February is National Dental Health Month in the Philippines, an annual celebration now on its 22nd year.
This nationwide observance aims to strengthen oral health awareness and encourage proper hygiene practices, especially among students.
For 2026, the campaign highlights “Ngiting 7020”—a public health goal encouraging Filipinos to retain at least 20 permanent, functional teeth by the age of 70.
Oral health experts emphasize that reaching this benchmark requires consistent care, preventive check-ups, and widespread education on good dental habits.
One of the private practitioners supporting this advocacy is Dr. Camille Ampong of Ampong Dental, who is known for treating celebrities.
Her clientele includes Mimiyuuuh, KaladKaren, Benedict Cua, Joy Barcoma, Donita Nose, Jade Tecson, Tita Krissy, Chad Kinis, and Inah Evans, among many others.
DR. CAMILLE AMPONG ON DENTAL HEALTH
Despite the popularity of dental aesthetics and the increasing visibility of dental procedures online, Dr. Ampong underlined that oral health is still not a priority for many Filipinos.
In an interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal), she pointed out several key concerns—one of the most common being that many people tend to delay their dental check-ups.
In her words, "Delaying dental check-ups until issues develop is a common mistake made by many Filipinos when it comes to dental care.”
Dr. Camille recognizes that economic realities often contribute to this behavior.
"The majority of Filipinos would choose to buy their necessities over visiting the clinic, so we can understand."
Another widespread issue, according to Dr. Ampong, is that many Filipinos tend to dismiss the early warning signs of dental problems—including those related to gum health.
She said, "Others believe that until pain gets really bad, sensitivity is frequently ignored."
Case in point, gum bleeding is often not deemed a cause for alarm.
She revealed: "As a dentist for many years, I’ve seen that several Filipinos believe that bleeding gums after brushing is natural, but it’s actually the first indication of gum disease."
Meanwhile, veneers are becoming increasingly popular, which has fueled the growing belief that they are the only way to achieve flawless, white teeth.
With social media shaping modern beauty standards, the dentist said more Filipinos are becoming convinced that the “perfect smile” seen online requires cosmetic procedures.
“Due to what they see on social media, most Filipinos believe that veneers are necessary to attain flawlessly white teeth.
"Showcasing perfect teeth has become popular on the internet, making people yearn for them.”
Dr. Ampong underlined that while aesthetic treatments have their place, people should rely on expert guidance rather than online trends:
“It’s critical that people obtain accurate information from dentists and professionals.”
This commitment to proper dental education is something she has long championed: "I have spent years promoting dental awareness and ensuring that individuals have access to accurate information.
"We provide FAQs on our website to help individuals learn for free. Because everyone has different dental demands, not every patient or internet user should follow trends."
ORAL HEALTH AWARENESS
Dr. Camille then urged Filipinos to prioritize their dental health and seek guidance from qualified professionals.
She stressed that gum health is just as crucial as achieving bright, white teeth.
"We always advise patients that it is better for us to assess their general oral health first. Gum health is just as important as having flawlessly white teeth.
"We also need to evaluate the general dental health of those who want veneers."
Dr. Ampong explained that cosmetic treatments should never be rushed.
A proper evaluation ensures harmony and balance.
"We should take into account that the teeth should be proportionate to the face’s general structure.
"It is about helping your face and smile work in harmony, guided by a patient-centered blend of dentistry and aesthetics.
"Because when balance is restored from within, confidence follows naturally.”
She also shared practical at-home oral hygiene reminders—simple habits that many people unintentionally neglect: "Many times, regular brushing for at least two minutes, flossing, and tongue cleaning are neglected.
"Many also put off regular check-ups or neglect to wear retainers after braces. Ignoring these small steps can lead to gum disease and tooth loss."
Her advice extended to daily eating and care routines: "Limit sugary snacks and beverages, especially in between meals, and brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
"When brushing is not an option, rinse your mouth with water after ingesting sweet food items, and have your teeth checked every six months."
FACIAL SYMMETRY
Beyond simply recommending veneers, Dr. Camille has been placing stronger emphasis on promoting facial symmetry through proper dental treatment—a philosophy that has increasingly resonated with her celebrity clients.
"What’s popular right now, or at least what my celebrity patients want, is our DentoFacial Contour Plus, which addresses facial asymmetry—a concern in dental care that I’ve been advocating for.
"It’s more common than most people realize."
These enhancements, she added, are especially valuable for public figures.
Dr. Camille explained: "These outcomes are important to celebrities since they are constantly in front of the camera, where their facial symmetry is always scrutinized.
"It is not only a dental remedy, it also improves the appearance of the entire face.
"For certain individuals, facial symmetry influences not only appearance but also comfort, confidence, and daily function."
Her DentoFacial Contour Plus program takes a fully comprehensive approach.
"DentoFacial Contour Plus provides a patient-centered approach that blends dentistry and cosmetic analysis to achieve balanced dental alignment and natural face harmony.
"Some celebrities have issues with their bite, jaw posture, and muscle function—not only their teeth. And because they’re on television, facial symmetry is especially important to them."
Beyond enhancing looks, the treatment offers significant health benefits.
Dr. Camille enumerated the benefits: "Improved facial balance and symmetry, a more even jawline and chin position, reduced jaw strain, headaches, or TMJ discomfort, relaxed facial muscles, and a smile that seems natural and proportionate to the face."
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