Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU-COD holds second Nat’l Dental Health Month observance

By Bea Angelina Duldulao  
 

In celebration of the 22nd National Dental Health Month, the Mariano Marcos State University-College of Dentistry (MMSU-COD) opened its second month-long observance on February 3. The activities aim to strengthen oral health awareness and help shape future dental professionals.
 

The opening activities began with a campus motorcade led by COD faculty members, students, and staff, symbolizing the college’s collective commitment to promoting oral health advocacy within and beyond the university.
 

During the afternoon program, Dr. Melchor Sarmiento, COD Associate Dean, reminded students that the path toward becoming dental professionals is challenging and requires perseverance, dedication, and sustained commitment. Quoting, “It seems impossible until it’s done,” Dr. Sarmiento encouraged students to remain focused on their goals despite academic and professional hurdles.
 

As part of the month-long observance, the lone public dentistry college in the north lined up outreach and educational activities such as dental health education, anti-vaping campaigns, toothbrushing drills, and fluoride application. These initiatives reflect the university’s role in promoting oral health awareness and preventive care as integral to overall well-being.
 

National Dental Health Month is observed every February by virtue of Proclamation No. 559, issued on February 24, 2004, by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The proclamation expanded the observance from one week to a full month in response to the high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases in the country.
 

The mandate empowers the Philippine Dental Association and the Department of Health to intensify public education campaigns and deliver dental services, particularly to underserved communities, underscoring oral health as an important component of public health.