Oral health is an essential component of general health and is a major determinant of quality of life. Unfortunately, the oral disease continues to be a serious public health problem in the Philippines. Dental and oral diseases create a silent epidemic, placing a heavy burden on Filipino school children. Although tooth decay and gum diseases do not directly cause disability or death, it can weaken the body’s defense and serve as portals of entry to other more serious and potentially dangerous systemic diseases and infections. Serious conditions include arthritis, heart disease, endocarditis, gastrointestinal diseases, and ocular-skin-renal diseases. Aside from physical deformity, these two oral diseases may also cause disturbance of speech significant enough to affect work performance, nutrition, social interactions, income, and self-esteem.
Vision
Empowered and responsible Filipino citizens taking care of their own personal oral health for an enhanced quality of life.
Mission
The state shall ensure quality, affordable, accessible, and available oral health care delivery.
Goal
Attainment of improved quality of life through the promotion of oral health and quality oral health care.
Objectives
1. Prevalence of dental caries is reduced.
2. Prevalence of periodontal disease is reduced.
3. Dental caries experience is reduced.
4. Proportion of Orally Fit Child (OFC) 12-71 months is increased.
