DT Pakistan No. 1, 2022

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PUBLISHED IN PAKISTAN

pk.dental-tribune.com

PMC allows filling vacant
medical, dental seats for
session 2021-22

NEWS

Page 2

JAN-FEB 2022 - Issue No. 01 Vol.9

An exclusive
interview with
Dr Anwar T Merchant

INTERVIEW

Study links social
isolation to having
fewer teeth

NEWS

Page 4

Page 12

Bill Gates first-ever
visit to Pakistan, lauds
COVID-19 control

DT Pakistan Report

SLAMABAD - Bill Gates, the
co-founder of Microsoft and a
renowned philanthropist, recently
visited Pakistan for the first time and
met with Prime Minister Imran Khan.
He was informed of efforts to combat
the coronavirus pandemic and
eradicate poliovirus from the country.
Gates attended a National
Command and Operation Centre
(NCOC) session and met Planning
Minister and NCOC Chief Asad
Umar.

Gates was briefed on the NCOC's
performance, the coronavirus
condition in the country, and
systematic efforts to manage it with
non-pharmaceutical interventions,
according to a statement from the
NCOC.
The statement added that he was
briefed about genome sequencing and
coronavirus variants detected in
Pakistan.
"Gates appreciated Pakistan's
success against COVID-19 despite
resource constraints and introducing
excellent initiatives and measures for

Photo:
DT Pakistan

public health safety," according to
the statement.
Gates also talked about the
pandemic and efforts to tackle it
through vaccination. He took an
interest in various initiatives by the
NCOC, particularly smart lockdown
and micro-smart lockdown strategy
enforcement measures and Pakistan's
vaccine administration regime. Umar

later tweeted about hosting Gates at
the NCOC.
The Microsoft founder was
appreciative of the COVID response
effort in Pakistan, Umar concluded
his post. The philanthropist also
visited the anti-polio programme
where Programme Chief Shehzad
Baig briefed him about polio
prevention measures in the country.

Short term immunity drops COVID-19 cases in Pakistan

DT Pakistan Report

SLAMABAD - Prof Dr Javed Akram, a
prominent public health expert and member
of the Scientific Task Force on COVID-19,
recently stated that the sudden decrease in
coronavirus cases in the country was caused by
factors such as short-term immunity.
While speaking to the media, Dr Javed Akram,
Vice-Chancellor, University of Health Sciences,
Pakistan's national positivity ratio, declined. He
said that when a large population is exposed to
a pandemic, human bodies try to build short-term
antibodies against the disease, also known as subclinical disease or asymptomatic disease. It means
that people may become infected but exhibit few
or no symptoms. It's also known as Exposure
Induced Immunity, and it causes disease or cases
to drop suddenly in society, he explained.
According to Dr Javed Akram, other factors
behind the decline in new infections included the
ban on large gatherings and the implementation
of the COVID-19 protocols.

While emphasising
the need for booster
shots, Dr Akram said
people should
remember that the
disease has been
reduced but not
eradicated. They
should strictly follow
standard operating
procedures because
the virus can
resurface.
According to Dr
Akram, 'Stealth
Omicron (BA.2)' has
been reported in Norway
and Sweden.
"We don't know how
infectious and transmissible
the new sub-variant is, but
keep in mind that the world
is a global village, and

Photo:
DT Pakistan

every variant has spread worldwide. There is a
strong possibility that new variants will emerge
in the future," he said.
In Pakistan, however, the population seems to
have developed a
short-term immunity to COVID-19 as daily cases
began to fall in the first week of February.

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NEWS

2 DENTAL TRIBUNE Pakistan Edition JAN-FEB 2022

PMC allows filling vacant medical,
dental seats for session 2021-22

I

DT Pakistan Report

SLAMABAD - For the first
time in Pakistan,
around 5873 public
and private medical
and dental colleges
seats could not be
filled this year.
The Pakistan Medical
Commission (PMC) has
established a unique strategy to
fill the vacant seats for the 202122 session in light of this situation.
Colleges that did not upload their
names of admitted students by
February 18 were allowed to do so
under the policy. The PMC will
give vacant seats to suitable
students who have not been admitted
after that date. To guarantee that all
admissions are completed by
February 28, one-time placements
will be granted only based on merit.
According to a document
available to the local media, 1,566
seats are vacant in Sindh, 1,331 in
Punjab, 72 in Balochistan, 58 in
Islamabad and 51 in Azad Jammu
and Kashmir.
Last year, the PMC informed public
and private medical and dental

Editor Clinical Research
Dr. Inayatullah Padhiar
Editors Research & Public Health
Prof. Dr. Ayyaz Ali Khan
Editor - Online
Haseeb Uddin
Designing & Layout
Sheikh M. Sadiq Ali
Dental Tribune Pakistan
3rd floor, Mahmood Centre, BC-11,
Block-9, Clifton, Karachi, Pakistan.
Tel.: +92 21 35378440-2
Fax: +92 21 35836940
www.dental-tribune.com.pk
info@dental-tribune.com.pk

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DT Pakistan

institutions about the admission
process, timings, and procedures for
the conduct of admissions for the
session 2021-22 through its Medical
and Dental Undergraduate
Education (Admission, Curriculum,
and Conduct) Regulations 2021.

According to the laws, both
private and public colleges must
adhere to the statutory admissions
timetables and submit the list of
admitted students on the PMC portal
according to the published and
declared schedule.

WHO praises Pakistan on administering
200 million COVID vaccines
DT Pakistan Report

I

Publisher and CEO
Syed Hashim A. Hasan
hashim@dental-tribune.com.pk

SLAMABAD - Pakistan was recently
commended by the World Health
Organization (WHO) for administering
200 million COVID-19 vaccine doses in its
fight against the pandemic.
The WHO Pakistan chapter just posted on
its official Twitter account, "Heartiest
Congratulations to Pakistan."
This accomplishment is a result of the
government's unwavering commitment to
vaccination administration, according to the
statement.
The letter of congratulations arrived on the
same day that the National Command and
Operation Centre (NCOC) declared that, due
to improved Covid-19 infection rates,
limitations in cities with less than 10 per cent
positivity would be eased.
The country "achieved a critical COVID
vaccination milestone as the total vaccine
doses delivered have topped 200 million,"
NCOC said in a statement.

Photo:
DT Pakistan

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4 DENTAL TRIBUNE Pakistan Edition JAN-FEB 2022
Dental Tribune: Briefly tells us about your
background in dentistry?
Dr Anwar: Shiraz (formerly Pahlavi) University in
Iran, where I studied dentistry, had an excellent
library. I had to find an original research paper for
a class at some point. That was the first time I was
introduced to Index Medicus. This set of volumes
was published yearly and contained citations of all
the medical literature published in the prior year by
topic and author. After going through several heavy
volumes (this was the pre-computer era), I found
the citation I was searching for and wrote it down
on paper. Next, I went through rows of archived
journals to find the article and took it to the photocopy
machine (yes, we had those). After that, I knew
where to find new information.
I worked as a general dentist in Karachi many years
later, and
I got to know

approach. The first step is developing a culture where
research findings are analyzed, interpreted, and used
to guide clinical and policy decisions. The second
step is developing and nurturing a workforce with
the required expertise. Finally, it provides the
workforce with a viable career path based on merit.
The last point is critical.
The National Institutes of Health in the United
States is a leading example. However, research can
flourish on a much smaller scale if the endeavour is
based on the same principles. For example, Thailand
has developed a robust dental research program at
a much lower cost than the US.
Are there opportunities for fresh graduates abroad
in dental research?
The undergraduate dental curriculum provides
graduates with an excellent foundation in human

INTERVIEW
health and the basic sciences.
The best way for dental graduates to enter the
research field is to get additional training in specific
areas such as epidemiology, health policy,
biostatistics, behavioural health, molecular biology,
or any of the basic sciences.
Why do you think Pakistani dental researchers are
not at par globally?
The research infrastructure in Pakistan is in its
infancy. Apart from at elite institutions, there are
few opportunities for dental research.
Do you think there's a lack of a research curriculum
at the undergrad level, your comment?
At a minimum, the undergraduate dental curriculum
should prepare graduates to critically analyze and
interpret published research, thus preparing them for

A system that rewards merit
attracts and retains the best minds;

Dr Anwar T Merchant
Stanford - Elsevier featured Dr Anwar T. Merchant among the top scientists based on his career-long data

a group
of prominent
dentists in the city through dental society meetings.
We met approximately once a month to discuss
compelling cases or published research over dinner.
People from that group started conducting their
research and even established the Journal of the
Pakistan Dental Association Karachi, in which I
published my first paper. I wrote that by hand, had
it typed out at a typing institute near my clinic, and
hand-delivered it to the editor's office.
My interest in public health grew from volunteering
with the Aga Khan Health Board. That institution
conducted medical examinations for school-aged
children and noticed that many had terrible teeth.
For several years, I screened the children for oral
health, established mobile dental clinics to do fillings,
and started a fluoride gel application program to

A system that rewards merit
attracts and retains the best
minds and becomes the engine
that drives innovation
prevent caries. That was when I felt the need to be
better trained in public health and left for a year to
do a Master's in Public Health at Harvard. While
working at Aga Khan University, I had the
opportunity to conduct research and developed an
interest in epidemiology.
What are the biggest challenges that the field of
research is facing in Pakistan?
Modern medical and dental research is a broadbased endeavour integrating and synthesizing
information from the laboratory, clinical practice,
and populations. The biggest challenge in conducting
research is developing and sustaining a critical mass
of expertise in these diverse content areas. This is
a long-term commitment requiring a three-pronged

by Dr Hiba Shams

r Anwar T Merchant, who started his
career as a Senior Instructor at the
Department of Community Health
Sciences at Aga Khan University, Karachi, is
now a Professor at the University of South
Carolina at Columbia, South Carolina.
Dr Merchant is a Doctor of Dental Medicine
(DMD) from Shiraz University, Iran. In 1989,
he completed his Masters of Public Health
(MPH) from Harvard School of Public Health,
USA. He went on to get a Doctor of Science
(ScD) in Nutritional and Epidemiology from
the same institute. Here, he also worked as a
Research Fellow and Research Associate.
He then worked as an Assistant Professor at
McMaster University, Canada. He routinely
reviews manuscripts and grant applications for
leading national and international journals and
funding agencies, including for the Journal of
the American Dental Association, Journal of
Dental Research, Journal of the Dental
Association of Thailand, and Journal of Pakistan
Dental Association, where he also serves as an
International Advisory Board member.
He is a Fellow of the American College of
Epidemiology and has been a member of several
professional bodies, including the American
Diabetes Association, International Association
for Dental Research, and Society for
Epidemiologic Research.
He has successfully conducted numerous clinical
researches in both medical and dental areas. He
has also been frequently invited as a guest
speaker and examiner in different conferences
and universities worldwide.

lifelong learning and staying up to date with new
knowledge.

Fluoride varnish application on
newly erupted primary teeth
prevents childhood caries but is
underutilized. By the time a child
sees a dentist, it is often too late
because caries has developed
What are the significant challenges facing the
dental community today?
The high cost of dental care is possibly the most
significant challenge worldwide. Advances in
dentistry are impressive but remain out of reach for
most people. More research is needed to prevent
oral disease and provide dental care to more people,
particularly to the less wealthy segments of society.
Even known preventive care is not universally
available. For example, fluoride varnish application
on newly erupted primary teeth prevents childhood
caries. It is well-established, inexpensive, and takes
a couple of minutes at a pediatric or primary care clinic.
What are the recent advancements in dental
research?
There have been impressive advances in technology,
materials, understanding of basic mechanisms of
oral disease, and the connection between oral and
systemic health.
Any last messages for young dental students?
A couple of decades ago, the problem was too little
information, and today it is too much information.
Learn to distinguish between good research and that
which is questionable. Do not depend upon Facebook,
WhatsApp, and other social media because they are
often the source of fake news.

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NEWS

6 DENTAL TRIBUNE Pakistan Edition JAN-FEB 2022

LIAQUAT COLLEGE OF MEDICINE & DENTISTRY

LCMD holds Grand Alumni
Convention 2022

ARACHI - The Liaquat College of
Medicine & Dentistry (LCMD) recently
held its first-ever Grand Alumni
Convention at Al-Safaa Banquet Hall, Karachi.
The institute has over 890 BDS Alumni. Many
alumni who are abroad were virtually invited to
attend the convention. The reunion aimed at
creating a special bond between the students
who have passed out and have established
themselves already in the competitive world.
Mr Amir Waliuddin Chishti, Chairman Board
of Trustees of LCMD, Prof. Dr Navid Rashid
Qureshi, Principal LCMD, and Dr Syed Ali
Farhan Razi, Vice Chairman LCMD, graced the
event with their presence.
Dr Tauseef Ahmed, President of the Alumni
Association, organised the event
along with the other organising
committee members, including Dr
Asma Shahid, Dr Shumaila Aziz, Dr
Faizan Feroz, Dr Talha Bin Saeed,
Dr Faiza Afzal, Dr Nousheen Zehra,
Dr Javaria Baig, Dr Shariq, Mr
Shahbaz Khan, Mr Moiz Majid and
other volunteers.

Dr Samiha started the event with the holy
verses of the Qur'an and Prof. Dr Uzma Zareef
with the opening speech. Dr Iqra Ali, Dr Abeer
Saleem, and Dr Saad Ahmed hosted the event.
In the Alumni Appreciation Ceremony and
Awards, all the eighteen batches (B.D.S) alumni
were awarded appreciation awards for their
contribution to the institute and the outside world.
Dr Sania Ahmed, Dr Saba, Dr Kanwal Naz

Photos:
DT Pakistan

and Dr Zohaib showcased brilliant mimicry
performances by re-enacting their Professors
and reviving the alumni's memories.
Dr Ayesha, Dr Maria, Dr Mathew and Dr Hijab
Farid chanted the whole hall with their beautiful
voices and outstanding performances. Moreover,
to extend the fun across the audience Dr Saad
and his team played JEETO LCMD, where gift
hampers and exciting prizes were
distributed against various games and
challenges completed by the audience.
Dr Navid Rashid Qureshi, Mr
Amir Waliuddin Chishti and Dr Syed
Ali Farhan Razi privileged the pioneer
batches with Alumni Appreciation
Awards. Prof. Dr Naheed Najmi, Vice
Principal LCMD, gave a special

closing ceremony note. The event ended with a
musical concert performance by the JamBroz
band.
A trade exhibition for all the Alumni was also
placed by consistent support of the Dental Health
News, High Q Pharma, Medicore Technologies,
Pakland International, LasoDent Academy, Swiss
Impant Future D Pakistan, Searle Pharma, Skin
Careproducts and Mehwish S Calligraphy. -PR

IADSR awards One-year
Diploma in Periodontology
& Implantology

AHORE - Institute of Advanced Dental
Sciences and Research (IADSR) recently held
the final assessment and award ceremony for
the participants registered as the first batch of Oneyear Professional Diploma in Periodontology &
Implantology.

Photos:
DT Pakistan

Dr Muhammad Haseeb, Course Director (PerioImplant Masterclass) & Dr Myra Ahmed, Course
Director (Perio-Implant Masterclass), evaluated the
assessment. Every participant presented the individual
case on the procedures they performed by utilizing
the knowledge and skills they were taught during the
course.
In the end, a diploma awarding ceremony was
organized. Successful participants were awarded the
diploma.
Every participant gave positive feedback about the
course, highlighted the techniques they learned during
it and appreciated the administration's efforts.
Participants emphasized that such initiatives should
be encouraged as they provide you with skills
necessary for efficient practice. -PR

LCMD makes easy CPD designing, wax-up

ARACHI - Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry (LCMD) recently arranged a two-day
hands-on workshop on "Cast partial denture designing and wax up".
In collaboration with the Department of Prosthodontics, Prof. Dr Uzma Zareef, Chairperson
Continuing Dental Education Committee, LCMD, organised the session.
Dr Irum Munir Raja was the facilitator and keynote speaker whereas, Dr Saim Siddiqui and Dr Anas
Kamran were the co-facilitators.
The cast partial denture designing demonstration followed Dr Irum's lecture on both days. The participants
performed cast partial denture designing on the ideal model and adapted wax patterns on their design
using different casting waxes. They were supervised by cofacilitators Dr Saim Siddiqui and Dr Anas
Kamran.
The workshop aimed to achieve confidence
in dentists to design cast partial dentures
according to different Kennedy's classification and identify any errors in the fabricated
prosthesis.
At the end of the workshop, Prof. Dr Navid Rashid Qureshi, Principal College of Dentistry,
LCMD, distributed shields and certificates to the facilitators and participants. -PR

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NEWS

8 DENTAL TRIBUNE Pakistan Edition JAN-FEB 2022

Diploma in Advanced General Dentistry

L

AHORE - Institute
of Advanced Dental
Sciences and
Research (IADSR) recently
held the final assessment
of participants registered in
the 13th Professional
Diploma in Advanced
General Dentistry
(PDAGD).

procedures they performed
by utilizing the knowledge
and skills taught to them
during the course.
Different cases covering
procedures such as
extraction, root canals,
removal of the periodontal
flap, etc., were presented.
Dr Sumair assessed the

presentation was an
important element to get the
diploma, a diploma
awarding ceremony was
organized by the end of an
evaluation.
Successful participants
were awarded the diploma.
Every participant gave
positive feedback about the
Photo:
DT Pakistan

Dr Sumair Farooq
evaluated the assessment.
Every participant presented
the individual case on the

K

participants and highlighted
the possible improvements
they could have made to
improve the result. As case

course, highlighted the
techniques they learned
during it and appreciated the
administration's efforts. -PR

FJDC conducts workshop
on lasers in periodontology

ARACHI - Fatima Jinnah Dental
College (FJDC) recently held an
extensive workshop on the 'Use of
Lasers in Periodontology'.

A live demonstration of laser surgery
followed the lecture, which was relayed on
the screen in the lecture hall and seen live
by all the participants. All appreciated the

Photos:
DT Pakistan

Dr Ashar Jamelle, Associate Professor
and Head of Periodontics Department,
FJDC, led the workshop. Dr Tasleem
Hosein, Principal FJDC, Prof. Dr Saqib
Rashid, Head of Operative Dentistry
Department, FJDC, Dr Babar Ashraf, VicePrincipal and Head of Orthodontics
Department, FJDC, senior faculty and house
officers of FJDC attended the lecture.
The workshop commenced with a brief
talk by Mr. Fahim of GSK on the uses and
efficacy of Paradontax and Sensodyne
toothpaste. Dr Ashar's lecture discussed the
physics of lasers, their uses, types and utility
planning. Different periodontology cases
done under laser at FJDC were shown,
including frenectomy, crown lengthening,
gingivectomies, depigmentation, etc.

live demonstration.
The hands-on component of the workshop
required the house officers to perform soft
tissue procedures on the goat head with the
laser. All the attendees appreciated the
workshop.
After its success, the next hands-on
workshop will be conducted on 9th Feb
2022. -PR

COVID-19 Vaccination Center
set up at FJDC

K

ARACHI - Fatima Jinnah
Dental College (FJDC)
recently held the facility of
COVID-19 vaccination and booster
doses at its campus.
Azam Town General Hospital, an
FJDC & Hospital Trust project, has
arranged the facility to administer
COVID-19 vaccines and booster
doses at FJDC's hospital.
The trained and competent staff have
been performing the vaccination, Dr. Inayat Ullah Padihar (S.I)
whereas the District Head Office getting a booster shot at ATGH
(DHO) Vaccination Team supervised the overall activity to
complete the process safely. Moreover, all the queries and
concerns of people regarding COVID-19 would be addressed
at the vaccination centre.
FJDC has been encouraging people to get vaccinated and play
as responsible citizens amid the pandemic. They have given a
solution to those who have been waiting for their COVID-19
vaccination and booster doses and people who are afraid of
crowded vaccination centres far away from their place. -PR

Dr Sajjad Mustafa becomes
President PMA Gujranwala

G

UJRANWALA - Dr Sajid Mustafa,
a senior dental surgeon, recently
won Pakistan Medical Association
(PMA) elections and took the presidency
of PMA Gujranwala.
The dentists of Gujranwala have been seen
uplifting the profession and the whole doctors' community by
taking up leadership roles.
Dr Sajjad Mustafa won PMA Elections with a heavy margin
and became President PMA Gujranwala for the second time.
On this occasion, the President and Cabinet of PDA Gujranwala
congratulated him and his cabinet. They looked forward to
working together on future projects for the professional
uplift of doctors and the general public's well-being more
efficiently. -PR

FJDC CEO conveys views on
International Day of Education

K

ARACHI - Dr Hussain Askary, Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) and Head
of Community Dentistry
Department, FJDC, addressed at the
International Day of Education and
emphasised access to quality education.
He said, "A range of factors - including economic circumstances,
low-quality teaching, geographic location, gender, and disability
- prevent millions of Pakistani children from learning.
International Day of Education, observed globally, is an
opportunity to enlighten students and the community about
what education looks like for children worldwide. We must
find ways to advocate for and promote the importance of
improving access to quality education. As educators, we know
that primary education empowers our students, helps them
achieve their goals, and sets them up for a lifetime of success.
Today is a call for action. Together we can take concrete
steps towards supporting teachers and unlock the potential in
every person to contribute to collective well-being." -PR

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NEWS

10 DENTAL TRIBUNE Pakistan Edition JAN-FEB 2022

LCMD spreads awareness on
Craniosynostosis and Distraction Osteogenesis

ARACHI - The Department
of Oral and Maxillofacial
Surgery, Liaquat College of
Medicine and Dentistry (LCMD)
recently organised a one-day seminar
associated with the Department of
Plastic Surgery on 'Craniosynostosis
and Distraction Osteogenesis'. Jinnah
Sindh Medical University and Qamar
Dental Hospital also collaborated for
the seminar.
Prof. Dr Ashraf Ganatra, a renowned
plastic surgeon, took the initiative to
organise the seminar on this topic. Dr
Asra Hashmi from the Department of
Plastic Surgery, Loma Linda
University School of Medicine,
California, was invited as a guest
speaker.
Prof. Dr Tahera Ayub, Department
of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery,
LCMD, supervised and organised the
whole event along with the two
residents, Dr Mahnoor Zahid and Dr
Amna Afridi.
The seminar was attended by almost
154+ representatives from several
colleges, cities, faculty members,

undergraduates,
postgraduates and
house officers. They
were from different
fields of education
and training, like,
Orthodontics, ENT,

General Surgery,
P l a s t i c S u rg e r y,
Cosmetic Surgery and
Craniofacial Surgery,
etc.
The seminar's
purpose was to

BDC arranges ART workshop
for dental students

ARACHI - The
Department of
Community
Dentistry, Baqai Dental
College, Baqai Medical
University (BMU) recently
organised an Atraumatic
Restorative Treatment (ART)
workshop for second-year
BDS students.
Prof. Dr Asghar Ali Shigri,
Head of Community
Dentistry Department, BMU,
Photos: DT Pakistan
Dr Raza Abbas Abidi, Dr
Samreen Shafqat and Dr Mahwish Bano, supervised the workshop.
Dr Asghar gave an
introductory lecture on ART,
clearly explained its procedure
and steps, and gave a brief intro
on the instruments and the
materials.
The department had arranged
all the necessary instruments
and materials, which were state
of the art, for the students to
understand the procedure
c o m p e t e n t l y. A f t e r t h e
demonstration was over, the students divided into three groups were allotted a phantom head
station. They then performed the ART on a prepared tooth on the phantom heads. -PR

provide the audience with new and
updated knowledge on a crucial topic.
Dr Asra Hashmi discussed the topic
in detail. She briefed about
Craniosynostosis, a condition of
premature cranial suture fusion that
can significantly affect development
& growth, and evolving surgical
treatments that include distraction
osteogenesis (DO). Moreover, Dr
Ashraf Gnatra, the founder member
of the Pakistan Association of Plastic
Surgeons and the Pakistan Cleft Palate
& Craniofacial Association, also
shared his views and highlighted the
issues and lack of awareness among
the society related to this topic.
He also emphasised the importance
of a multidisciplinary approach in
treating and prognosis for patients
suffering from this congenital
deformity. According to him, every
child and their families have equal
rights to live a normal and healthy
social life without having any
deformity, ultimately impacting their
self-confidence and morals to deal
with life's daily challenges. -PR

BDC gives an educative trip
to Rangers Public School

ARACHI - The Department of Community
Dentistry, Baqai Dental College, Baqai
Medical University, recently devised an
educational field session of second-year BDS students
to Rangers Public School & College Toll Plaza
Karachi.
Prof. Dr Asghar Ali Shigri and his faculty members,
Dr Raza Abbas, Dr Samreen Mazher, and Dr Mahwish
Bano, directed this field trip.

Photo: DT Pakistan

Thirty-five students volunteered for this visit, divided
into seven groups. Each group was oriented to at least
two classes to communicate and interact with the
maximum number of students.
Each group reached its destined class and introduced
themselves and their purpose. Children were guided
adequately about oral hygiene and its significance
and were told and directed by demonstrating brushing
techniques on a teeth model for better understanding.
They also emphasised them to refrain from tobacco,
alcohol and smoking. -PR

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NEWS

JAN-FEB 2022 Pakistan Edition DENTAL TRIBUNE 11

Study finds significant gaps in evaluations
of simulation-based training in healthcare
research programme," she
added.
Dr Hofmann further
AMBRIDGE, UK - A recent study
explained that the evaluations
examined the effectiveness of simulationdid not always precisely
based learning in medical education in
define what learning
Dr Riikka Hofmann.
enhancing healthcare professionals' non-technical
outcomes they
skills. The data suggest that commonly used
expected to see, and (Image: Riikka Hofmann)
simulation-based learning interventions are often
even if the studies were technically well designed,
inadequately evaluated before their use
it was often unclear what they were
and do not assess how effectively
trying to measure.
simulations support key competencies
Additionally, the findings
mandated in medical and healthcare
revealed that very little attention
curricula and in policy. In light of the
was paid to whether new simulationfindings, the researchers urge healthcare
based learning tools trained
policymakers to improve the evaluative
professionals to use evidence in their
framework in order to help students
reasoning, and none of the research
develop much-needed competencies
examined the capacity of
such as evidence-based decisionsimulation-based training to support
making and sensitivity towards issues
the enhancement of equality and
pertaining to equality and diversity.
diversity in the workplace.
Non-technical skills, including
However, Dr Hofmann noted that
communication, decision-making and
healthcare professionals are not to
teamwork, are highly-valued in
blame for the fact that some
Simulation-based training helps dental students develop and practise soft
healthcare and are usually developed
important learning outcomes were
skills
and
improve
their
professional
practice
and
thus
increases
their
by employing educational tools and
overlooked in the evaluations.
employability.
(Image:
FOTOGRIN/Shutterstock)
methods that simulate real-life
Rather, she pointed to gaps in the
professional practice. This can include
research that tests simulations,
role-playing to prepare students for dealing with well as the assessment instruments used. stating that there is a need to develop a stronger
frightened or aggressive patients or using Inconsistencies in evaluations of simulation- conceptual model that clearly defines the nontechnology-based and mixed reality simulations based training
technical skills that simulation-based learning is
The findings revealed major inconsistencies in planned to help practise.
to test students' behaviour in high-pressure
outcome measures as well as significant gaps in Importance of soft skills in dentistry
situations.
"Soft skills, like interprofessional communication
"My research investigates how we can help how these studies measure the potential of
healthcare professionals develop and implement simulation-based tools to develop practitioners' and effective teamwork, are important for avoiding
medical errors and improving patient safety; they
new practices. We know that traditional non-technical competencies.
Discussing the findings, Dr Hofmann told DTI: are also important more broadly for developing
professional development can be helpful for
individual learning, but it often does not translate "Two things particularly surprised us about our effective and inclusive workplace practices which
into change in clinical practice," co-author Dr findings. Firstly, in terms of the outcome measures, make good use of staffing resources while looking
Riikka Hofmann, an associate professor in the nearly every study we analysed used a different after staff well-being and supporting innovation."
According to Dr Hofmann, simulations provide
Faculty of Education at the University of outcome measure, thus reducing comparability.
Cambridge, told Dental Tribune International Most studies developed their own outcome a great opportunity to practise communication and
measures instead of using validated instruments, teamwork in a safe way without causing a risk to
(DTI).
"Externally facilitated workplace development and even when studies used validated instruments, patients. However, she noted that evidence about
interventions can help make change happen, but they each used a different instrument." what kind of simulations best support the
"Secondly, we found a significant gap in the development and application of these skills is
they are highly resource-intensive and hence not
a scalable model across whole health systems. research: whereas healthcare education curricula lacking at the moment.
"The ability to effectively communicate with
This is where simulations come in. Simulations and policies emphasise the importance of evidencefacilitate professional learning in a way that not based reasoning and inclusive healthcare practice, highly diverse patients is key in dentistry from a
only transfers knowledge but also simulates these two outcomes were absent from the research public health perspective, as is a greater integration
of dental health services with the wider healthcare
authentic workplace practices, giving participants
Soft
skills,
like
interprofessional
services, which in turn requires effective
the opportunity to practise new skills without the
communication
and
effective
interprofessional communication and collaboration,
complexity and risks of real-world settings.
teamwork, are important for
often across institutional boundaries, languages
Technology further enhances simulations, making
and traditions," she concluded.
them even more like the real world," she added.
avoiding medical errors and
The study, titled "Models and measures of
Even though novel simulation-based methods are
improving patient safety
learning outcomes for non-technical skills in
continually being developed and are typically
~Dr Riikka Hofmann
simulation-based medical education: Findings from
evaluated through academic trials, Dr Hofmann
and her team noticed that there have been concerns on simulation-based learning. Therefore, we know an integrated scoping review of research and
regarding the thoroughness of these trials in little about the capacity of simulation-based content analysis of curricular learning objectives",
learning to have an impact on these important was published in the December 2021 issue of
assessing their potential.
Seeking to investigate the issue, the researchers outcomes. We wish to rectify this gap in our Studies in Educational Evaluation.

C

By Iveta Ramonaite
Dental Tribune International

analysed some of the most recent evaluations,
giving higher importance to papers published
between 2018 and 2020. The analysis focused on
three broad non-technical skill areas, namely
interprofessional teamwork, communication and
decision-making. The researchers selected a total
of 72 assessments of simulation-based tools that
targeted these skills and examined the learning
outcomes the research was trying to measure as

[12] => DTI-PDF 22.FH10

12 DENTAL TRIBUNE Pakistan Edition JAN-FEB 2022

Study links social
isolation to having fewer
teeth in older adults

NEWS

suggested that certain programmes
can foster intergenerational support
within families and improve older
NEW YORK, US/
adults' peer and social connections
SHANGHAI, China within their local communities.
Ample evidence shows that
Additionally, Dr Wu commented
social isolation and loneliness can
that the findings from the study could
affect overall health and well-being.
help clinicians have a better
I n a n e w s t u d y,
understanding of the
researchers sought to
significance of social
examine whether these
isolation and loneliness on
experiences could also
oral health.
Social isolation and
be detrimental to oral
COVID-19
health. They found that
Social contact has decreased
older adults who are
dramatically over the past two
socially isolated are more
years. Social distancing has
likely to have missing
become the norm, and
teeth and to lose their
lockdowns are a new reality.
teeth more quickly over
As the COVID-19 pandemic
time compared with
hit countries around the
those who have more
globe, many people had no
social interaction.
other choice but to isolate
According to the World
themselves at home in order
Health Organization,
to avoid becoming infected
social isolation and
with SARS-CoV-2.
loneliness are widespread
Talking about how the
and could have a serious
impact on older people's A recent study found that higher levels of social isolation are associated with having fewer natural pandemic disrupted access to
oral health services, Dr Wu
physical and mental
teeth in older adults in China. (Image: SUKJAI PHOTO/Shutterstock)
told DTI: "Early in the
health, quality of life and
longevity. Mounting evidence suggests relationships or infrequent social researchers found that the participants pandemic, most dental clinics were
that social isolation and loneliness are contact with others, loneliness is a who were socially isolated had an closed by shelter-at-home orders, and
linked to depression, comorbidities, feeling created by a lack of social average of 2.1 fewer natural teeth and even when clinics reopened, fear of
a rate of losing their teeth 1.4 times COVID-19 led many people to delay
cognitive impairment, dementia and connection.
premature mortality in older adults.
Senior author Dr Bei Wu, dean's higher compared with those who had both preventive cleanings and
However, only a limited number of professor in global health at NYU more social contact, thus confirming examinations as well as elective
studies have examined the impact of Meyers, explained that, although the link between social isolation and procedures."
According to Dr Wu, social isolation
social isolation and loneliness on oral social isolation and loneliness often tooth loss. Qi told DTI that the
health, and this was the motivation go hand in hand, it is possible to live evidence for the effect of social during lockdowns is likely to lead to
for the present research.
alone and be socially isolated but not isolation on oral health was robust stress, anxiety, depression and other
"The need to connect socially with feel lonely. Likewise, somebody may despite controlling for factors such psychological disorders. She also
others is as basic as our need for food, be surrounded by people but feel as socio-demographic variables, believes that socially isolated older
smoking, drinking, oral hygiene and adults are more likely to binge drink
water and shelter," first author Xiang lonely.
health status.
and smoke and are less engaged in
Qi, a PhD candidate at New York Social isolation and oral health
In China, older adults aged 65 to 74
However, to the researchers' s o c i a l a n d h e a l t h - p r o m o t i n g
University's Rory Meyers College of
Nursing (NYU Meyers), told Dental have an average of fewer than 23 teeth surprise, loneliness was neither behaviours such as physical activity.
This could have a negative impact
Tribune International (DTI). and 4.5% are edentulous. Periodontal associated with the number of teeth
"Approximately 24% of community- disease, smoking, lack of access to nor the rate of tooth loss in the study. on their overall functioning and oral
dwelling older adults aged 65 and dental care and chronic illnesses such Qi hypothesises that this might be hygiene and increase their risk for
above are considered to be socially as diabetes and heart disease increase explained by the fact that lonely systemic inflammation.
Dr Wu concluded that the public
isolated in the US, and 43% of adults the risk of tooth loss and could people still have a strong support
aged over 60 years old report feeling eventually affect nutrition, speech and system that helps them to maintain health responses to COVID-19,
even self-esteem.
healthy behaviours.
including quarantine and social
lonely," he added.
Seeking to examine the topic of
distancing, have exacerbated the
The
fear
of
COVID-19
social isolation and loneliness in
problem of social isolation and will
infection
and
the
greater detail, the researchers analysed
have far-reaching consequences. She
data from the Chinese Longitudinal increased level of social stated: "The fear of COVID-19
isolation during the
Healthy Longevity Survey. A total of
infection and the increased level of
4,268 adults aged 65 and older
COVID-19 pandemic will social isolation during the COVIDcompleted a survey at three different have a significant impact 19 pandemic will have a significant
time points, namely in 2011-12, 2014
on people's oral health impact on people's oral health."
From left to right: Senior author Dr
and 2018. At baseline, 27.5% of the
The study, titled "Social isolation,
Bei Wu and first author Xiang Qi.
~Dr
Bei
Wu,
NYU
Meyers
study participants were socially
loneliness and accelerated tooth loss
(Image: Bei Wu)
isolated and 26.5% reported feeling
On considering the findings, the among Chinese older adults: A
According to the researchers, social lonely, and the researchers aimed to researchers noted that they are longitudinal study", was published
isolation and loneliness are two determine the number of teeth the relevant to countries beyond China online on 17 January 2022 in
different terms that cannot be used participants had and lost over the and highlighted the importance of Community Dentistry and Oral
developing interventions to reduce Epidemiology, ahead of inclusion in
interchangeably. Whereas social period.
After analysing the data, the social isolation. For example, they an issue.
isolation implies having few social
By Iveta Ramonaite
Dental Tribune International

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