25 August 2025
Promoting Oral Health Across Generations
ADAVB recently helped run two fantastic oral health education sessions—one for curious seniors and another for enthusiastic preschoolers.
Oral Health for Seniors – U3A Hawthorn:
Long-time ADAVB member Dr Harry Marget delivered an engaging and informative presentation at U3A Hawthorn on the topic “Oral Health for Seniors.” A group of 22 attentive participants gathered to learn about the fundamentals of oral anatomy and received practical advice on maintaining good oral health in later life. 
Dr Marget also took the opportunity to debunk several oral health myths—most notably, warning against the use of charcoal toothpaste. Despite its popularity, he explained, it “only leads to blackened teeth,” much to the audience’s amusement.
A live demonstration followed, showcasing the proper use of electric toothbrushes. One particularly memorable tip: “Brush north to south, not east to west.” The audience responded with great enthusiasm, asking many questions throughout. The session ended only due to time constraints, reflecting the high level of engagement and appreciation from attendees.
Oral Health for Kids – Nido Early Childcare Centre:
ADAVB member Dr Manvinder Bedi led an engaging oral health session at Nido Early Childcare Centre during Dental Health Week, connecting with a lively group of 4 to 6-year-olds. Dr Bedi introduced proper brushing techniques using an oversized tooth model, making it both educational and fun. She also spoke about foods that help support healthy teeth, tailoring the message to her young audience in a way they could easily understand. To wrap up the session, each child received a toothbrush and certificate—a fun highlight and a great way to encourage healthy habits at home.
Both sessions were incredibly well received, reflecting the importance and impact of oral health education at every age.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr Marget and Dr Bedi for generously volunteering your time and expertise in delivering these valuable community sessions!
