February 2025, Volume 3, Issue 2

Author

Deepali Agarwal, Bharathi Purohit, Upendra Singh Bhadauria, Sneha Malhotra, Manali Deb Barma and Harsh Priya

Abstract

The primary role of border security personnel is to safeguard borders against illegal trans-border activities during peacetime and provide military support during wartime. Medical facilities are available to residents, offering direct oral care for minor procedures, with comprehensive dental treatments managed through empanelled clinics under a government insurance system. This study aimed to evaluate the oral health status, treatment needs, and prevalence of oral pre-malignant conditions among security forces personnel and their families at training centres in Delhi NCR. A multi-centric cross-sectional study was conducted at three training centres. Permission was obtained from BSF headquarters for the oral health screening program. Oral health education topics included oral cancer screening, early detection, oral diseases, their prevention, and tobacco cessation. Brief explanations of dental procedures, such as pit and fissure sealants, dental caries restoration, and root canal treatments, were provided. Demonstrations of proper brushing techniques and oral hygiene maintenance measures were conducted. Participants were encouraged to discuss experiences and challenges, which were addressed by attending clinicians. Following the sessions, oral screenings identified oral diseases and pre-malignant lesions. Affected participants were informed about their condition and referred for treatment. Those using tobacco were counselled, provided with educational materials, and motivated to quit. The study concluded that the oral health status of BSF personnel was comparable to the general population, possibly due to the rigorous physical and medical fitness criteria required during recruitment.