Ministry of Health, Oral-B, Crest hold free dental check-ups for children in UAE

Healthy Smiles Day is a community event that encourages adopting good oral hygiene practices. Children will get a free dental check-up and receive tips from professionals on how to take better care of their teeth. Families will also enjoy a day filled with entertainment and games.

This is the 3rd Annual Healthy Smiles Day in the UAE and has been met with success in Dubai in previous years. Last year, over 10,000 people were present and over 2,800 kids received free of charge dental check-ups.

"The success of Healthy Smiles Day over the past 2 years in Dubai has encouraged us to take part in expanding this informative day to other Emirates," commented Ihab El Labban - Manager, P&G Professional Oral Health, Middle East.

"Our objective is to continue to stress the importance oral hygiene has towards the development of a healthier society. We are proud to be collaborating with the Ministry of Health for the third consecutive year and providing the public education on the importance of proper oral hygiene practices," said Ihab El Labban. "Oral-B and Crest are committed to providing support and contributing to the success of the MOH's oral disease prevention efforts."

Primary or "baby" teeth are more important than most people think. Besides chewing, they help children speak clearly and also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to come out. Just as kids' grow physically and develop mentally over the years - so do their teeth and mouths. Kids' oral development is very complex, requiring specialized care at each stage. Parents should prioritize providing their child with the correct size toothbrush and must establish good oral health habits for their children at an early age. Children must brush their teeth at least a twice a day and use Fluoride toothpastes that provide effective cavity protection.

Healthy Smiles Day will be held on Thursday 5th March 2009 at Al Manar Mall, Ras Al Khaimah from 11:00am - 10:00pm. Everyone is welcome to take part as dentists and nurses from Ras Al Khaimah Dental Center will conduct free of charge dental check-ups for children.