The future is excellent

Pranab Ghosh interviews Dr Anil Kohli, president, Dental Council of India.

Does India have enough good dentists?

Yes and no. There are plenty of dentists in urban areas, and not many in the rural areas. The reason is that professionals do not want to go to rural areas. I request the government to appoint dental surgeons in primary health centres in rural areas and involve the National Rural Health Mission in promoting oral health.

Does our oral healthcare quality match world standards?

No, because there is no awareness at the ground level about dental diseases and the importance of oral hygiene. It is very important to tell school children about dental diseases so that problems can be detected at an early age. There is a need for awareness programmes organised by dental associations and the media — both print and electronic.

How important is the role of a dentist in our medical set-up?

Very important. With changing lifestyles, many diseases, like cardiac problems or diabetes, are directly or indirectly related to oral conditions. Eating habits have changed, and the fast food culture is adding to dental problems.

What is the single biggest challenge for the profession?

Generating employment for young graduates is the most important challenge.

How has treatment changed over the years?

Newer techniques have come into existence, such as cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, laser dentistry, etc. The need and importance of oral care has increased
Manifold.

What is the future of dentistry as a profession in the country?

The future is excellent. If you are sincere and honest with the profession, you can make a good living out of it, but you will have to work hard.

Author: HT Horizons

Date: 30th Dec., 2009

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