On Thursday, the health department began a program called "punnagai" (smile) oral health screenings for pupils at a government school in Nandanam, Chennai. Health Minister Ma Subramanian announced that classes VI, VII, and VIII students in corporation, government, and aided institutions would be covered. Schools from throughout the state will now participate in the initiative.

Statistics report up to 60% of kids in India between the ages of 5 and 15 have oral health issues such as plaque buildup, evident caries, gum inflammation, poor breath, and gum bleeding. Dental health professionals will go to schools and instruct students on washing their teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene. At least 4.5 lakh students will be covered. The health minister stated that because older children are more knowledgeable, younger students from classes six through eight should be prioritized for dental care. Additionally, physicians will discuss the harmful consequences of smoking/tobacco on health and urge schools to continue being "no tobacco zones."

Previously, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Minister for School Education, and Subramanian formally launched the mobile dental clinic.

 (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/state-launches-oral-health-camp-for-school-students/articleshowprint/98530785.cms?val=3728)