Fiji National University’s (FNU) School of Dentistry and Oral Health proudly partnered with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and Colgate Palmolive to commemorate World Oral Health Day at Dudley Intermediate School in Suva yesterday. This initiative will reinforce the importance of oral health among students in Fiji, encouraging them to embrace good hygiene practises.

As a global campaign, World Oral Health Day serves as a reminder that maintaining oral hygiene should be a priority for everyone.

This year’s theme for World Oral Health Day is ‘Happy Mouth, Happy Mind.’

Students from Fiji National University’s (FNU) School of Dentistry and Oral Health perform a skit to engage Dudley Intermediate School students during the World Oral Health Day celebration in Suva yesterday.

Dr Osea Gavidi Dukuno, Associate Professor in Oral Pathology at FNU’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, has urged the students to prioritise oral health. “We can ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles and well-being by brushing twice daily, eating a healthy diet, and regular dental check-ups to help ensure strong teeth and gums for life,” Dr Dukuno said.

Dr Dukuno explained that poor oral hygiene is linked to various health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and infections. Oral health also affects confidence and self-esteem. Issues like having a missing tooth and bad breath can lead to self-consciousness and social anxiety,” added Dr Dukuno.

(From left) Dr Osea Gavidi Dukuno, Associate Professor in Oral Pathology at the Fiji School of Medicine; Jyotika Devi, Marketing Manager for Colgate Palmolive Fiji and the Pacific Islands; and staff from Dudley Intermediate School during the World Oral Health Day celebration in Suva yesterday.

Jyotika Devi, Marketing Manager Colgate Palmolive Fiji and Pacific Islands remarked that oral health is not just about our teeth; it’s about our well-being, our confidence and our quality of life. “At Colgate, we believe that everybody deserves a future they can smile about. Every year, through our bright smiles and bright future programme, we reach out to thousands of people across Fiji and the Pacific teaching them simple yet powerful habits of brushing twice a day, making smart choices like eating healthy food and visiting the dentist twice a year,” Devi said.

Devi outlined Colgate Palmolive’s commitment based on three pillars: education on good oral health, enhancing access to healthcare facilities, and fostering partnerships. “Partnership is also very important and that is why we have FNU as our partners who are training the best dentists out there who can help you look after your oral health.  FNU plays an essential role in training future dentists and oral health professionals ensuring Fiji has the expertise to provide high quality care in future,” she added.

Students from Dudley Intermediate School actively participate in the World Oral Health Day celebration in Suva yesterday.

Students were encouraged to adopt key oral health practices such as:

• Brush and Floss Daily – Removes dental plaque, preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Visit the Dentist Regularly – Check-ups every six months help in early detection of issues.
• Eat a Balanced Diet – Nutrient-rich foods strengthen teeth, while sugary foods increase decay risk.
• Avoid Tobacco & Alcohol – Reduces risks of gum disease and oral cancer.
• Protect Your Teeth – Use a mouthguard for sports or teeth grinding.

The School of Dentistry and Oral Health under the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, plays a key role in training oral health professionals. To pursue this career, students must study science subjects.

For more information visit, http://www.fnu.ac.fj

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