On October 3^rd, 2024, we proudly launched Orthodontic Awareness Week at the Mangalore Press Club. Esteemed orthodontists Dr. Siddarth Shetty, Dr. Dhiraj Shetty, Dr. Ashith M.V, Dr. Mithun K, Dr. Arjun Nayak, Dr. Chaitra Laxmi, and Dr. Shravan Shetty were in attendance.

We addressed misconceptions and promoted new treatments, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and increased access to care. Our motto, "emBRACE Change, Empower Confidence," highlighted mental health advocacy, recognizing that malocclusion can significantly impact self-esteem and social anxiety. By fostering collaboration with the media and the community, we strive to improve oral health outcomes and promote a positive understanding of orthodontic treatments in our society. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the community at large.

Press meets effectively raised orthodontic awareness by providing accurate information to broad audiences. Experts educated the public on issues like misaligned teeth, malocclusions, and early treatment, while showcasing advancements in orthodontic technology such as clear aligners and 3D imaging, highlighting treatment improvements. The health benefits of orthodontic care, including better oral hygiene and long-term dental health, were emphasized. Cost and accessibility concerns were also addressed, discussing payment plans and insurance. Interactive Q&A sessions engaged the public, clarified misconceptions, and patient testimonials or celebrity endorsements further inspired interest in orthodontic care

An Instagram Reel competition was organized at KVG Dental College on 3^rd October 2024, at 11:00 AM, to raise awareness about orthodontic treatment. Participants actively created short, engaging reels highlighting the importance of orthodontic care, and the overall health benefits of proper treatment done by qualified IOS endorsed orthodontists. The competition effectively utilized social media to reach a younger audience, making orthodontic concepts more relatable and accessible. Through creative content and messaging, participants helped demystify orthodontics and promoted early treatment. This event significantly boosted public interest and awareness, contributing to a broader understanding of orthodontic care's importance in improving dental health.

A Smile Photography Competition was held at KVG Dental College on 4^th October 2024. The event encouraged participants to capture the beauty and confidence a healthy smile brings, highlighting the transformative effects of orthodontic treatment. Through creative photography, participants showcased the impact of well-aligned teeth on overall appearance and self-esteem. This competition aimed to raise awareness about the importance of orthodontic care in enhancing smiles, engaging students and the public in a visually appealing and educational way. The event fostered greater appreciation for orthodontics and its role in promoting both oral health and confidence.

The National Orthodontist Day celebration was held at A.J. Institute of Dental Sciences on 5^th October 2024, at 10:00 AM, honoring orthodontists and their contributions to improving oral health and patient confidence. Various activities, including informative talks and patient success stories, emphasized the importance of early orthodontic care. The department was beautifully decorated for the occasion, with vibrant banners, creative displays, and smile-themed decorations, creating an inviting and celebratory atmosphere. This thoughtful décor added to the festive spirit, making the event both visually engaging and memorable for attendees.

The official mascot of the Indian Orthodontic Society (IOS) was the "Tiger." This mascot symbolized strength, agility, and the importance of a confident smile, aligning with the goals of orthodontic care.

In honor of Orthodontic Awareness Week, the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group (MOSG) was excited to support the traditional Tiger Dance (Pilli Yesha) as a unique way to promote orthodontic care while celebrating the rich local culture.

This initiative aimed to connect with regional communities by blending essential health education with cultural pride. They had their own Mini Tiger Mascot, the son of esteemed MOSG member Dr. Harshitha! Through this beloved tradition, they raised awareness about the benefits of orthodontic treatment, helping everyone "Smile with Confidence."

The Tiger Dance event, themed "Celebrate Tradition, Smile with Confidence," took place at Thekkar, Bantwal, on 5^th October 2024, at 10:00 PM. During the lively dance, smiles were spread as attendees enjoyed the performance, and the significance of orthodontic care was highlighted by Dr. Mithun and Dr. Ashith, who were also felicitated for their contributions to raising awareness about orthodontic treatments among the general public.

The Flagging Off Week-Long Events took place at AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences on 5^th October 2024, at 10:00 PM, in collaboration with the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Club. This week-long initiative aimed to promote orthodontic awareness and engage the community in various activities.

A vibrant flash mob was one of the highlights of the event, captivating attendees and drawing attention to the importance of orthodontic care. Participants showcased energetic dance performances, effectively blending entertainment with education. Throughout the week, a series of engaging activities, demonstrations, and discussions further emphasized the significance of orthodontic treatments, fostering a deeper understanding of oral health in the community.

The Flagging Off event was held at Manipal College of Dental Sciences on 5^th October 2024, at 11:00 AM, in collaboration with the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group. This significant event aimed to raise awareness about orthodontic care and its benefits to the community. Attendees included dental professionals, students, and members of the public who gathered to support this important initiative.

Engaging discussions fostered a deeper understanding of the importance of oral health, encouraging attendees to seek orthodontic care and promoting healthier smiles within the community.

The Quiz and Artistic Wire Bending Competition took place at Manipal College of Dental Sciences on 5^th October 2024, at 10:30 AM to 1.00 PM. This engaging event aimed to promote orthodontic knowledge and creativity among participants.

The quiz tested participants’ understanding of orthodontic concepts, practices, and advancements, fostering a fun yet educational atmosphere. Simultaneously, the Artistic Wire Bending Competition showcased participants’ creativity and skill in crafting intricate designs using orthodontic wires, demonstrating the artistic side of orthodontics.

Both competitions encouraged teamwork and critical thinking while raising awareness about the importance of orthodontic care, making it an exciting and informative experience for all involved.

The Artistic Wire Bending Competition was held at KVG Dental College on 5^th October 2024, at 10:30 AM, in collaboration with the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group (MOSG). This creative event showcased participants' skills in crafting intricate designs using orthodontic wires, highlighting the artistic aspects of orthodontics. Competitors demonstrated their creativity and precision, transforming simple materials into beautiful and functional wire creations. The collaboration with MOSG fostered a spirit of innovation and encouraged participants to think outside the box while raising awareness about the importance of orthodontic treatment. Attendees enjoyed watching the talented individuals at work, making it an engaging and inspiring experience for everyone involved.

The Dance Yatra took place at Thannir Bhavi Beach on 6^th October 2024, at 4:30 PM. The event featured a vibrant flash mob by Srinivas Dental College, a skit performed by AJ Institute of Dental Sciences, and a lively dance by AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences and Century Dental College. Singing and hosting were provided by Yenepoya Dental College, adding to the festive atmosphere. Additionally, an awareness talk was delivered by Prof. Dr. Nilan Shetty, Principal of AJIDS, and Prof. Dr. Sandeep Shetty, Head of the Orthodontic Department at YDS, emphasizing the importance of orthodontic care. This engaging event successfully combined entertainment with educational outreach, fostering community awareness about orthodontics.

The Orthodontic Awareness Camp took place in Belthangady on 7^th October 2024, at 10:30 AM, specifically for school children. The camp aimed to educate young students about the importance of orthodontic care and maintaining proper oral health through interactive presentations and engaging discussions. Additionally, dental professionals conducted screenings to identify orthodontic issues such as misaligned teeth and overcrowding. This hands-on approach provided parents with personalized recommendations regarding potential treatments and emphasized the significance of early intervention. The event successfully raised awareness about orthodontics, empowering children and their families to prioritize oral health and consider appropriate treatments when necessary.

After last year's success of Come Together 1.0, the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group (MOSG) invited attendees to Come Together 2.0, themed "Bridging the Gap Between Orthodontists, Oral Surgeons, and Psychiatrists." The MOSG and the Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India (AOMSI) Karnataka State Chapter organized the event.

Speakers included Dr. Akhil Shetty, Additional Professor in the Department of Orthodontics at AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, who discussed "Virtual Surgical Planning for Orthognathic Surgery." Dr. Anil Kakunje, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Yenepoya Medical College, Mangaluru, spoke on "Seeing the Unseen: Dental Surgery & Mental Health." Dr. Abhay Taranath Kamath, Consultant in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, presented on "Intricacies of Temporomandibular Joint Replacement."

This special initiative for Orthodontic Awareness Week opened up new avenues for collaboration with other specialties in the dental and medical fraternity. Over 200 delegates attended and supported this unique initiative by YDC, MOSG, and AOMSI Karnataka State Chapter. The event took place at Yenepoya Dental College on 7^th October 2024, starting at 9:00 AM.

The Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group (MOSG) received significant media coverage for most of the events organized during Orthodontic Awareness Week in collaboration with various dental colleges and private clinics. A newspaper article highlighted all the activities conducted throughout the week, showcasing the collective efforts to promote orthodontic care and education in the community.

The article featured insights from Dr. Chaitra, the co-convener, who provided commentary in the local language, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about orthodontic treatments and fostering collaboration among dental professionals. This media exposure helped amplify the campaign's message, reaching a broader audience and encouraging public engagement in oral health initiatives

The Quiz Competition was held at KVG Dental College on 7^th October 2024, at 11:00 AM. Participants tested their understanding of orthodontics through a variety of stimulating questions, promoting friendly competition and collaboration. The event aimed to enhance students' awareness of dental health and orthodontic practices, creating an engaging and fun atmosphere for all attendees.

The Workshop on Myths and Facts Surrounding Cosmetology was conducted at KVG Dental College on 8^th October 2024. This informative session aimed to debunk common misconceptions about cosmetic procedures while providing accurate information. Participants engaged in discussions and demonstrations, enhancing their understanding of various cosmetic treatments and their implications. Additionally, the workshop included a segment on orthodontic treatment awareness, highlighting its benefits and encouraging informed decision-making. This dual focus successfully promoted both cosmetology and orthodontic awareness among attendees, fostering a holistic understanding of dental and cosmetic care.

Inspiring discussions marked the "Mother Orthodontist Campaign" at Srinivas Institute of Dental Sciences, Mukka, Mangalore. The event featured a talk titled “The Role of Mothers in Early Orthodontic Care” by Prof. and Head of the Department, Dr. Praveena Shetty. He educated mothers about the significance of timely orthodontic care and preventive orthodontics, emphasizing their crucial role as the first point of contact for their children’s healthcare.

Mothers appreciated the insights shared during the session, expressing gratitude for learning new information that would help them provide timely care for their children. This initiative fostered awareness and encouraged proactive measures for children's oral health.

The MOSG Movie Night took place on 8^th October 2024, at Bharath Cinemas in Bharath Mall. The event aimed to support local filmmakers and promote the "Go Vocal for Local" initiative. Attendees gathered at 8:30 PM for an enjoyable evening featuring the Kannada film "Kaljiga."

Film actor Arjun Akpikad graced the event and appreciated the MOSG's initiative in spreading awareness about orthodontic treatment. The movie night celebrated local talent and fostered a sense of community spirit among participants. Everyone enjoyed the film, creating a lively atmosphere filled with camaraderie and entertainment. This successful event highlighted the importance of supporting local artists and showcased the MOSG's commitment to cultural initiatives.

The Theatre Ads Campaign took place from 5^th to 13^thOctober 2024 at Big Cinemas, PVR, and Cinepolis in Mangalore. This initiative featured video highlighting the importance of receiving orthodontic treatment from qualified professionals.

The ads aimed to raise awareness about various orthodontic procedures, showcasing how proper treatment can enhance smiles and overall dental health. By utilizing the reach of popular cinema venues, the campaign effectively educated audiences about the benefits of seeking orthodontic care and reinforced the message that orthodontists are essential for achieving optimal results. The initiative successfully engaged viewers, promoting a greater understanding of orthodontics within the community.

The Orthodontic Awareness Talk was held at KVG Dental College on 9^th October 2024. This informative session aimed to educate students and the community about the significance of orthodontic care. The talk covered various topics, including common orthodontic issues, the benefits of early intervention, and the latest advancements in orthodontic treatments.

Participants engaged in discussions and asked questions, gaining valuable insights into how orthodontics can improve oral health and enhance smiles. The event successfully fostered awareness and encouraged attendees to seek timely orthodontic care. By emphasizing the importance of professional guidance, the talk empowered individuals to make informed decisions about their dental health and treatment options.

The "Smile Yatra : A Public Awareness Program" took place on 9^th October 2024, at Deralakatte, starting at 9:00 AM. This impactful event featured a silent march where participants carried posters and placards emphasizing the importance of orthodontic treatment and raising awareness about dental health.

The march aimed to engage the local community in discussions about the benefits of orthodontic care, including improved oral hygiene, enhanced self-esteem, and overall health. Participants raised awareness about the significance of early intervention and seeking professional orthodontic advice. The event successfully fostered a sense of community involvement while promoting the message of healthy smiles and informed dental choices.

The Exhibition, Table Clinic, and Skit to Create Orthodontic Awareness was held at KVG Dental College on 10^th October 2024. This engaging event aimed to educate students and the community about various aspects of orthodontic care through interactive displays, informative presentations, and entertaining performances.

Participants explored various exhibits showcasing orthodontic techniques, treatment options, and the importance of oral health. The Table Clinic provided hands-on demonstrations, allowing attendees to gain a deeper understanding of orthodontic procedures. Additionally, a skit was performed to creatively illustrate common misconceptions about orthodontics, making the information relatable and memorable.

The event successfully raised awareness about the significance of orthodontic treatment and encouraged attendees to prioritize their dental health. Overall, it fostered a collaborative spirit among students, faculty, and the community, reinforcing the message of healthy smiles and informed choices.

The Animal Adoption Campaign took place on 12^th October 2024, at Pilikula Nisargadhama. This event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of animal adoption and the need for donations to support local shelters amidst rising costs.

A recent article in the Mangalore Today news network highlighted the increasing financial challenges faced by animal welfare organizations and emphasized the urgent need for community support. In response to this call, the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group (MOSG) took a proactive step by adopting a bird, a Macau, to promote the message of compassion and responsibility towards animals.

The campaign successfully engaged the community, encouraging more individuals to consider adopting pets and supporting local animal shelters. Through this initiative, MOSG demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility and the welfare of animals in need.

On October 13, the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group, in collaboration with the Mangalore Runners Club, organized a vibrant 3km marathon to raise awareness about orthodontics and support women's safety. Over 100 enthusiastic participants donned vibrant pink marathon shirts, symbolizing their commitment to women's rights and health. The event centered around the theme "Em(brace) Miles for Her Smiles," highlighting the dual importance of dental health and women's empowerment.

Dr. Sandeep Shetty, who emphasized the significance of orthodontics in enhancing smiles and overall confidence, and Dr. Siddhart Shetty, who reinforced the message of embracing and supporting women's empowerment and safety. ACP Traffic Sub division Geetha D Kulkarni presented on critical issues related to women's safety in society and the workplace, offering practical solutions to enhance awareness. This marathon not only celebrated fitness but also initiated meaningful dialogues about important social issues. The collaboration between the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group and the Mangalore Runners Club created a memorable event, highlighting the importance of dental health and empowering women in the community. Future initiatives are anticipated to continue uplifting and supporting local members.

On October 13, the Mangalore Orthodontic Study Group, in collaboration with the Colours of Mangalore, hosted a delightful painting competition titled "Embrace Kids." This event aimed to inspire creativity among young artists while celebrating the themes of "Smile" and "Dusshera." The competition attracted 20 talented young artists, each eager to showcase their creativity and interpretation of the themes. The vibrant atmosphere was filled with excitement as kids expressed their artistic visions on canvas.

Dr. Akhter Hussain delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of creativity in painting, emphasizing how art fosters imagination and emotional expression. Mrs. Sapna shared insights about the Colours of Mangalore group, highlighting its commitment to nurturing young talent in the arts and supporting students interested in painting. The creativity displayed by participants was remarkable, with each painting reflecting the unique perspectives of the young artists and incorporating elements of joy, culture, and festivity associated with smiles and Dusshera. The event not only showcased artistic talent but also fostered a sense of community among participants and their families, strengthening bonds through shared creativity and celebration.

Celebrity endorsement plays a crucial role in orthodontic awareness by increasing visibility, building trust, and shaping public perception of orthodontic care. Celebrities can reach large, diverse audiences, particularly younger demographics, and lend credibility to orthodontic treatments. Their endorsements help normalize dental care, make it more appealing, and influence trends, especially in cosmetic dentistry. Celebrities also play a key role in inspiring confidence and promoting early treatment, while their collaborations with brands can drive innovation and expand market reach. Ultimately, celebrity endorsements elevate the perceived value of orthodontic services and encourage more people to seek treatment.

Collaboration with the local Instagram channel Mangalore Meri Jaan through Reels played a pivotal role in significantly boosting orthodontic awareness, achieving over 34K views on the platform. By leveraging the channel's well-established local following and engaging, visually appealing content, we were able to reach a highly targeted audience within Mangalore, which proved crucial for spreading awareness about the importance and benefits of orthodontic care.

The use of Instagram Reels allowed us to create short, impactful videos that captured viewers' attention quickly. Through before-and-after treatment showcases, patient testimonials, and endorsements from local influencers, we delivered content that was both educational and visually appealing. These bite-sized videos made the topic of orthodontics accessible and engaging, which is key in a world where users are constantly consuming content in short, digestible formats.

Furthermore, this approach was highly cost-effective, providing a greater return on investment compared to traditional advertising. By tapping into an existing, engaged local audience and utilizing organic content through Reels, we avoided the high costs associated with more traditional marketing methods while still achieving impressive results.

In conclusion, the collaboration with Mangalore Meri Jaan through Instagram Reels proved to be a highly effective strategy for increasing orthodontic awareness. It successfully engaged a local audience, fostered trust within the community, and positioned orthodontic services as both desirable and accessible. Achieving over 34K views demonstrated the power of combining local influencers, authentic content, and targeted marketing in reaching more people and driving interest in orthodontic treatments.