Oral health outreach brings smiles
FOR many residents of Rumah Sahabat, a drug rehabilitation centre in Hulu Langat, receiving dental care was a completely new experience.
A team of dental students from Universiti Malaya (UM) provided basic screenings, oral health education and HIV testing for the centre's residents, through a collaboration with the Hulu Langat District Health Office over four visits.
The community outreach project was part of their undergraduate service-learning course at UM's Faculty of Dentistry.
Left: The initiative was the first time many residents had received any form of oral care and education.
Recognising that former drug users often face stigma and barriers to healthcare, including dental treatment, the students designed a programme that focused on prevention, education and dignity.
'This project aimed to improve oral health and empower individuals in recovery by treating them with respect and compassion,' said student leader Mia Izrina Izzuddin.
Former drug users are among the most vulnerable and underserved groups who face barriers in accessing oral care due to biological, behavioural and lifestyle factors stemming from prolonged substance abuse, she said.
'They also face stigma and discrimination, which discourage them from seeking help, including dental treatment.
'For example, methamphetamine and heroin reduce saliva flow and lead to dryness in the mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and oral infections,' she said.
The students began the project with an assessment and followed up with educational talks, games, posters and videos.
Team members Muhamad Akif Sutiman and Dayang Nur Amira Awang Zaini developed a training module and reminder materials for trainers, incorporating Islamic values related to oral care to sustain the programme beyond the duration of the project.
Dental and HIV screenings were carried out on-site.
Students Nur Syafiqah Azizi, Shelby Ngooi and Tan Xuen Yue said they were inspired to continue serving marginalised groups, while Muhammad Shafiq Roslan, Low Zhe Hsien and Jaskiran Kaur Gill said they gained valuable clinical experience assisting lecturers during treatment sessions.
Meanwhile, Rachel Tham, Wong Xin Ning and Derrica Ladius highlighted the importance of coordination with agencies such as the National Anti-Drugs Agency, Drug Prevention Association of Malaysia and local health officials to help former drug users.
Rumah Sahabat manager Asyraf Amri said the initiative was deeply appreciated, noting that this was the first time many residents had received any form of oral care since entering the programme at the centre.
He added that the residents said they felt hopeful after interacting with the students.
A short-term evaluation also showed an improvement in oral health knowledge among the residents.
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