Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, in association with the Indian Society of Periodontology and Implantology, celebrated National Periodontist Day on 23rd February 2026 with great enthusiasm and professional commitment. The programme was organized under the esteemed guidance of Dr. Jaideep Mahendra, Professor and Head of the Department of Periodontics (Organizing Chairman), and Dr. Ari Geetha, Professor, Department of Periodontics (Programme Coordinator), with the active support of the department faculty.
The celebration commenced with a tree-planting initiative titled “Fostering Healthy Smiles,” symbolizing the intrinsic link between environmental well-being and oral health. The initiative reinforced the institution’s commitment to sustainability, prevention, and community-centered healthcare.
As part of the awareness outreach, a special lecture titled “Enhancing Oral Health: A Periodontist’s Perspective on Hygiene” was delivered by postgraduate students Dr. Padmaja and Dr. Aisvarya. Approximately 60 patients benefited from the informative session, which addressed key topics including the prevention and management of bleeding gums, the importance of proper brushing techniques, and strategies for maintaining optimal oral hygiene. To further strengthen preventive practices, oral hygiene kits were distributed to all 60 participants, promoting consistent daily oral care and reinforcing the message of community service.
A quiz competition was organized to encourage academic engagement and knowledge enhancement among students, fostering enthusiasm for periodontics as a specialty. This was followed by an insightful lecture delivered by Dr. Jaideep Mahendra on oral hygiene and dentin hypersensitivity, which was attended by 87 third-year undergraduate students. The session provided valuable clinical insights and highlighted evidence-based approaches to managing common periodontal concerns.
The programme concluded with faculty members, postgraduate students, and staff joining together in celebration of National Periodontist Day, honoring the vital role of periodontists in preserving oral health and promoting preventive dentistry. The event stood as a meaningful tribute to professional excellence and public health awareness, underscoring the importance of early intervention and sustained oral hygiene practices.
