distributed to support their academic needs.
This gesture was warmly received by the schools and the children, adding a layer of joy and excitement to the camp.
Follow-Up Recommendations and Oral Health Education
At the end of the camp, each child received personalized recommendations for maintaining their oral health. This included guidance on brushing twice daily, avoiding sugary foods, and visiting a dentist regularly.
Parents and teachers were also encouraged to take an active role in promoting oral hygiene. Educational materials, including pamphlets and posters, were distributed to schools and families, offering practical tips for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Acknowledgment of Support and Community Involvement
The success of this camp was a testament to the collaborative efforts of everyone involved. From the local community to the volunteers from Japan, the contributions of each individual played a crucial role. The porters, in particular, were invaluable in overcoming the challenges of transporting equipment to remote locations.
The financial and material support provided by donors also made a significant difference. Thanks to their generosity, the camp was able to provide free dental care, education, and resources to children who might otherwise have gone without.
The success of the dental camp would not have been possible without the generous funding of 20,000 Yen (NPR 170,000) provided by Mr. Tamagawa Hideki from Japan, representing the NPO Nepal Ma Jane Group. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Hideki and the NPO Nepal Ma Jane Group for their unwavering support and belief in our mission to make dental care accessible in remote communities. Your contribution played a pivotal role in providing essential dental services, oral health education, and resources to 290 children in Makalu and Bhotkhola Rural Municipality. Thank you for helping us bring brighter and healthier smiles to these underserved areas.
