A recent dental screening exercise in Tarkwa has revealed worrying levels of tooth decay among schoolchildren, with about one in every four pupils diagnosed with dental caries.
Dr. Victor Paintsil, a Dental Surgeon at Tarkwa Municipal Hospital, disclosed the findings during activities marking World Oral Health Day, where nearly 1,000 pupils were screened.
The exercise, organised by the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation in partnership with Unilever Ghana PLC through its Pepsodent brand, aimed to promote preventive oral healthcare among basic school pupils.
Held under the theme “A Happy Mouth is A Happy Life,” the event combined education with free dental screening and the distribution of hygiene products, including toothbrushes and toothpaste, to encourage better oral habits among children.
Dr. Paintsil attributed the high rate of dental caries largely to excessive sugar consumption and poor oral hygiene practices. He advised parents to monitor children’s diets, encourage brushing at least twice daily, and ensure regular dental check-ups.
Project Coordinator for the Foundation, Ayishetu Mohammed, noted that the initiative goes beyond awareness creation to include preventive care, with a target of reaching about 3,000 pupils this year.
The programme also leverages peer education, with trained pupils sharing knowledge on hygiene and healthy habits within their schools. According to Agnes Esi Quantson, this approach has proven effective, as children are more receptive to messages delivered by their peers.
Stakeholders say sustained education and early intervention are crucial to reversing the growing burden of dental diseases among school-aged children.
