public urged to brighten their smile at zaabeel park
Free dental check-ups for kids and entertainment for the entire family
The UAE Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Department of Health and Medical Services (DOHMS) in collaboration with Oral-B and Crest Arabian Peninsula, invite the public to Zaabeel Park in Dubai on Friday, October 26th for the 2nd Healthy Smiles Day. Healthy Smiles Day is a community event which invites UAE residents for a day of entertainment and education and free of charge dental check-ups for children below the age of twelve. Last year’s Healthy Smiles Day proved a huge success with over 12,000 attendees of all ages and close to 2,000 children receiving free of charge dental check-ups. This year’s Healthy Smiles Day promises to be even greater with more dentists on-site and greater entertainment acts for the entire family.
Dr. Mariam Matar, Assistant Undersecretary Public Health and Primary Healthcare sector, declared the Ministry of Health’s strong support towards health education and preventative health campaigns, especially ones directed to the community and endorsed by different authorities and corporate entities.
‘‘Following the success of the first Healthy Smiles Day it was only natural that an event with such appeal be replicated,’’ commented Dr. Ibrahim Arab, Director Dental Department MOH. ‘‘Moreover, with the FDI World Dental Congress being held in Dubai for the very first time, October will be a great month for healthy smiles and good oral
hygiene awareness. We strongly encourage parents in the UAE to come along with their families and enjoy this fun and informative day.’’
Dr. Tariq Khoory, Director Dental Center DOHMS, said: ‘‘The Healthy Smiles Day initiative is in-line with the Department of Health’s efforts to educate the public on the importance of proper oral hygiene practices. The state of children’s oral hygiene in Dubai is exasperating with 89% of children below the age of five displaying some form of tooth decay; be it moderate or high caries.’’
‘‘Healthy Smiles Day is an awareness building day which exemplifies Oral-B and Crest’s commitment to oral care education in the communities in which it operates,’’ said Ihab El Labban, Professional Relations Manager, P&G, Middle East & Pakistan. ‘‘This event is the result of our collaboration partnership with the public sector whereby Oral-B and Crest commit year on year to providing in-depth support and ensuring the success of the MOH and DOHMS’ oral disease prevention efforts.’’
Healthy Smiles Day will be held on Friday, October 26th, 2007 between 3.00- 9.00 pm at Zaabeel Park in Bur Dubai, Entrance 1-A. Everyone is welcome to take part. Dentists and nurses from the Ministry of Health and the Department of Health and Medical Services will conduct free of charge dental check-ups for children and give them a check-up information card with relevant recommendations. Families are invited to spend the day as activities from face painting to clown shows and juggling acts will ensure enjoyment for the entire family.
