Signal partners Kingswood College Oral Care programme
In keeping with the brand’s vision of working “Towards a Cavity Free Sri Lanka”, Signal was in Kandy recently partnering in a school dental health programme, held in association with the Kandy District Dental Unit. “Medicare” was staged by the Kingswood College Batch of ‘90 to commemorate the 07th anniversary of the school’s medical centre and included oral health care along with other healthcare initiatives.
The highlight of the event was an awareness programme conducted by the Kandy District Dental Unit, on the importance of oral health for primary section students and teachers – the Unit also conducted a dental health check up which saw a tremendous participation of students and teachers of the school.
Dr Dilhan Hemachandra of the Kandy Hospital, an old boy of Kingswood College representing the Batch of ’90, who was associated with the Oral Health Initiative of Medicare, said that teaching children about proper dental care is important. He added that although the health care system in Sri Lanka is highly developed, there still exists a need to educate children on proper oral health. He further said that it was important for parents to take into consideration the types of food given to children. Giving sweets, snacks and biscuits etc must be supervised while ensuring proper dental care following such meals, he added.
Dr Hemachandra also opined that Signal’s “Towards a Cavity Free Sri Lanka” is a worthy project that lays emphasis on prevention of cavities rather than waiting to treat cavities. “Teaching children the value of regular brushing, particularly after meals, must be encouraged and recommended.”
Signal also provided the participating school children toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes as a gesture that fosters and supports developing sound oral care habits. Commenting on the Signal initiative of ensuring a cavity free Sri Lanka, students and teachers who took part in the programme expressed their gratitude towards being able to gain a better understanding of proper oral health care. “Proper dental care must start at home, at an early age and this type of education plays a key role” commented a teacher who participated in the event.
“Our mission of ensuring a Cavity free Sri Lanka is a project we aim to deliver to every Sri Lankan household,” said Wathsala Aluthgedara, Category Head – Oral Care at Unilever Sri Lanka, “It is something that is personal to every family, every individual. We want parents to understand the importance of teaching children proper oral health care habits early on, which can develop into lifelong habits that ensure sound health over-all.” Having recently celebrated 55 years of pioneering oral health care in Sri Lanka, Signal has always maintained a strong focus on educating parents and children on the importance of proper dental health and has consistently promoted sound oral health care habits. Signal introduced a fluoridated toothpaste to Sri Lanka in 1984 and has championed a campaign towards ‘Ensuring a Cavity Free Sri Lanka” as a part of its mission to the nation in ensuring oral health care.