FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Oct 4: In a pioneering initiative blending technology with preventive healthcare, Safe Hands Dental Health and Awareness Center conducted an AI-based School Oral Health Awareness Programme at Tyndale Biscoe and Mallinson School, Srinagar, on Saturday. The programme aimed to promote preventive oral health practices among students through artificial intelligence–driven screening, expert-led awareness sessions, and interactive demonstrations.
The event, inaugurated by Mrs. Rina Ojeda, Holistic Health Coach and Managing Director of Harmony by Safe Hands, underscored the importance of disease prevention through holistic lifestyle practices. Mrs. Ojeda highlighted that integrating AI into dental screening represents a significant step toward early diagnosis and improved student wellness.
Welcoming the gathering, the Principal of Tyndale Biscoe School praised the collaborative effort between Safe Hands and the school administration, emphasizing the need to cultivate lifelong health habits among young learners.
The clinical session was led by Dr. Tieeka Rashid, Head Clinician and Founder of Safe Hands, who shared his journey as an alumnus of Tyndale Biscoe School and explained the scientific process of dental caries formation. Dr. Shahina Yasmin, Head of the Awareness Division at Safe Hands, delivered a presentation on how oral health influences overall systemic well-being.
Addressing the students and faculty, Dr. Muhammad Lukman spoke about managing common sports-related dental injuries, while Mrs. Ojeda conducted an engaging session titled “Food that Heals and Food that Kills,” focusing on the dangers of processed foods and their societal impact. Dr. Mumin Rashid, Consultant Specialist at Safe Hands, briefed participants about the ongoing campaign “Reaching the Unreached” and demonstrated a live tooth-brushing session.
Dr. Zainab Shafat, an alumna of Mallinson School, successfully supervised the AI-based screening session led by Mrs. Shabnum and her team comprising Ms. Soliha Sofi, Ms. Aamina, Ms. Iqra, Ms. Mehvish, Ms. Saima, Ms. Henna, and Mr. Gulzar. The screenings employed advanced imaging and diagnostic algorithms to assess enamel health, detect early cavities, and flag potential orthodontic issues. Strict privacy protocols were followed, and personalized WhatsApp-based reports were shared with parents, providing tailored follow-up recommendations.
The programme’s Guest of Honour, Mr. Mateen Khan, an alumnus of Tyndale Biscoe School, appreciated Safe Hands for introducing AI-powered preventive dental initiatives for schoolchildren. During the event, Mrs. Shabnum was also honoured with a Lifetime Dedication Award for being the most dedicated staff member of Safe Hands.
The awareness programme featured expert-led talks on brushing techniques, flossing, oral hygiene, diet, and the importance of regular dental checkups. Interactive demonstrations and Q&A sessions encouraged active student participation, making oral health education engaging and practical.
According to organizers, the initiative led to the early detection of oral health issues, enabling timely interventions and preventive care. The event also enhanced awareness among students, parents, and teachers regarding oral hygiene, nutrition, and regular dental visits. Participants were given oral health self-assessment forms and take-home guides to promote healthy practices within their families.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks extended to all speakers, clinicians, school authorities, staff, and students for their cooperation. The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to advancing community oral health through education, innovation, and preventive care, marking a significant milestone in Kashmir’s journey toward tech-enabled school health programmes.
