Government implements measures to bridge oral health gaps

GOVERNMENT is taking steps to address gaps in oral health service delivery in line with its commitment to improving access to quality and affordable services to all Zimbabweans, Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, has said.

Yesterday Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Oral Health Day and national commemorations were held at Kusile Primary School in Lupane District, Matabeleland North Province under the theme: “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind”.

Last year, Government bought and distributed 77 dental chairs, 37 intra Oral X-rays and 53 autoclave as part of efforts to meet oral health demands.

In his address, Dr Mombeshora who was represented by his deputy, Sleiman Kwidini, said oral health was a crucial part of the well-being of people hence Government is working on addressing existing gaps.

“In 2024, we conducted an Oral Health situational analysis with support from the World Health Organisation. The analysis identified gaps in service delivery, programme information and the availability of essential tools and equipment,” he said.

“In response, a National Oral Health Survey will be conducted this year to guide our efforts and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing quality oral health care.”

Dr Mombeshora said during this month, members of the public must take advantage of the free dental screenings being offered at all Government dental departments.

He said the promotion of oral health aligns with Vision 2030 whose emphasis is on improving health services to enable citizens to access quality health care.

Dr Mombeshora said the World Oral Health Day was significant for Zimbabwe and emphasised the need to raise awareness on benefits of a healthy mouth.

“Oral hygiene is vital for people of all ages. Good oral health contributes to daily functions such as facial appearance, self-confidence and overall well-being,” he said.

Government is also working on integrating Oral Health into Primary Healthcare framework, which is crucial for addressing both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Dr Mombeshora said this was being done to ensure oral health receives the attention it deserves alongside other public health priorities.

“Oral health shares common risk factors with the four major non-communicable diseases (NCDs) – cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory disease. These risk factors include tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and harmful alcohol consumption.

“As part of strategy, we are working to reduce these risk factors through policies like the sugar tax and promoting healthier lifestyles,” said Dr Mombeshora.

During the commemorations the ministry conducted free dental screenings with tooth removal and filling, among other services being offered.

Gogo Josephine Mpofu from Mpofini village who wanted to have her teeth filled said there was a need to increase access to oral health care as they are forced to travel to St Luke’s Hospital for dental services.

“We wish there could be dental services here at Lupane Centre because at the moment, we only access those at St Lukes Hospital,” she said.

Mr Mandlenkosi Nyoni from Daluka village said at times they are told that there are no consumables for tooth removal at St Luke’s Hospital.

He said as a result, many are forced to use traditional herbs, which sometimes do not work.

“At times we are forced to travel to Bulawayo for just a tooth removal, which is very expensive hence the need to ensure all that is required for tooth removal is always in stock at St Luke’s Hospital,” said Mr Nyoni.— @themkhust.