Health Promoting Schools: A Powerful Means of Improving Community Oral Health for Future Generations of Pakistan

Abstract

Public health has shifted its focus towards social conditions that are responsible for achievement of oral health and prevention of oral diseases like dental caries, periodontal disease and oral cancer. The oral health burden on Pakistani population is alarming with children being the most common victim of oral dental diseases. At present knowledge and attitudes of influential professionals such as school teachers on oral health and school based preventive programs is poor. Health promoting school is a place where institutional policies, physical and social environment, relation with the community, curriculum and personal skills makes it a healthy setting for living, learning and working. School serves as a powerful setting for learning of children and healthy behaviors. Lifestyle developed within a school environment are said to be more sustainable. Dental professionals need to work in partnership with school teachers to change attitudes, beliefs and behavior along with provision of knowledge