About 92.

4% of Filipinos have tooth decay (dental caries) and 78% have gum diseases
(periodontal diseases) based on the 1998 National Monitoring and Epidemiological Dental
Survey (NMEDS)

The 2006 National Oral Health Survey revealed that 97.1% of six-year-old children suffer
from tooth decay. More than four out of every five children of this subgroup manifested
symptoms of dentinogenic infection.

According to NOHS, 74% of 12 year olds suffer from gingivitis. If not treated early, these
children become susceptible to irreversible periodontal disease as they approach
adulthood.

In the Philippines, toothache is a common ailment among schoolchildren, and is the

primary cause of absenteeism from school. Dental and oral diseases create a silent
epidemic, placing a heavy burden on Filipino schoolchildren. Poor oral health can lead to
arthritis, heart disease, endocarditis, gastro-intestinal diseases, and ocular-skin infections.

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 promotion of oral health and quality oral health care.     

OBJECTIVES AND TARGETS:

1.      The prevalence of dental caries is reduce         

Annual Target  : 5% reduction of the prevalence rate every year

2.      The prevalence of periodontal disease is reduced

Annual Targets  : 5% reduction of the prevalence rate every year

3.      Dental caries experience is reduced

Annual Target  : 5% reduction of the mean dmft/DMFT for 5/6 years old and 12 years old children every year

4.      The proportion of Orally Fit Children (OFC) 12-71 months old is increased                       

Annual Targets :  Increased by 20% yearly        

Periodontal disease, and dental caries are among the most common causes of tooth decay in the Philippines. The
national government aims to reduce the prevalence rate of these diseases by 60% by the end of 2016. The program
seeks to provide a continuum of oral health care for Filipinos through a lifecycle approach. This approach provides a
package of essential basic oral services.