Students at Falealupo Primary School on the big island of Savaii  were beaming with bright smiles at the commemoration of National Toothbrushing Day last week. 

The main drive behind the initiative was to educate children about the proper techniques of tooth brushing and other important methods of dental hygiene such as flossing and proper use of toothpaste. 

As part of the commemoration, Dr. Emosi Ah Ching from the Malietoa Tanumafili II Dental Unit in Tuasivi conducted a clinic at Falealupo Primary school. 

"Tooth decay continues to be a chronic disease amongst our community and the world," Dr. Ah Ching told this newspaper.  

"A disease that is preventable given the right health practice."

Speaking on the importance of hosting clinics in school on National Tooth Brushing day every year, Dr. Ah Ching is a true believer that education is key to anything in life. 

"Celebrating National Toothbrushing Day is crucial to reinforce the importance of children's oral health and promote good toothbrushing habits recommended  by dental experts. 

"On this day, teachers, students and parents are encouraged to make sure their kids brush their teeth for two minutes, twice a day.

"Education is the key to everything and National Toothbrushing Day focuses on the importance of good toothbrushing in the prevention of tooth decay by brushing away and removing dental plaque which is a combination of food and bacteria that cause de-minieralisation of the tooth causing cavity. 

"It was important the use of a fluoride toothpaste was used correctly in helping to re-mineralise teeth. And so by avoiding rinsing of the toothpaste after brushing will allow the flouride to work longer inside the mouth. 

"Simple messages and techniques for good oral hygiene will ensure the prevention of tooth decay and a healthier mouth and smile."

Another message that was highlighted was healthy diets and eating habits of the students. 

The national event is an initiative by Colgate-Palmolive, Fiji and they have kindly supplied Samoa with Bright smiles, Bright Future toothbrushing kits that has allowed for the clinics to happen as well as other dental community outreach programs.

"We had the idea of making this presentation as interactive as possible with some fun and rewarding games for the kids. And we saw the participation by the kids, and teachers, dancing, and learning. This made our day much more rewarding to see their smiles and excitement during our program. 

"The inspiration for me is to give back to our Samoan community and that has allowed me to share my knowledge and skills for a good cause. Our dental community in Savaii is very small but we will do our very best to make a big impact on our big island of Savai'i."

Dr. Ah Ching wanted to thank the strong support of those who helped make Colgate National Toothbrushing Day a success.

He extended his appreciation to the Ministry of Health for their continuous support, the Sataua District Hospital nurses, Department of Oral and Dental Health Services in Samoa, Falealupo Primary School and the M.T.II Hospital services.