This Spring, a few of my classmates and I formed a group for volunteer work. Our goal was to decrease the prevalence of gingivitis is the adolescent demographic.

The key to improving the oral hygiene of this population is through education. We decided the most effective and realistic method to reach our goals was to teach this demographic methods to stabilize or prevent periodontal disease. These methods include toothbrushing, flossing, using an antiseptic mouth rinse, and scheduling routine dental visits. In addition, instruction videos, handouts, pictures, and “goody” bags were used as teaching aids.

Next, all that was left to do is find the perfect environment to give this demonstration.   As a group, we decided that the best learning environment is one in which the adolescents are in their comfort zone, but a formal discussion could still be had. Thus, our group decided to visit the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church for an afternoon of fellowship and oral health discussion with the youth.

We traveled with our typodonts, new toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouth rinse and instructions on how to properly brush the teeth. We demonstrated various toothbrushing methods and explained the significance of maintaining good oral hygiene. The youth were very attentive to the images of how cavities look and methods to preventing cavities.

Since this is an Asian church, we were sure to have the proper translations along with each of our teaching aids. In addition, three of our group members speak fluent Chinese. This was helpful in preventing any language barriers.

In the end, all members of this group were taught proper oral hygiene instructions. They also seemed motivated to apply these instructions into their daily regimen. We encouraged them to share what they learned with their family and friends.