A corps member’s grassroots dental campaign in Sokoto is filling a critical healthcare gap, bringing basic oral care to over 1,000 underserved residents.

More than 1,000 secondary school students and residents in Sokoto State have received free dental consultations through a community outreach organized by Edibo Peter Princess, a corps member serving at the Specialist Hospital.
Held last week in Sokoto South Local Government Area, the initiative offered dental screenings, basic treatments, and oral health education—services that remain out of reach for many in the community.

Participants received care ranging from tooth extractions to replacements for missing teeth, alongside guidance on maintaining proper oral hygiene. A question-and-answer session allowed residents to better understand preventive care and the long-term importance of dental health.

“Oral hygiene goes beyond keeping the mouth disease-free,” Princess said during the event.

A graduate of dental technology from Ogun State Polytechnic of Health and Allied Sciences, she cautioned against excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods, noting their role in common dental problems.

She also emphasized that routine dental care should not be treated as occasional. “Checkups and cleanings should be done every six months,” she said, urging residents to adopt more consistent habits.

Beyond immediate treatment, the outreach sought to close a broader knowledge gap. Many participants, particularly students, left with a clearer understanding of how to prevent common dental diseases.

Princess acknowledged the support of sponsors and called for greater institutional backing, arguing that oral health remains an overlooked aspect of public health.

“Oral health is an important part of general well-being,” she said. “Yet many school children and community members lack access to even basic dental care.”