Vusumuzi Dube
Tanaka Nkala, [email protected]
UNITED Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) commemorated World Oral Health Day on Friday with the official opening of its first-ever dental department, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to oral healthcare services in the city.
The event, held under the theme “A happy mouth is a happy mind,” highlighted the importance of oral health and brought together Government officials, healthcare professionals and members of the public. Free dental consultations and selected procedures were offered to patients throughout the day.
Guest of honour, Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube — represented by Deputy Director for Environmental Planning and Management, Mrs Norah Mupaza — said the occasion served both as a celebration and a call to action for communities to prioritise oral health.
“Oral health is often overlooked yet it is a fundamental part of overall health and well-being. A healthy mouth enables us to speak clearly, eat comfortably and smile with confidence.”
She noted that poor oral health can result in pain, infections and difficulties in eating, while also contributing to more serious conditions such as heart disease and complications in diabetes management.
“Today’s event is not just about commemorating the day but about encouraging individuals, families and communities to take oral health seriously.
“Initiatives like these are vital in promoting prevention, early detection and timely treatment of dental conditions,” said Minister Ncube.
The newly opened dental department is expected to ease pressure on existing Government dental facilities in Bulawayo and improve service delivery across the city.
Senior Government dental officer, Dr Sailas Usai, described the launch as the culmination of years of effort by various stakeholders.
“Many people were involved in trying to set up this unit over the years, and it is gratifying to see it finally come to life,” he said.
Dr Usai emphasised the link between oral health and general well-being, reinforcing the essence of this year’s theme.
“A healthy mouth is a healthy life. The mouth is the gateway to life, we eat, speak and socialise through it. Without good oral health it is difficult to achieve physical, mental and social well-being,” he said.
He encouraged members of the public to take advantage of the new facility and prioritise regular dental check-ups.
The new unit at UBH is expected to complement services offered at other public institutions such as Mpilo Central Hospital and Bulawayo Central Hospital, which have long handled the majority of dental cases in the city.
Health officials expressed optimism that the department would not only improve access to care but also strengthen public awareness of preventive oral health practices.
With the dental unit now operational, UBH has taken an important step in ensuring more residents in Bulawayo can access quality dental care — reinforcing the message that healthy mouths are key to healthier lives.
Online Reporter