BENIN CITY – The Chief Medical Director of University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Idia Ize-Iyamu, on Monday flagged off activities marking the 2026 celebration of World Oral Health Day 2026 with the announcement of a 50 percent reduction in the cost of selected dental treatments for patients.
The initiative, which forms part of efforts to promote oral health awareness and improve access to dental care, will run from March 16 to March 19 at the UBTH Dental Clinic.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Prof. Ize-Iyamu said the hospital decided to introduce the discounted services to encourage more Nigerians to pay closer attention to their oral hygiene and take advantage of professional dental care.
She explained that patients visiting the dental clinic during the four-day exercise would enjoy reduced charges on a number of essential procedures, including scaling and polishing, tooth extractions, glass ionomer cement (GIC) restorations and dental radiographs.
According to her, the initiative is part of the hospital’s contribution to the global observance of World Oral Health Day and its commitment to preventive healthcare.
“This show of love and this show of strength is very heart-warming, and I am delighted to be in your midst today as you are about to flag off your walk for awareness,” the CMD said while expressing support for the activities organised by dental health professionals.
She stressed that oral health remains a vital component of overall well-being, noting that increased awareness and early treatment of dental conditions would help prevent serious complications.
The global oral health campaign, observed annually on March 20, is organised by dental professionals worldwide to highlight the importance of good oral hygiene and access to dental services.
This year’s celebration, themed “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” aims to encourage individuals, families and communities to adopt better oral health practices and seek timely dental care.
As part of the programme, dental professionals and health advocates are also expected to embark on awareness campaigns and community engagements to educate the public on proper oral hygiene and preventive dental care.
